Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may be common but it is one of the most frustrating conditions to have. Other than the bloating and stomach cramps that comes with it, this condition can also cause unpredictable bowel habits.
Many people in Singapore suffer from IBS. The problem is that a big percentage of those who think that they have IBS are unsure where to seek help.
Some wonder if a colon doctor or a gastroenterologist is the right specialist for their symptoms. Read more: https://gastrohealth.com.sg/capsule-colonoscopy-in-singapore-what-is-it/.
If you’ve been experiencing ongoing digestive discomfort, you might have at least on one instance wondered: Can a colon doctor in Singapore treat IBS? The answer depends on your symptoms and medical history.
On this page, we’ll break down everything you need to know about IBS. Importantly, we will explain the role of colon doctors, and when to seek help. Let’s begin!
IBS is a disorder that affects how your digestive system works. Unlike diseases such as colon cancer or Crohn’s disease, IBS doesn’t cause permanent damage.
However, it can greatly impact daily life. People with IBS often experience:
IBS is classified as a functional gut disorder. This means that even though the digestive tract appears normal, it doesn’t function properly.
The exact cause of IBS is also unknown. However, it may be linked to stress, gut bacteria imbalances, or food intolerances.
Importantly, IBS is different from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis involve inflammation and long-term damage.
IBS, on the other hand, is a condition that affects how the gut moves and processes food. If you have ongoing gut issues, your best bet would be to seek professional help to get the right diagnosis.
A colon doctor is also known as a colorectal specialist. They primarily treats structural conditions of the colon.
These include polyps, hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, and colorectal cancer. IBS, however, is a functional disorder which means that it affects how the gut works rather than its physical structure.
A gastroenterologist is the specialist who usually diagnoses and manages IBS. Gastroenterologists focus on conditions which affect digestion, including acid reflux, ulcers, and IBS.
They provide medical treatments, lifestyle recommendations, and advanced diagnostic tests. That said, your colon doctor in Singapore may be involved in IBS cases where:
If you are unsure who to see, start with a gastroenterologist. They will assess whether you need further evaluation from a colorectal specialist.
Diagnosing IBS is a process of elimination. This is because there is no single test for IBS. That said, if it is suspected that you could be having IBS, your colon doctor in Singapore will want to rule out other conditions first. The diagnostic process usually includes:
Medical history review where your doctor will ask about symptoms, diet, and stress levels. They may then proceed with a physical examination where they will do a simple abdomen check to detect bloating or tenderness.
To rule out infections, food intolerances, or inflammation, they might order stool and blood tests. Colonoscopy might be recommended if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include blood in the stool.
A colonoscopy is a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon. It helps detect serious conditions like colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
If everything looks normal, IBS is likely the diagnosis. If you have long-term digestive issues, don’t self-diagnose. A doctor can determine whether your symptoms are IBS or something more serious.
IBS management focuses on reducing symptoms and improving gut health. There is no cure for IBS.
However, there are treatments that your colon doctor in Singapore may recommend to make symptoms more manageable. A colon doctor or gastroenterologist may recommend:
It’s important to follow a personalized treatment plan. What works for one person may not work for another. If symptoms persist, a specialist can adjust your treatment accordingly.
IBS symptoms can often be managed at home. However, you shouldn’t casually ignore this condition as it can wreak havoc on your life.
Here are some warning signs that indicate that you should seek medical help immediately. You should schedule an appointment with your colon doctor in Singapore for IBS if you experience:
These symptoms may suggest a more serious condition, such as colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. A colon doctor can run the necessary tests to rule them out.
Even if your symptoms are mild, seeing a specialist can help you get a diagnosis and relief faster. The sooner you act, the sooner you can improve your gut health.
IBS can be frustrating, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. If you have persistent gut issues, get the right diagnosis. It is essential.
Do you suspect that you have IBS which is disrupting your daily routine? book an appointment with a specialist today.
The right care can help you manage symptoms and regain control over your digestive health. See details below;
Gastrohealth Clinic @ Gleneagles - Dr Bhavesh Doshi | Gastroscopy | Colonoscopy | Health Screening | EUS and ERCP Singapore
6A Napier Rd, #05-35C Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block, Singapore 258500
Phone: +65 6355 5773