Lifestyle changes, diet play a crucial role for IBS patients: AGA guidelines

New treatment guidelines that wererecently released in Gastroenterology outline a personalized approach for treating patients with approved drug treatments for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).

We all know that irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common disorders of both intestines, affecting up to 35 million people Globally. The guidelines outline, for the first time, when to use newly introduced irritable bowel syndrome drugs, when to rely on old drugs approved by the FDA and when to use over-the-counter drugs. With more treatments available, physicians can tailor a personalized approach based on the symptoms a patient is experiencing.

Researchers advised to prioritize lifestyle modifications (including exercise, sleep, stress reduction) and dietary changes (such as increasing fiber) prior to seeking an irritable bowel syndrome specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, for advanced treatment options. When you do speak to a provider, be clear on your symptoms to help your doctor determine the medication that is right for you.

Therefore, the researchers concluded having so many treatment options, practitioners can now take a targeted treatment approach to patient symptoms. It's very important for patients to be open about their irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and just as important for gastroenterologists to set realistic expectations for this chronic disease to ensure the best quality of life for such patients.

Reference: AGA issues clinical guidelines outlining drug treatment plans for patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), AMERICAN GASTROENTEROLOGICAL ASSOCIATION Gastroenterology, 21-Jun-2022.