Understanding IBS Subtypes: IBS-D, IBS-C, and IBS-M Explained

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the digestive system. According to Dr. Vikram Jayanty and Dr. Julien Fahed, gastroenterologists in Houston, TX, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) creates abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits as its most notable symptoms.

IBS Subtypes

IBS isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. Based on the most predominant symptoms, the variations are categorized into subtypes – IBS-D, IBS-C, and IBS-M. While the condition doesn’t cause permanent damage to the intestines, variations of IBS can generate symptoms that negatively affect a person’s everyday life and emotional state. To complicate matters, symptoms may shift over time, so someone can experience different IBS subtypes.

Understanding IBS subtypes is critical to managing the condition effectively.

IBS-D 

IBS-D (in which the “D” refers to Diarrhea-Predominant IBS) creates frequent loose or watery stools, bloating or gas, and an overwhelming urgency to have a bowel movement – often with little/no warning.

Additionally, abdominal pain/cramping can be reduced after a bowel movement. This subtype can be triggered by –

• Stress/anxiety.
• Certain foods (dairy, high-fat meals, or artificial sweeteners).
• Altered gut motility (in this case, an increase in the speed at which food moves through the intestines).

Management strategies include dietary changes, anti-diarrheal drugs (loperamide), prescription medications, and stress management techniques like mindfulness and yoga.

IBS-C 

IBS-C (in which “C” refers to Constipation-Predominant IBS) creates symptoms that include infrequent, hard, or lumpy stools, straining during bowel movements, abdominal discomfort or bloating, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. IBS-C can be caused by –

• Delayed intestinal motility.
• Low fiber intake, dehydration.
• Hormonal changes, especially for women.

Management strategies include dietary adjustments such as increasing soluble fiber and staying hydrated, medications promoting bowel movements, and lifestyle changes (routine activity stimulating gut motility).

IBS-M 

IBS-M (in which “M” refers to Mixed IBS) causes diarrhea and constipation, with unpredictable bowel habits complicating symptom management. Abdominal pain and bloating are also common. IBS-M is caused by a combination of factors that impact gut sensitivity and motility, often triggered by manageable lifestyle factors like diet and stress.

Management strategies include a customized diet plan or elimination diets to identify triggers, medications, holistic techniques like stress management and probiotics, and proactively focusing on your gut-brain health.

Whether you have IBS-D (irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea), IBS-C (with constipation), or IBS-M (mixed type), working with a GI specialist can help tailor an approach to manage your specific symptoms. For more information, contact Dr. Jayanty and Dr. Fahed, gastroenterologists in Houston, TX, at 713-932-9200 or online.