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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Specialist

Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants Darrien Gaston, MD, FACP, FACG Our Services Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants

Darrien Gaston, MD, FACP, FACG

Gastroenterologist located in Beverly, Chicago, IL

Nearly one in five Americans suffer from constipation, bloating, and pain that’s caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). But with the proper treatment, relief is possible. Darrien Gaston, MD, FACP, FACG, has been helping patients overcome IBS symptoms for over two decades. Located in the Beverly area of Chicago, he and his team of experts at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants combine traditional treatments with new, innovative approaches to bring you the best care possible. Call today to schedule a consultation or book your appointment online.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Q & A

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that causes pain in the stomach area, as well as other gastrointestinal issues. It’s symptoms include:

  • Constipation
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Cramping

IBS can affect your regularity, and in some cases can cause mucus to form in your stool.

What causes IBS?

The cause of IBS is unknown, but there are a variety of factors and triggers that play a role and vary person to person.

For some, the natural contractions of the intestine walls become stronger and last longer, causing pain, gas, bloating, and diarrhea. In others, the muscles of these walls become weak and slow the food’s movement through the intestines, which leads to hard stools and constipation.

Abnormalities might also be present in your gastrointestinal system. They may cause poor communication between your brain and intestines, causing the systems to malfunction.

In some cases, your IBS may be triggered by a specific stimulus. While everyone responds to triggers differently, some of the most common include:

  • Foods
  • Stress
  • Hormones
  • Illnesses

How do you treat IBS?

While there isn’t a cure for IBS, it’s symptoms are treatable and depending on their severity, you may be able to treat them at home.

Dr. Gaston counsels you on the types of foods that may be causing your IBS and encourages you to avoid them. He may recommend eliminating processed foods and drinks from your diet, including:

  • Soda
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Sugary foods
  • Deep-fried foods

Instead, eat whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Complex carbohydrates and healthy fats are also essential to nourishing your body and fighting the symptoms of IBS.

To improve your digestive functioning, Dr. Gaston may also recommend pre or probiotics, which help balance your healthy gut enzymes.

When you’re tired of the bloating, gas, and pain associated with IBS, contact Dr. Gaston, who has a successful history of helping people overcome IBS symptoms. Call Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants, or book your appointment easily online today.

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