PROFESSIONAL FAQS: WHAT HAPPENS IF I LEAVE MY IBS UNTREATED?

Expert opinion from Shobha S Reddy

MBBS, Masters in Diabetology, General Practitioner & Diabetologist · 15 years of experience · India

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include abdominal pain, gaseous discomfort, bloating, abdominal cramps, constipation or diarrhea, or both, It is a chronic condition that has to be managed long term. Some people try to control symptoms with diet, lifestyle, and stress management. Severe symptoms to be managed with counseling and medication. If IBS is left untreated, it can cause hemorrhoids, anal fissures. It can lead to poor quality of life and mood disorders. It does not cause colon cancer or IBD.

Expert opinion from Gustavo Campos

Doctor of Medicine · 9 years of experience · Brazil

Irritable bowel syndrome can get better on its own. However, if not treated and symptomatic, patients may have loss of quality of life. Patients may experience diarrhea, cramping, constipation. Because of those symptoms, they also might have hemorrhoids, insomnia, depression and anxiety.

→ Learn more about irritable bowel syndrome: See the causes, symptoms, treatment options and more.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to irritable bowel syndrome.

Expert opinion from Ipsa Arora

MD (Internal Medicine) · 5 years of experience · USA

Leaving IBS untreated will promote the persistence of its symptoms. This will result to pain and discomfort.

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Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.

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