Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) — treatment in Lahore
Also known as: Spastic Colon · Irritable Colon · Functional Bowel Disorder · IBS-D · IBS-C · IBS-M
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional disorder of the gut that causes recurrent abdominal pain along with changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both), in the absence of any structural disease.
Overview
IBS is one of the most common reasons patients come to us — and one of the most undertreated. With diet adjustments, targeted medication, and time, most patients see meaningful improvement.
Signs & symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
If you recognize one or more of these, it may be worth a consultation:
- Abdominal pain or cramping linked to bowel movements
- Alternating constipation and diarrhea
- Bloating, gas, urgency
- Mucus in the stool
- Symptoms worsened by stress or specific foods
Causes & risk factors
Several factors can contribute to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Identifying yours guides the treatment plan.
- Disordered gut-brain communication (visceral hypersensitivity)
- Altered gut motility
- Post-infectious gut changes
- Food triggers (FODMAPs, lactose, gluten in some patients)
- Microbiome imbalance
- Anxiety, depression, life stress
- Genetic and family clustering
How Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is diagnosed
We order tests selectively — only what changes the plan.
- Clinical evaluation by Rome IV criteria
- Bloodwork to rule out other causes
- Colonoscopy when red-flag symptoms present
Treatment options
Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is personalized — the right plan depends on your symptoms, test results, and life situation.
- 1 Dietary modification (low-FODMAP under guidance, fiber adjustments)
- 2 Antispasmodics for cramping (hyoscine, mebeverine)
- 3 Targeted therapy: laxatives for IBS-C, loperamide for IBS-D, rifaximin for selected patients
- 4 Tricyclic antidepressants or SSRIs in low doses (neuromodulators)
- 5 Cognitive behavioural therapy and gut-directed hypnotherapy in resistant cases
IBS is a lifelong condition for most patients, but the majority achieve significant symptom control. The condition does not lead to bowel cancer or shorten life expectancy.
Can Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) be prevented?
Simple, evidence-based steps that reduce your risk.
- Eat regular meals and stay hydrated
- Identify and limit personal trigger foods
- Manage stress (exercise, sleep, breathing techniques)
- Limit caffeine and alcohol if they worsen symptoms
When should you see a doctor about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Reach out without delay if you notice any of the following.
- Symptoms over 3 months affecting daily life
- Blood in stool
- Unintended weight loss
- Family history of colorectal cancer or IBD
- Symptoms waking you at night
- Onset of symptoms after age 50
Frequently asked questions about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Is IBS a serious condition? +
IBS is uncomfortable and disruptive but not dangerous — it does not damage the bowel, increase cancer risk, or shorten life expectancy. It does, however, significantly affect quality of life if untreated.
How is IBS diagnosed? +
IBS is diagnosed clinically using the Rome IV criteria: recurrent abdominal pain at least once a week for 3 months, related to bowel movements or stool changes. Tests are done to exclude other causes, not to confirm IBS itself.
Will a low-FODMAP diet cure my IBS? +
It often improves symptoms significantly but is not a cure. The diet should be done in 3 phases (elimination → reintroduction → personalization) under guidance — long-term strict elimination is neither necessary nor advisable.
Can stress cause IBS? +
Stress does not cause IBS but is a major trigger. The gut-brain connection means anxiety and emotional stress amplify gut sensitivity in people who already have IBS.
Do probiotics help IBS? +
Evidence is mixed but some strains (particularly Bifidobacterium infantis and certain multi-strain products) help some patients, especially with bloating. We trial them in selected cases.
Related services
How we treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) at Javaid Poly Clinic.
Useful self-check tools
Free, evidence-based — try them before your visit.
Dr Usman Javaid
Gastroenterology & Medicine Diplomat · DIP (Gastro) UK · DIP (Hepatology) UK · DIP (Diabetes) UK · MCPS FM-TC · MPH · FRSPH (UK) · FRCP (Colombo) · Organ Transplant Advisor · CHPE (NUMS) · Preventive Medicine Specialist · Owner of Javaid Poly Clinic.
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Usman Javaid on . Content is updated when new evidence or guidelines emerge.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical consultation. If you have symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or any other condition, please book a consultation. In emergencies, call 1122 or visit your nearest emergency department.