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Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be incredibly challenging. The unpredictable symptoms, like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, can disrupt your daily life and leave you feeling frustrated and discouraged. But there’s hope. At Five Journeys, a functional medicine clinic in Boston and Newton, we understand the complexities of IBS and offer personalized IBS treatment plans designed to help you regain control of your health and well-being. Our holistic approach focuses on identifying the root causes of your IBS symptoms, not just masking them, so you can experience lasting relief.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic disorder that affects the large intestine. It’s characterized by uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms that vary from person to person. While IBS doesn’t cause permanent damage to the digestive system, it can significantly impact your quality of life. If you’re experiencing persistent digestive issues, seeking professional help is important. While there’s no single natural cure for IBS, our functional medicine approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of your symptoms to provide long-term relief and improve your overall well-being.

How Does IBS Impact Daily Life?

Living with IBS can significantly impact your daily life, affecting your work, social activities, and emotional well-being. The unpredictable nature of symptoms can make it difficult to plan activities and even lead to feelings of anxiety and isolation. Research indicates that individuals with IBS often experience other functional disorders, highlighting the complex nature of this condition. Our holistic approach to IBS disease treatment at Five Journeys addresses both the physical symptoms and the emotional impact of IBS, using a holistic approach to help you regain control of your life.

Symptoms of IBS

IBS manifests differently in each individual, but some common symptoms include:

Abdominal Pain or Cramping

One of the hallmarks of IBS is abdominal pain or cramping, often relieved by having a bowel movement. This discomfort can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by feelings of pressure or fullness in the abdomen.

Bloating and Excessive Gas

Bloating is a common complaint among those with IBS. It often occurs after meals and can cause significant discomfort and self-consciousness. Excessive gas is another frequent symptom, leading to embarrassing situations and further discomfort.

Diarrhea

For some people with IBS, diarrhea is a predominant symptom. This can involve loose, watery stools and an urgent need to use the bathroom, often disrupting daily routines and causing anxiety.

Constipation

Others with IBS experience constipation, characterized by infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, and difficulty passing stools. This can lead to strain, discomfort, and feelings of incomplete evacuation.

Changes in Bowel Movements

IBS can cause fluctuations in bowel habits, with periods of diarrhea alternating with constipation. The appearance of stool can also vary, sometimes containing mucus.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a common complaint among people with IBS, often linked to poor sleep quality, nutritional deficiencies, and the chronic stress of managing the condition.

Interested in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment? Ask your provider or book a call with us!

Causes and Risk Factors of IBS

While the exact causes of IBS are unknown, several factors are believed to play a role in triggering symptoms and influencing their severity. These factors often intertwine, making a holistic approach to natural IBS treatment crucial for long-term relief. Some key areas of focus include:

  • Gut motility: Problems with the muscle contractions in the intestines can lead to either diarrhea or constipation.
  • Gut sensitivity: People with IBS may have a heightened sensitivity to pain in their gut, leading to increased discomfort from gas and bloating.
  • Gut-brain axis: The connection between the gut and the brain is significant, and stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors can influence IBS symptoms.
  • Gut microbiome: An imbalance in the gut bacteria can contribute to IBS symptoms.

 

Certain risk factors may increase your likelihood of developing IBS, such as:

  • Family history of IBS
  • History of significant stress or trauma
  • Gastrointestinal infections
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment

Our Approach to IBS Disease Treatment

At Five Journeys, a leading IBS treatment center in Boston and Newton, we believe in a personalized and holistic approach to IBS disease treatment. We understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and we take the time to understand your unique symptoms, health history, and lifestyle factors. A recent study shows that the diagnosis of IBS often relies heavily on a careful medical history and a strong patient-doctor relationship. Our functional medicine approach aligns with this by prioritizing open communication and individualized care, focusing on identifying the root causes of your IBS, not just managing symptoms, offering a natural treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. We utilize a variety of therapies and modalities to create a customized treatment for IBS plans, including:
  • Dietary modifications: We’ll work with you to identify food sensitivities and develop an individualized dietary plan that supports your gut health.
  • Gut microbiome testing: This testing can help us identify imbalances in your gut bacteria and guide targeted treatments.
  • Stress management techniques: We’ll provide you with tools and techniques to manage stress and improve your overall well-being, which can significantly impact IBS symptoms.

Why Improve Your Health with Five Journeys?

