Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders, affecting approximately one in five people in the UK. It causes a spectrum of symptoms including abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habit, and urgency that can significantly affect daily life, yet have no single identifiable structural cause. Accurate diagnosis and a personalised management strategy are essential: self-managing IBS without specialist input often leads to ongoing discomfort and unnecessary dietary restriction.
Dr Lekharaju takes a thorough, evidence-based approach to IBS beginning with a comprehensive assessment to exclude other gastrointestinal conditions (including coeliac disease, IBD, and microscopic colitis) before establishing a clear diagnosis. Management is then tailored to your individual symptom profile, lifestyle, and preferences, drawing on dietary modification, pharmacological therapy, gut-directed psychological strategies, and, where appropriate, further investigation.
What's involved
The procedure
- Thorough clinical assessment to exclude other gastrointestinal conditions before confirming an IBS (DGBI) diagnosis
- Personalised dietary guidance — including low-FODMAP advice and fibre modification where appropriate
- Pharmacological support — antispasmodics, laxatives, antidiarrhoeals, or low-dose neuromodulators as indicated
Afterwards
Ongoing management
- Regular follow-up consultations to assess treatment response and adjust the plan as needed
- Written summary of dietary and medication recommendations provided after each appointment
- Direct clinic access between appointments if symptoms worsen or a new concern arises
- Investigative procedures (colonoscopy, breath testing) arranged promptly if clinically indicated
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How is IBS diagnosed?
IBS is a clinical diagnosis based on your symptom pattern and the exclusion of other conditions. Dr Lekharaju will assess your history thoroughly and arrange blood tests or other investigations as required before confirming the diagnosis.
Will I need an endoscopy or colonoscopy?
Not necessarily. Many IBS patients can be diagnosed and managed without invasive investigation. Where alarm symptoms are present — such as rectal bleeding, unintentional weight loss, or a family history of bowel cancer — further investigation will be arranged.
Is IBS curable?
IBS is a long-term condition, but with the right management strategy, the majority of patients achieve a significant and sustained reduction in symptoms. Many patients go on to live without meaningful restriction.
Does diet really make a difference?
Yes — dietary modification is one of the most effective tools in IBS management. Dr Lekharaju provides evidence-based nutritional guidance, including low-FODMAP strategies, tailored to your specific symptom profile.
How quickly can I be seen?
Appointments are typically available within 5–7 days. Remote consultations can often be arranged more quickly for patients who are unable to attend in person.
