Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment in Pasadena, CA
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. While it does not cause permanent damage to the digestive tract, it can significantly disrupt daily life with symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation. Because IBS is often linked to diet, stress, and gut health, treatment requires a personalized, whole-body approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine, a family medicine physician with expertise in integrative and functional medicine, looks beyond surface-level symptoms to identify underlying IBS, triggers such as food sensitivities, hormonal changes, and microbiome imbalances.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to play a role, including:
- Gut-Brain Interaction: Miscommunication between the brain and digestive system can alter bowel function.
- Food Sensitivities: Certain foods, such as dairy, caffeine, or high-fat meals, may trigger symptoms.
- Gut Microbiome Imbalances: Changes in healthy gut bacteria can contribute to inflammation and discomfort.
- Hormonal Fluctuations: IBS is more common in women, suggesting hormones may influence symptoms.
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional health strongly affects digestive function.
Recognizing these triggers allows for a more effective, individualized treatment plan.
Symptoms of IBS
IBS symptoms vary widely from person to person but often include:
- Abdominal cramping or discomfort
- Bloating and excess gas
- Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both
- Mucus in the stool
- Urgency to use the restroom
- Fatigue or low energy
How IBS Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation of each patient’s health history and symptoms. Diagnostic tools may include:
- Detailed Medical History: Reviewing symptom patterns, diet, and stress levels.
- Laboratory Testing: Checking for food sensitivities, infections, and nutritional deficiencies.
- Stool Tests: Identifying imbalances in gut bacteria or inflammation.
- Exclusion of Other Conditions: Ruling out celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or infections.
This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan customized to each patient.
Treatment Options for IBS
Because IBS has multiple potential triggers, treatment works best when it addresses the whole person. At Shine Health and Wellness, care may include:
- Dietary Counseling: Identifying trigger foods and developing meal plans such as low-FODMAP diets.
- Probiotics and Supplements: Supporting gut microbiome balance and digestive function.
- Stress Management: Incorporating mindfulness, relaxation techniques, or lifestyle changes to reduce flare-ups.
- Medications: When necessary, prescribing medications to reduce cramping, regulate bowel movements, or manage severe symptoms.
- Functional Medicine Approaches: Correcting nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, and systemic inflammation that may worsen IBS.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular check-ins to track progress and adjust treatment as needed.
This multi-faceted approach helps patients not only relieve symptoms but also strengthen long-term gut health.
The Role of Gut Health in IBS
Gut health is central to IBS. The balance of bacteria in the digestive system, known as the gut microbiome, affects digestion, immunity, and even mood. Disruptions in this balance can worsen IBS symptoms. At Shine Health and Wellness, treatment includes strategies to restore gut health, such as probiotics, dietary adjustments, and functional medicine testing, to help patients achieve better digestion and improved wellness.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, brings more than a decade of medical experience and a strong foundation in integrative and functional medicine. She believes in building trust and collaboration with her patients, taking time to listen and create care plans tailored to individual needs.
Patients also benefit from the Shine Health and Wellness team, which includes experienced nurses, a lifestyle coach, and a licensed acupuncturist. This multidisciplinary support ensures that patients receive well-rounded care, addressing not just IBS symptoms but their overall health and quality of life.
Find Relief From IBS Symptoms
IBS can be frustrating and disruptive, but with the right care, you can reduce symptoms and enjoy better digestive health. At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team provide comprehensive, personalized treatments. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.