At Five Journeys, we’re committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Our team of experienced practitioners will guide you on your journey to better health, providing support and education every step of the way. We believe in empowering our patients to take control of their health and well-being. With our comprehensive IBS treatment, you can find lasting relief from your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Holistic Approach

At Five Journeys, we recognize that true wellness encompasses more than just physical health. We take a holistic approach that considers all aspects of your well-being, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

Personalized Care

We understand that each individual is unique, and their health needs are different. That's why we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're seeking preventive care, managing chronic conditions, or optimizing your overall health, we provide personalized solutions that prioritize your well-being.

IBS can be a challenging condition to live with, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. At Five Journeys, we offer hope and support. Our personalized IBS treatment plans address the root causes of your symptoms, empowering you to regain control of your health and live a fulfilling life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find relief from IBS and embark on your journey to optimal health and wellness.

*Massachusetts law does not allow us to accept MassHealth & Medicaid. Other exceptions may apply.

Why we do, What we do...

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is comprehensive testing for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, helping clinicians accurately diagnose and treat these complex infections. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood, Urine, or Ticks

COST

may have a $200 copay

INSURANCE

Covered by most insurance.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Galleri® is a multi-cancer early detection test, a blood test that screens for many of the deadliest cancers before they become symptomatic,1,2,3 including those with no recommended screening tests today. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home or in lab.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$999

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

3 x 4 Genetics DNA Test

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This DNA test analyzes a person’s genetic markers to provide insights into their health and wellness price. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Swab

COST

$299

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is a key tool for assessing the impact of long-term exposure to environmental chemicals. By quantitatively measuring 14 select metabolites, this test helps determine an individual’s toxic burden, offering essential data to guide targeted nutritional and detoxification interventions for improved health outcomes. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$129

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

The Hormone and Urinary Metabolites Assessment Profile (HuMapTM) provides a comprehensive overview of steroid hormones, their metabolites, and the efficiency of the enzymes that metabolize these hormones. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$199

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a dried urine test for comprehensive hormones to help providers solve complex patient cases. DUTCH is a group of validated tests that provide a complete evaluation of sex and adrenal hormones, including metabolites. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$300

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive stool test that relies on quantitative polymerase chain
reaction (qPCR) technology to detect parasites, bacteria, H. pylori, fungi, and more by targeting the specific DNA of the organisms tested. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$399

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive test that uses blood and urine to evaluate over 125 biomarkers. It provides recommendations for vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and digestive support. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood and Urine

COST

$179 – $439

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Genova’s SIBO Profiles are non-invasive breath tests which capture exhaled hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) gases following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution to evaluate bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Breath

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

COST

$85-$225 depending on insurance coverage. 

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RealTime

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At Home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$699

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. Repeat test prices $249

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Nordic-Labratories

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the genetic profile for multiple health indicators. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood Spot

COST

$319

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

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IGX

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This company can test for lyme, babesia, bartonella and additional tick-borne illnesses. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

around $1600 (depends on panel selected)

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. May be reimbursed with PPO plans.
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Great-Plains

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$310

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
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Alletess

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates a wide range of environmental toxins that may be leading to harmful health effects.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$199

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins.
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Quest

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Blood work for blood count, urinalysis and vitamin levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

NOTES

You often have to fast for these tests-please check your providers notes.

COST

Depending on the test, deductible or copay may apply.

INSURANCE

Depends on insurance coverage, deductible or copay may apply.
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Great-Plains

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$99 ($69 if performed with mycotoxins or environmental toxins).

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins or GPL Tox.
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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates many measures including micronutrients, antioxidants, minerals, detox, overview of gut function, omegas and toxic exposure. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$150 – $329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the gut function and indicates microbiome balance, overgrowth, infection, inflammation, parasites and digestive efficacy. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$179-$439 depending on insurance coverage.

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

No probiotics for one week.

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the full menstrual cycle, female hormones, and adrenal profile.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

COST

$160-$329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

NOTES

Must be off hormones in order to do the testing.
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Galaxy

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is specifically for a tick-borne illness called “Bartonella”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

COST

$260

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
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Doctors-Data

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of potentially harmful heavy metals stored in the body.  Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

Testing: $79 x2 paid to Doctor’s Data
DMSA: $38 paid to Johnson’s Compounding Pharmacy

INSURANCE

Not covered by Insurance
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DiagnosTechs

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test measures saliva cortisol testing throughout the course of one day and informs us where there might be an adrenal imbalance.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Saliva

COST

$80

INSURANCE

No insurance coverage

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Alletess

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is designed to look at food sensitivities (IgG immune responses). It is available in both a 99 or 184 panel. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$129-238

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted