Integrative Medical Associates - Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Integrative Medical Associates - Primary Care . . . Naturallly

Integrative Medical Associates - Blending Natural Medicine and Conventional Therapies

Dr. Bruce Sadilek - 2009 Governor Appointee, 2008 Legacy Award & 2007 AZ Physician of the Year

	7468 N. La Cholla Blvd. Tucson, Arizona 85741 Phone: 520-297-9664 Fax: 520-297-9633
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The G.I. Blues

"I can no longer participate in consuming fun foods." "I feel bloated, distended and uncomfortable after eating." "Why can I not eat what I used to be able to eat years age?" These are all frequent questions asked by patients that suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

IBS is a fairly common complaint. Signs are distension, pencil-like stools, bloating, excessive flatulence and, at times, lower left quadrant pain. It is important that IBS be diagnosed and treated, as other disease processes can mimic IBS.

There are various opinions on IBS, stemming from psychogenic to food allergy and/or gastric insult. The gastro intestinal lumen, i.e. the lining, is rich in various chemical messengers and also plays a role in our immunology. Some of the same neuropeptides in the gut are also found within the brain; consequently, the psychogenic factor.

Diet. It is importatn to rule out food allergies. Perhaps the easiest way to start would be to eliminate gliadin-containing foods, i.e. wheat and cut back on diary products to see if that improves the symptoms. Further dietary control can be sought with a paleo diet or a specific carbohydrate diet.

Medications that can contribute to Irritable Bowel include NSAIDS, cold medications and certain antacids.

Botanicals/nutraceuticals and prescriptive medications; These all play an intricate role in helping relieve the signs and symptoms and even repairing the gastric mucosa. Excellent studies have been done on glutamine and essential fatty acid therapies. At times, mild digestive enzymes can also be a benefit. Some patients have gotten relief with a low dose prescriptive motility regulator.

Lifestyle. Extreme psychological stress for long periods of time seems to be one of the major culprits in IBS. At times biofeedback can be of great benefit to patients suffering from IBS, along with yoga and an exercise regime.

Diagnostics. It is important to rule out fungal, bacterial and/or yeast. Also, it is a good idea to have the immunology of the gut checked with an intestinal secretory IgA. Also, rule out endocrine problems and run a comprehensive metabolic panel.

If we can be of any further assistance, please feel free to contact our office.

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Disclaimer: Consult your primary care physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your symptoms or medical condition.