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Irritable Bowel Syndrome / IBS Specialist

Colon and Rectal Surgery of Manhattan, P.C. -  - Colorectal Surgeon

Colon and Rectal Surgery of Manhattan, P.C.

Colorectal Surgeons & Proctologists located in Manhattan, New York, NY

For New York City, NY patients dealing with discomfort in the abdomen and chronic cramping or bloating, irritable bowel syndrome could be to blame. At Colon and Rectal Surgery of Manhattan, our doctors can provide an accurate diagnosis and reliable treatment from their conveniently located Murray Hill office.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome/IBS Q & A

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome, IBS, is a disorder of the intestines. It can create abdominal pain, cramping or bloating, and diarrhea and/or constipation. The symptoms can differ from day to day. The cause of the condition can be different for different people. IBS can be the result of issues with the way signals are sent between the digestive tract and the brain, problems digesting particular foods, and stress or anxiety. Those with IBS might also have uniquely sensitive intestines or problems with intestinal muscle movement. In some cases, particular foods, stress, hormonal changes, and certain antibiotics can trigger discomfort and symptoms. IBS is a chronic condition. However, there are many options at the practice which can help a person to find relief and get back to enjoying life.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

Symptoms can include:

  • Changes in bowel movement patterns
  • Bloating and surplus gas
  • Discomfort the lower abdomen
  • Mucus in the stool

A person is more likely to have the condition if these symptoms last at least six months, there is abdominal pain at least three days a month for at least three months, and if at least two of the following apply:

  • The discomfort is relieved by a bowel movement
  • The discomfort is connected to a change in how often there is a bowel movement
  • The discomfort is connected to a change in the consistency or appearance of the stool

Are there other indications of IBS?

Other symptoms which do not affect the intestines directly can be connected to IBS, including:

  • Fatigue
  • Backache
  • Headache
  • Anxiety or depression
  • An unpleasant taste in the mouth
  • Sleep problems, such as insomnia, not caused by symptoms
  • Sexual issues, including pain during sex, or reduced sexual desire
  • Heart palpitations, feeling as if the heart skips a beat or is fluttering
  • Urinary symptoms like the frequent or urgent need to urinate, difficulty starting the urine stream or difficulty emptying the bladder

Symptoms usually occur after eating, during times of stress, and during menstruation.

Accepted Insurance Plans

Our practice accepts most major insurance plans and most of the smaller insurance plans. If we do not participate with your insurance and your plan allows out of network benefits, our office staff will assist you with the necessary paperwork so you can receive reimbursement directly from your insurance company. If you do not see your insurance listed below, please call the office to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members about your individual coverage.

1199SEIU
AARP
BCBS
Cigna
Emblem Health (GHI and HIP)
Fidelis
Health First
Health Plus
MagnaCare
Medicare
Metroplus
Multiplan
Nippon Life
Oxford
United Health Care