What is the primary treatment recommended for irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, which may include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating episodes of both. The primary treatment approach for IBS focuses on dietary modifications because the condition often involves sensitivities to certain foods and dietary patterns that can exacerbate symptoms.

Diet modifications can help identify and eliminate triggers that aggravate IBS symptoms. Common recommendations include following a low FODMAP diet, which reduces fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols—short-chain carbohydrates that can lead to symptoms in sensitive individuals. Other dietary adjustments might include increasing fiber intake, maintaining adequate hydration, and avoiding high-fat foods or artificial sweeteners that can provoke symptoms.

While medications and probiotics can play a role in managing specific symptoms of IBS, particularly when dietary changes alone are insufficient, they are generally considered adjuncts to the primary approach of dietary modification. Surgery is not a treatment option for IBS as it does not address the underlying functional nature of the disorder. Thus, dietary modifications are essential for effectively managing and improving symptoms in most patients with IBS.