IBS Awareness Month

If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you are not alone – IBS is common with worldwide prevalence estimated at 9% to 23%. Although the condition is associated with heavy economic and social burdens, many people remain undiagnosed and unaware that their symptoms indicate a medically recognized disorder.
In an effort to bring attention to the symptoms and difficulties associated with irritable bowel syndrome, IFFGD has designated April as IBS Awareness Month. Beginning with the first IBS Awareness Month in April 1997, and every subsequent year, we work to focus attention on important health messages about IBS diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life issues. IBS Awareness Month is listed on the U.S. National Health Observances calendar.
IBS, which affects up to one in every five people, is characterized by chronic or recurring abdominal pain or discomfort associated with diarrhea, constipation or other changes in bowel patterns. It often can be diagnosed during a medical history and physical examination by its symptoms alone or along with limited testing.
There are many causes for abdominal pain, but in IBS, the pain or discomfort is persistent and is associated with a change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation. Bloating and feeling an urgent need to use a restroom also commonly occur. Symptoms may occur over a single long period or in several shorter bouts.
Anyone with persistent digestive problems should consult a doctor or other medical professional, Norton advises. A doctor will diagnose IBS by identifying symptoms typical of the disorder, and excluding other medical conditions that may have a similar clinical presentation. Personal embarrassment prohibits many people from taking this important step, however.
IBS is a multifaceted disorder and, while there is no known cure, it can usually be managed. But like other chronic diseases, managing irritable bowel syndrome is not easy. Effective management is often dependent on a successful patient-doctor relationship.
General Health Clinic encourages you to speak with your healthcare professional with questions or concerns about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The Clinic welcomes most major insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid. Payments by cash, credit cards, and debit cards are accepted. The clinic is located at the junction of highways 148 and JJ in Hopkins, Missouri. The clinic will be open Saturday, April 11 and closed on Saturday April 18 and Saturday, April 25. Appointments can be made by calling 660-778-3209.SOURCE: http://www.aboutibs.org/site/about-ibs/april-ibs-awareness-month