Lake Norman Regional Medical Center
It’s not always easy to talk about, yet Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, affects more than 30 million people in the United States. Uncomfortable and often painful disorder, many of those who have, or may have, IBS, often suffer in silence and remain untreated.

There’s no need to suffer in silence anymore. April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Month and Lake Norman Regional Medical Center’s Senior Extra Program is urging you or your loved one to talk to your doctor about the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. The best way to identify if you have IBS is to visit with your doctor and discuss your symptoms.

IBS is a disorder that affects your colon. It commonly causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. It’s also a disorder that persists over time, so an open dialogue with a knowledgeable and empathetic physician is very important.

Here are a few tips for talking with your doctor about the pain and discomfort you may be experiencing:

• Tell your doctor about the symptoms you’re having and how frequently they occur.
• Inform your doctor of all other chronic illness affecting your health, or of prior infectious gastrointestinal illness.
• Provide your doctor with a list of prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any supplements you’re currently taking.

With the right treatment and care, it is important to note that your symptoms can be managed. For more information on IBS or other gastrointestinal disorders, visit www.IFFGD.org

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