Schedule Call Us Text Us

1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Experience personalized IBS care with Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs in Houston. Our board-certified gastroenterologist delivers evidence-based treatments, tailored dietary plans, stress management strategies, and advanced therapies designed to relieve pain, improve bowel function, and restore your quality of life.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here

Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. 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.

What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder that causes belly pain, bloating, gas and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation or both) without causing any structural damage to the intestines. The ICD-10 code for IBS is K58.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Disrupted communication between the brain and the gut
Abnormal intestinal motility (too fast or too slow transit)
Certain trigger foods (FODMAPs, caffeine, spicy foods, etc.)
Emotional stress, anxiety or past trauma
Family history of IBS

Signs and Symptoms

Abdominal pain or cramping relieved by a bowel movement
Bloating, gas or a feeling of fullness
Episodes of diarrhea, constipation or alternating between the two
Visible mucus in the stool
Urgent need to use the bathroom

Expert Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Symptom Review

He discusses your abdominal pain patterns, stool habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both), bloating triggers, diet, stress levels, and family history of IBS.

Physical Examination

He examines your abdomen for tenderness, distension, bowel sounds, and signs of other disorders.

Laboratory Testing

Blood work to rule out anemia, thyroid dysfunction, celiac disease, and inflammatory markers.
Stool studies to exclude infections, parasites, or signs of inflammation (calprotectin).

Imaging and Endoscopic Evaluation

Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to exclude gallbladder, liver, or pancreatic issues.
Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy if red-flag symptoms (weight loss, bleeding) are present, to rule out inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer.

Advanced Testing (If Needed)

Breath tests for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and specialized motility studies to assess how quickly or slowly your intestines move.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of IBS care.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips

Try a low-FODMAP diet to cut out foods that trigger your symptoms
Add soluble fiber like psyllium if you're often constipated
Eat smaller meals more frequently instead of large ones
Incorporate daily relaxation techniques-yoga, breathing exercises, or meditation-to manage stress

2. Medications We May Recommend

Antispasmodics to relieve stomach cramps
Laxatives or stool softeners for constipation
Anti-diarrheal agents to slow bowel movements
Low-dose antidepressants to ease pain and reduce gut hypersensitivity
Probiotics to support a healthy balance of gut bacteria

3. Advanced Therapies

Biofeedback therapy to improve bowel control
Botox injections for pelvic floor muscle tension in select cases
Neuromodulation techniques to calm an overactive gut

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 6K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

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

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 is the ICD-10 code for IBS?

The code is K58. It helps track and document IBS in medical records.

Can I treat IBS with over-the-counter medicine?

Yes, some OTC options can ease symptoms. Dr. Pothuri will recommend the safest, most effective choices for you.

Will eating more fiber help?

Soluble fiber often relieves constipation and bloating. Start slowly and monitor your response to find the right amount.

How do I find an IBS specialist in Houston?

Look for a board-certified gastroenterologist with extensive IBS experience. Dr. Pothuri at GastroDoxs meets these criteria.

Is IBS dangerous?

No. IBS doesn't harm your intestines or raise cancer risk, but it can impact your quality of life if unmanaged.

How soon will I feel better?

Many patients notice improvement within 4-6 weeks once the right combination of diet, lifestyle changes, and medication is in place.

Does stress make IBS worse?

Yes. Stress is a common trigger. Techniques like yoga, meditation, and biofeedback can help reduce flares.

Related Blogs