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Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed (IBS-M) brings unpredictable constipation and diarrhea, disrupting life and comfort. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers personalized assessments and targeted therapies—ranging from dietary strategies to advanced treatments—to help patients regain balance, confidence, and relief.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mixed (IBS-M) is a subtype of IBS characterized by alternating constipation and diarrhea.
Patients may pass hard, lumpy stools one day and loose, watery stools the next—often without warning.
This unpredictable pattern can lead to significant discomfort and disruption of daily activities.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Dysregulation of the gut-brain axis (impaired communication between the intestines and the brain)
Overactive nerves in the digestive tract
Trigger foods such as dairy products, high-fat meals, or artificial sweeteners
Emotional stress and anxiety
Family history of IBS
Hormonal fluctuations, especially during a woman's menstrual cycle
Signs and Symptoms
Alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation
Abdominal pain or cramping that often eases after a bowel movement
Bloating and excess gas
Presence of white or clear mucus in the stool
Sensation of incomplete evacuation despite urgency to go
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms, including patterns of epigastric pain, bowel habits, stress levels, diet, and family history of GI disorders.
Stool Tests
These help rule out infections, parasites, or inflammatory bowel disease as causes of your symptoms.
Blood Tests
We check for celiac disease, thyroid function, and markers of inflammation to exclude other conditions.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy is recommended if you're over 50 or have alarm features such as bleeding or unexplained weight loss.
Upper endoscopy (EGD) may be performed when epigastric pain is prominent, to examine the stomach and duodenum for ulcers or acid‐related disease.
Rome IV Symptom Checklist
A standardized questionnaire confirms the mixed IBS subtype by assessing recurring abdominal pain and alternating constipation and diarrhea.
Diet and Symptom Diary
Tracking meals, epigastric discomfort, and bowel movements over several weeks helps identify specific food triggers.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for IBS-Mixed (IBS-M).
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes IBS-M flare-ups?
Flare-ups often stem from stress, sudden diet changes, hormonal shifts, or certain trigger foods like dairy or artificial sweeteners.
How long until I feel better?
Most patients notice symptom relief within four to six weeks after starting diet adjustments, lifestyle changes, and any prescribed treatments.
Can exercise help with IBS-M?
Yes. Regular, gentle activities such as walking or yoga support digestion, reduce stress, and can lessen both constipation and diarrhea.
Are probiotics helpful for IBS-M?
Many patients benefit from probiotics. Dr. Nguyen can recommend specific strains and doses backed by research to improve your gut flora.
Do I need a colonoscopy?
Not always. A colonoscopy is generally advised if you're over 50 or have alarm symptoms such as rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or family history of colon cancer.
Will IBS-M last forever?
IBS-M is a chronic condition, but with the right diet, lifestyle changes, and medical support, symptoms can be well managed long term.
Can I still enjoy eating out in Houston?
Absolutely. Once you identify your food triggers, Dr. Nguyen will help you create a flexible meal plan so you can dine out with confidence.
