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Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed

At Cypress GastroDoxs, our team provides personalized care for mixed irritable bowel syndrome, combining tailored nutrition plans, advanced diagnostic tools, and expert gastrointestinal support to help Cypress residents find lasting relief and improved digestive health right here in our community.

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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed (IBS-M) is a subtype of IBS where you experience both constipation and diarrhea. It combines features of IBS-C (constipation) and IBS-D (diarrhea), with stools often shifting from hard to loose within the same week. The ICD-10 code for IBS-M is K58.2.

Common Symptoms

Most people with IBS-M experience a mix of symptoms, including:

  • Belly cramps that improve after a bowel movement
  • Alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation
  • Gas or bloating
  • A strong urge to go but still needing to strain
  • Visible mucus in the stool

Causes

While the exact cause of IBS-M is unknown, several factors may contribute:

  • Miscommunication between the gut and the brain
  • Food intolerances, such as FODMAPs or gluten
  • Alterations in gut bacteria
  • Stress or anxiety
  • History of gastrointestinal infections
Treatment

Treatment Options for IBS-M in Cypress

Treatment includes dietary changes, medications, and mind-body support:

  • Food diary: Track meals and symptoms to identify and avoid personal triggers.
  • Low-FODMAP diet: Follow an elimination and reintroduction plan under expert guidance to reduce fermentable carbs.
  • Fiber supplements: Use soluble fiber (psyllium) to help normalize stool consistency and ease constipation.
  • Antidiarrheal medications: Loperamide or similar agents can control loose stools and reduce urgency.
  • Antispasmodics: Medications like dicyclomine or hyoscyamine relieve cramps and abdominal pain.
  • Probiotics: Specific strains (e.g., Bifidobacterium infantis, Lactobacillus plantarum) may restore gut balance and reduce bloating.
  • Low-dose antidepressants: Tricyclics or SSRIs can modulate pain signals in the gut-brain axis.
  • Stress management: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, meditation, yoga, and gentle exercise support digestion and reduce symptom flares.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive digestive health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for Mixed IBS. Our compassionate, personalized approach ensures you receive a customized care plan that addresses your unique symptoms and lifestyle. Book your appointment today-online or by phone at (832) 632-4070-and take the first step toward long-term relief and a better quality of life.

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Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 2k patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

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Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes IBS "mixed"?

IBS-M (mixed) involves both constipation and diarrhea, with stool consistency or frequency shifting unpredictably from one day to the next.

How long do IBS-M symptoms last?

Symptoms can occur in cycles, lasting from a few days to several weeks. They may improve temporarily and then recur, often influenced by diet, stress, or other triggers.

Can diet help manage IBS-M?

Yes. Many people find relief by following a low-FODMAP or elimination diet under professional guidance. Keeping a food diary also helps identify individual trigger foods.

What tests are used to diagnose IBS-M?

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and stool studies to rule out infections or inflammation. In some cases, a colonoscopy or imaging may be recommended to exclude other conditions.

Do probiotics help with IBS-M?

Certain probiotic strains can improve gut flora balance and reduce IBS symptoms. A gastroenterologist or dietitian can recommend the most effective types and dosages.

Is stress a trigger for IBS-M?

Yes. Stress and anxiety can alter gut-brain communication and intestinal motility, often worsening both constipation and diarrhea in IBS-M patients.

Is there a cure for IBS-M?

There is no permanent cure, but many individuals achieve long-term symptom control through a combination of dietary changes, medications, and mind-body therapies.

How quickly can treatment for IBS-M work?

Response times vary. Some patients notice improvement within a few weeks of starting diet modifications or medications, while others may need several months to find the optimal plan.

Should I see a doctor if my IBS-M symptoms are mild?

Yes. Early evaluation by a specialist helps rule out serious conditions and can prevent worsening symptoms. Proactive management often leads to better outcomes.

Are telehealth visits available for IBS-M care?

Absolutely. GastroDoxs offers both virtual and in-office appointments, making it easy to get expert advice, ongoing support, and personalized treatment plans from home or work.

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