🌿 Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) | Primary Care PCP Family Doctor Near Me Georgetown TX

Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
Nov 26, 2025
3 min read

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be frustrating — cramping, bloating, unpredictable bowel habits — but the good news is that it’s very manageable with the right guidance.

At Wellness Bay Primary Care, our Primary Care PCP and Family Doctor near Georgetown TX helps patients get real relief through gentle lifestyle changes, personalized treatment plans, and a supportive, judgment-free approach. 💚

🔎 What Causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

IBS is a functional digestive disorder, meaning the gut looks normal on tests, but its movements or sensitivity are altered.Common triggers include:

Stress or anxiety
Sensitive digestive tract
Certain foods (dairy, fried food, caffeine, spicy meals)
Hormonal changes
History of gastrointestinal infections
Irregular eating patterns

🌡️ Common Symptoms

IBS symptoms often come and go, and may include:

Abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating or gas
Diarrhea, constipation, or both
Urgent bowel movements
Feeling of incomplete emptying
Symptoms worsening with stress or certain foods

⚠️ Risk Factors

You are more likely to have IBS if you:

Are under chronic stress
Have anxiety or mood disorders
Are female
Have food intolerances
Have a family history of IBS
Have had prior intestinal infections

🧠 Pathophysiology (What’s Happening Inside) by Primary Care PCP Family Doctor Near Me Georgetown TX

IBS is related to gut–brain communication.The intestines may become overly sensitive or contract irregularly, leading to pain, cramping, diarrhea, or constipation.Stress, hormones, and certain foods can overstimulate the gut, causing flare-ups.

🌿 Lifestyle Tips for IBS Relief

Small consistent habits can significantly reduce symptoms:

🥗 Eat smaller, more frequent meals
🧘‍♀️ Manage stress with breathing exercises or meditation
🚶‍♀️ Exercise daily to improve digestion
💧 Stay hydrated
🥣 Try a low-FODMAP diet (temporary, guided by your doctor)
✍️ Keep a food diary to identify triggers
☕ Limit caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks

💊 Treatment Options

At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we tailor treatment to your specific symptoms and triggers:

Antispasmodic medications for cramping
Fiber supplements for constipation-predominant IBS
Probiotics to support healthy digestion
Anti-diarrheal medications (if needed)
Low-dose antidepressants for severe gut sensitivity
Dietary counseling to help identify food triggers

Natural supplements like peppermint oil or digestive enzymes may help — but only as supportive care and not a replacement for medical treatment.

💬 Top 10 FAQs About Irritable Bowel Syndrome

1. Is IBS dangerous?

No — it’s uncomfortable but not harmful to the intestines.

2. Can IBS be cured?

There’s no cure, but symptoms can be greatly reduced with proper care.

3. Can stress trigger IBS?

Yes — stress is one of the biggest triggers.

4. What foods make IBS worse?

Dairy, fried foods, caffeine, spicy foods, and certain high-FODMAP foods.

5. Is IBS the same as IBD?

No — IBD (like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis) causes inflammation. IBS does not.

6. Can IBS cause weight loss?

Typically no — if you’re having weight loss, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

7. Does fiber help?

Yes for some people, especially those with constipation-dominant IBS.

8. Can probiotics help?

Yes — they may support a healthier gut balance.

9. Can IBS cause nighttime symptoms?

Usually not — nighttime symptoms often need further medical evaluation.

10. When should I see a doctor?

If symptoms interfere with daily life or come with bleeding, fever, or significant weight loss.

👩‍⚕️ When to See a Doctor

If you’re tired of unpredictable symptoms or food-related anxiety, our primary care team can help.With a gentle, understanding approach, we work with you step-by-step to regain comfort and digestive balance. 🌿

💬 Let’s Keep You Healthy, Together

The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.

📍 Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX

📞 Call 512.588.7008 or📲 Book online

Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:

Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX