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Irritable Bowel Syndrome Constipation
Living with IBS-C means dealing with cramps, bloating, and difficult bowel movements. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott provides evaluations and tailored treatment plans-ranging from dietary adjustments and medications to advanced therapies-designed to restore regularity and improve quality of life.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C)?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder marked by hard stools, bloating, and abdominal pain. Symptoms tend to fluctuate and often improve after a bowel movement. The ICD-10 code for IBS-C is K58.3.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Stress or anxiety affecting gut function
Slow transit of stool through the colon
Diet high in fat or low in fiber
Family history of IBS
Female sex (women are affected twice as often as men)
Prior gut infections or inflammation
Signs and Symptoms
Fewer than three bowel movements per week
Hard, lumpy, or small stools
Abdominal cramps that ease after a bowel movement
Excess gas and bloating
Straining during bowel movements
Sensation of incomplete emptying
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He discusses your abdominal pain-especially epigastric discomfort-frequency and consistency of stools, bloating, relief after bowel movements, dietary habits, stress or anxiety levels, and family history of IBS.
Physical Exam
He palpates your abdomen to check for tenderness, distension, or palpable stool, focusing on both the epigastric area and lower quadrants.
Laboratory and Functional Tests
Blood Tests: CBC, metabolic panel, thyroid function to exclude other causes of pain and constipation.
Stool Studies: Culture and calprotectin to rule out infection or inflammatory bowel disease.
Rome IV Criteria: Evaluates pattern, duration, and relief of symptoms to confirm IBS-C diagnosis.
Endoscopic Evaluation (if indicated)
Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy is recommended for patients over 50 or those with alarm features such as rectal bleeding, unintentional weight loss, or a family history of colorectal cancer.
Additional Testing
Breath tests for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or carbohydrate malabsorption if bloating and epigastric pain persist despite initial therapy; imaging studies if structural issues are suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for IBS-C.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Slowly add fiber such as psyllium or wheat bran to your meals
Drink at least 8 cups of water each day
Eat small, balanced meals on a regular schedule
Exercise about 30 minutes most days of the week
Incorporate stress-relief practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between IBS and constipation?
IBS involves recurring belly pain or discomfort plus changes in bowel habits (hard or infrequent stools and bloating). Simple constipation is just infrequent or hard stools without significant pain.
How soon will I feel better?
Many patients notice improvement within 2 to 4 weeks after adjusting diet and adding fiber. Prescription medications can start working in just a few days.
Are long-term laxatives safe?
Osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol are safe when used as directed. You should avoid stimulant laxatives for prolonged periods to prevent dependence.
Can stress cause IBS-C symptoms?
Yes. Stress and anxiety can disrupt gut signaling, leading to increased cramps, bloating, and constipation episodes.
What is the ICD-10 code for IBS-C?
The ICD-10 code for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation is K58.3.
Do I need a colonoscopy?
Dr. Scott may recommend a colonoscopy if you're over age 50, have warning signs like rectal bleeding or unexplained weight loss, or a family history of colon cancer.
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