Irritable Bowel Syndrome Specialist
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Todd B. Linden, MD, FACP
Gastroenterologist & Internist located in Soho, New York, NY
Irritable bowel syndrome affects 3%-20% of American adults. Finding relief is important in maintaining your normal daily routines. At Todd B. Linden MD FACP in Soho, Manhattan, Dr. Lindon offers treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. If you or a loved one is experiencing digestive troubles or abdominal pain, book a one-on-one diagnostic evaluation today. Online scheduling is available, or you’re always welcome to call his New York City office to set up your visit.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Q & A
What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a collection of intestinal symptoms that often occur at the same time. It’s also referred to as irritable colon, mucuous colon, spastic colon, and spastic colitis. Having irritable bowel syndrome does not increase your risk of developing gastrointestinal cancer.
That said, the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are shared among several other health conditions, some of which can be very serious. Determining the cause of your symptoms is an important part of staying as healthy as possible.
What are some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
Some of the things that might suggest you have irritable bowel syndrome include:
- Abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
It’s possible to have alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea within a short span of time. Bowel motility and other symptoms might also resolve only to return again hours or even days later.
How is irritable bowel syndrome diagnosed?
Dr. Linden begins with an in-depth discussion about your symptoms and overall health. He asks details about your diet and the context in which symptoms arise and abate.
You might be asked to submit blood or stool samples to learn more about how your digestive system is functioning.
A colonoscopy, which is a test that projects images of the lining of your colon, may be needed to check for signs of serious medical conditions like colon cancer or Crohn’s disease.
Is there a cure for irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition for which there is no cure. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms to give you more control over your daily life.
Changing your diet is a great place to begin. Dr. Linden can guide you toward a diet plan that is right for you.
You might need to eat a very restricted diet for a few weeks to determine which foods cause your IBS to flare up. Over time, you’ll add new foods and check to see how your body responds.
There are also medications that can help. Some drugs work to improve constipation, others focus on easing pain, preventing infection, or controlling muscle spasms. It may take a period of trial and error to find the treatment path best suited to your needs.
When you’re ready to begin, call or schedule a visit with Dr. Linden online.
