If you live in Houston and you’ve ever wondered, “What does irritable bowel syndrome feel like?” or searched for “early signs you may have irritable bowel syndrome,” this guide is for you. At Gastrodoxs, we know how confusing digestive troubles can be. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, our Houston-based gastroenterologist, shares expert tips to help you spot common symptoms early—and know when to seek help.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gut disorder that affects the large intestine. It can cause discomfort, irregular bowel habits, and changes in stool. While IBS does not lead to serious disease, it can lower your quality of life if left unmanaged.
“IBS is a functional disorder,” explains Dr. Bharat Pothuri. “That means your gut looks normal under a scope, but it reacts too strongly to everyday triggers like food or stress.”
For a deeper look, the National Institutes of Health offers a solid overview of IBS causes and treatments.
Understanding the “difference between IBS and other digestive issues” helps you get the right care. Here’s a simple table to compare IBS with some common conditions:
| Feature | IBS | IBD (Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis) | Celiac Disease | Lactose Intolerance |
| Inflammation | None | Yes (visible inflammation in GI tract) | Yes (autoimmune damage) | No |
| Blood in Stool | Rare | Common | Rare | No |
| Weight Loss | Uncommon | Often significant | Possible | Rare |
| Trigger Foods | Various (fatty, spicy, dairy) | Various (high-fiber, dairy, caffeine) | Gluten | Dairy |
| Diagnosis | Symptom-based + rule out other causes | Endoscopy + biopsy | Blood tests + biopsy | Hydrogen breath test |
| Treatment | Diet, stress management, meds | Anti-inflammatory drugs | Gluten-free diet | Lactose-free diet |
By spotting the right signs, you avoid misdiagnosis and find relief sooner.
Below are “common symptoms of IBS you shouldn’t ignore.” If you tick several boxes for more than three months, talk to your doctor.
Dr. Pothuri says, “Abdominal pain that comes and goes with bowel habits is one of the earliest signs you may have irritable bowel syndrome.”
If your pants feel tight by evening, note when it happens and what you ate.
Tracking stool form on a simple scale can help your doctor diagnose your type.
“Stress can tighten gut muscles,” notes Dr. Pothuri. “Learning to manage it is key for many Houston patients.”
When IBS keeps you up, you might see a clear connection between gut health and rest.
Over a few weeks, you’ll see what triggers your IBS the most.
If you notice any of these, please book an appointment with a GI specialist like Dr. Pothuri at Gastrodoxs:
Authoritative sources recommend evaluation if basic diet and stress fixes don’t help. Mayo Clinic’s IBS guidelines offer more on when to seek medical care.
Spotting “common symptoms of IBS you shouldn’t ignore” can save you months of discomfort. Remember, Dr. Bharat Pothuri at Gastrodoxs in Houston is here to help you figure out what does irritable bowel syndrome feel like—and guide you toward relief. Track your symptoms, mind your triggers, and reach out for medical advice if things don’t improve.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Early signs include recurring abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and bloating.
Stress may trigger symptoms but doesn’t cause IBS by itself. Gut sensitivity and motility changes also play roles.
Symptoms can come and go. Some people have daily issues; others flare up only now and then.
IBS isn’t life-threatening, but it can affect your quality of life if left untreated.
Fatty foods, caffeine, gas-forming vegetables, and dairy are common triggers. However, each person’s triggers can differ.
Yes. Regular, moderate exercise can ease cramps, reduce stress, and promote healthy bowel movements.
Doctors use symptom criteria, rule out other conditions through tests, and may order blood, stool, or imaging studies.
Yes. Options include fiber supplements, antispasmodics, laxatives, or anti-diarrheal drugs—always under a doctor’s guidance.
It can. The brain-gut connection means anxiety and depression sometimes accompany IBS.
Check the NIH’s IBS fact sheet or the Mayo Clinic’s IBS web page for trusted, up-to-date information.
