Irritable Bowel Syndrome Dr. Pedro de María Pallarés
Specialized diagnosis and treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with comprehensive approach: FODMAP diet (in selected cases), lifestyle, pharmacological treatment and personalized follow-up
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits, without any identifiable structural lesion.
Prevalence
Affects 10-15% of the global population
Gender
More frequent in women (2:1)
Age
Typical onset between 20-30 years
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Main Symptoms
Abdominal Pain
Cramps or dull pain, usually in lower abdomen
Changes in Bowel Habits
Diarrhea, constipation or alternating between both
Abdominal Distension
Bloating and feeling of fullness
Excessive Gas
Frequent flatulence and gas
Associated Symptoms
Causes and Triggering Factors
Dietary Factors
- • Foods high in FODMAPs
- • Large meals
- • Alcohol and caffeine
- • Processed foods
- • Lactose and gluten
Psychological Factors
- • Chronic stress
- • Anxiety
- • Depression
- • Sleep disorders
- • Emotional changes
Biological Factors
- • Microbiota alteration
- • Visceral hypersensitivity
- • Altered intestinal motility
- • Low-grade inflammation
- • Genetic predisposition
IBS Treatment Options
Dietary Treatment
FODMAP Diet
Temporary restriction of fermentable carbohydrates
Foods to avoid:
- • Onion, garlic, leek
- • Apple, pear, mango
- • Wheat, rye, barley
- • Legumes
- • Lactose-containing dairy
Allowed foods:
- • Rice, quinoa, oats
- • Banana, strawberries, orange
- • Chicken, fish, eggs
- • Carrot, zucchini
- • Lactose-free dairy
Pharmacological Treatment
According to Symptoms
Personalized medication according to IBS type
IBS with Diarrhea:
Loperamide, Rifaximin, Eluxadoline
IBS with Constipation:
Linaclotide, Lubiprostone, Fiber
Abdominal Pain:
Antispasmodics, Mebeverine
Probiotics:
Specific strains to balance microbiota
Psychological Treatment
Gut-Brain Axis
Comprehensive mind-body approach
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy:
Modification of thoughts and behaviors
Relaxation Techniques:
Mindfulness, meditation, breathing
Stress Management:
Coping strategies
Hypnotherapy:
Specific technique for IBS
When to Consult a Specialist?
Alarm Symptoms - Urgent Consultation
- • Unexplained weight loss
- • Blood in stools
- • Persistent fever
- • Anemia
- • Onset after age 50
- • Family history of cancer
- • Sudden change in symptoms
- • Intense nighttime pain
Recommended Consultation
- • Persistent symptoms > 3 months
- • Impact on quality of life
- • Previous treatment failures
- • Need for differential diagnosis
- • Questions about dietary management
Benefits of Specialized Consultation
- • Accurate differential diagnosis
- • Personalized treatment plan
- • FODMAP diet education
- • Specialized follow-up
- • Access to latest treatments
Specialized IBS Consultation in Madrid
Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Private Consultation INMEQ
Instituto Médico Quirúrgico
Calle Marcenado 49
28002 Madrid
What does the consultation include?
- • Complete medical history
- • Rome IV criteria evaluation
- • Personalized dietary plan
- • Treatment prescription
- • Specialized follow-up
Consultation Price
In-person consultation
Video call available
IBS Patient Testimonial
"I had been suffering with abdominal pain and constant changes in my digestion for years. Dr. Pedro de María explained everything about IBS very clearly and referred me to a nutritionist for the FODMAP diet. In 3 months my symptoms improved tremendously. I could finally return to normal life again."
- Carmen M.
IBS Patient - INMEQ Madrid
Frequently Asked Questions about Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome have a cure?
IBS is a chronic disorder, but with appropriate treatment, symptoms can be controlled very well and quality of life can be significantly improved. The combination of FODMAP diet, personalized medication, and stress management offers excellent results.
How long does it take for the FODMAP diet to take effect?
Most patients notice improvement in the first 2-4 weeks of strictly following the FODMAP diet. It is important to follow it under medical and nutritional supervision to ensure a balanced diet and adequate food reintroduction.
Can IBS become something more serious?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome does not increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. However, it is important to maintain regular medical follow-up to confirm the diagnosis and adjust treatment according to evolution.
What tests are needed to diagnose IBS?
IBS diagnosis is based mainly on clinical criteria (Rome IV). Some tests may be necessary to rule out other diseases: complete blood work, fecal calprotectin, and in selected cases colonoscopy or gastroscopy. There is no specific test to diagnose IBS.
Does stress really worsen Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Yes, there is a clear relationship between stress and IBS through the gut-brain axis. Stress can trigger or worsen symptoms. That's why stress management techniques, relaxation, and in some cases psychological support form an integral part of treatment.
Specialized Consultation for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment and specialized follow-up to improve your quality of life
INMEQ - Calle Marcenado 49, 28002 Madrid | TopDoctors Award 2024