Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Comprehensive care with compassion and expertise

At CHA, we combine a wide range of medical, surgical and allied health specialities, to provide an in-house multidisciplinary health care experience.

Medically reviewed by
Dr Keval Pandya
Consultant Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (Honours), Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians
Last medically reviewed: March 2026

What is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional bowel disorder that affects how the gut works, rather than causing structural damage. It can significantly impact quality of life.

Causes & Risk Factors

Altered gut–brain interaction
Gut sensitivity
Stress and anxiety
Changes in gut bacteria
Certain foods

Symptoms & How It May Present

Abdominal pain or discomfort
Bloating
Diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating bowel habits
Relief of pain after opening bowels

Symptoms often fluctuate over time and may worsen during periods of stress.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Based on symptoms and clinical criteria
Blood and stool tests to exclude other conditions
Endoscopy only if red flags or atypical features are present

Treatment & Management Options

Dietary modification (e.g. low-FODMAP diet)
Medications for bowel habit control
Gut-directed therapies
Stress management and psychological support

Living With / Managing IBS

IBS is a long-term condition, but symptoms can be well controlled with the right combination of diet, lifestyle changes, and treatment.

Prevention & Risk Reduction

There is no single way to prevent IBS, but symptom flares can often be reduced by identifying personal triggers and managing stress.

When to Seek Medical Advice

New symptoms after age 50
Weight loss
Rectal bleeding
Anaemia
Night-time symptoms

Our approach

At CHA, we focus on early diagnosis, clear communication and evidence-based treatment.

Timely Access

We aim to provide rapid referral and appointment times so you don’t have to wait to be seen.

Comprehensive Assessment

Our specialists use the latest imaging and diagnostic tools to identify your condition quickly and accurately.

Collaborative Care

We work closely with GPs, hospitals and other specialists to coordinate every stage of your treatment.

Personalised Treatment

Each care plan is tailored to your specific condition, goals and long-term heart health.

Ongoing Support

We provide regular follow-up, education and lifestyle guidance to help you stay healthy and prevent future problems.

Patient Journey

Your path to better health starts here. From your first consultation to recovery, we’re with you every step.

Book & prepare

Easy booking & prep guides

See your specialist

Urgent appointments are available

Get diagnosed

Advanced testing & collaborative review

Start treatment

Integrated hospital & clinic care

Recover & support

Follow-up, allied health & lifestyle advice

Why choose Complete Health Australia

Experienced specialists

Our doctors are leaders in their fields.

Collaborative approach

We work closely with your GP and other healthcare professionals to ensure your care is co-ordinated, comprehensive and evidence based.

On-site diagnostic services

Selected cardiac, respiratory, gastrointestinal and gynaecological investigations can be performed at the clinic, helping streamline assessment and follow-up.

Modern, comfortable rooms

Purpose-designed consulting rooms to support private, unhurried conversations and thorough assessments.

Support to navigate the system

Our team can help with referrals, Medicare questions, and follow-up bookings.