Personalized Relief From Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Its Symptoms
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common, long-term disorder that affects how the gut works. It causes recurring abdominal pain along with changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or both. IBS does not damage the bowel or lead to cancer, but its symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life.
The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it involves several factors: oversensitive gut nerves, abnormal muscle contractions, changes in gut bacteria, and the gut-brain connection. Stress, certain foods, and hormonal changes can all trigger or worsen symptoms.
IBS symptoms include abdominal pain or cramping, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits. Doctors classify it by the main pattern: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), or mixed (IBS-M). Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, warning signs like rectal bleeding, weight loss, or anemia should always be evaluated to rule out something more serious.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, diet, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Diagnostic evaluation may include:
Comprehensive Medical History
Understanding symptom patterns often provides valuable clues.
Blood Testing
Laboratory studies may help identify:
H. pylori Testing
Testing may be recommended when stomach-related symptoms are present.
SIBO Breath Testing
Used to evaluate bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine.
Colonoscopy
May be recommended depending on age, symptoms, family history, and risk factors.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Can help evaluate reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and upper digestive tract disorders.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
IBS is not dangerous and does not damage the bowel or cause cancer, but its symptoms can significantly affect daily life. The good news is that it is very manageable.
Common triggers include certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, and changes in gut bacteria. Triggers vary from person to person.
Many people improve on a low-FODMAP diet, which limits certain fermentable carbs. Common triggers include dairy, beans, onions, and artificial sweeteners.
No. IBS affects how the gut works but does not cause inflammation or damage. IBD, such as Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis, causes inflammation and needs different treatment.
IBS is a long-term condition, but its symptoms can be very well controlled with the right diet, lifestyle changes, and medications, so most people feel much better.
Sometimes. A colonoscopy may be recommended to rule out other conditions, especially if you have warning signs or are over 45.
IBS treatment is highly personalized and focuses on relieving your specific symptoms. After understanding your pattern and triggers, your gastroenterologist builds a plan that may include:
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” for IBS, but symptoms can be very well controlled. See a gastroenterologist if you have warning signs like bleeding, weight loss, or anemia. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we focus on practical, lasting solutions. To help manage IBS:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
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