Is your life controlled by your intestinal tract with problems such as constipation, diarrhoea,
bloating, flatulence and cramps?

Investigations

You have probably had numerous investigations carried out, only to be told there is nothing seriously wrong - you only have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)!  IBS is thought to affect as many as one in five people at some time in their lives and women are twice as likely to suffer as men. IBS can affect all age groups from the infant who cries with colic to the elderly. It can range in severity from a temporary interruption in the otherwise normal life, to a condition which is extremely debilitating. Those who suffer from it find it dominates their lives and can wreak havoc with work and social commitments.

Food Sensitivities

Many sufferers of IBS are told to increase the amount of fibre in their diet. Although this
does improve symptoms for some, many have experienced a worsening of symptoms which
could be linked to food sensitivities – regular ingestion of an allergen can cause chronic
inflammation of the bowel and swelling of the abdomen, with attempts by the bowel to expel
its contents as quickly as possible. This can result in griping pains and diarrhoea. The
resulting impairment of digestion and assimilation can lead to fermentation of food by
intestinal bacteria and subsequent gas formation. Alleviating SymptomsIBS may be helped by avoidance of specific foods which may be causing an allergic response. Addition of certain nutritional supplements can help to alleviate some of the symptoms of IBS.

Laboratory Tests

Other causes of IBS are parasitic infestations, candida overgrowth or bacterial infection and
maldigestion problems. Carrying out a Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis from can identify all these. I organise this test as part of your consultation (additional costs involved). 

If you are an IBS sufferer please contact the Fulham medical centre to book an appointment with me on 0207 3856001.