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Re: weight loss and irritable bowel with Gerd

From: S. Carvajal, M.D.
Date: 05/16/00
Time: 00:03:17

Comments

Because GERD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are both so common, many patients will have both problems. IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion and can only be made when all other problems are dealt with. Fortunately, GERD can be precisely diagnosed by use of a 24 pH test. The symptoms of GERD and IBS may be similar. Many patients, when tested, actually do not have GERD but have IBS. Decreasing the amount of food you eat will improve the symptoms of both problems. For patients who are obese, losing weight is advisable. On the other hand, decreasing calories in patients who are thin is not advisable. Rather, I would recommend either medical or surgical treatment of the GERD after appropriate diagnostic tests followed by medications for the IBS if symptoms persist.

Last changed: January 12, 2008