Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome involves a heavy dose of listening.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Irritable Bowel Syndrome is one of the most common ailments of the bowel and affects an estimated 15 percent of people in the United States. 

Dr. Brian Muska, selected as a Chicago Top Doctor by TopTierMD as a top rated gastroenterologist in Chicago, specializes in Gastroenterology at Advanced Gastroenterology Associates and is considered an expert in the Chicago area. 

“Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS refers to a disorder of the lower intestinal tract that involves abdominal pain and abnormal bowel movements,” Dr. Muska said. “There are many different options and treatments. However, each patient is unique in how they react to or respond to these treatments.” 

The goal of IBS treatment is to relieve symptoms. Lifestyle changes, including getting regular exercise and improving sleep habits, can be helpful in some cases to reduce anxiety and help relieve bowel symptoms.  Dietary changes can also be helpful, such as increasing dietary fiber and avoiding foods and drinks that stimulate the intestines. 

Other treatments may include antidiarrheal medications, counseling, low-dose antidepressants and other medications that stimulate bowel movement. 

“The most important role I have is to listen. I sit with the patients and listen to how their symptoms change and gauge what affects them and doesn’t and really get to know what’s leading to their symptoms,” Dr. Muska said. “I will spend time talking about how the medications and treatments can be effective in their situations. Every patient and case is different, and it takes a lot of listening and understanding what is causing the problem.” 

Dr. Muska admits that because there are so many options out there, sometimes it takes some trial and error, but by paying attention to how patients react and respond to treatments they are receiving, they will be helped. 

“We don’t do a lot of unnecessary tests and our follow-up is very good,” Dr. Muska said. “One of my best attributes is in cases that require a lot of talking and [discovering] of ongoing chronic illnesses. I enjoy spending time with my patients, going over symptoms, getting them to understand diseases and helping them.  This is the key and often doctors don't take enough time to simply listen to their patients.” 

Dr. Brian Muska MD of Advanced Gastroenterology Associates was selected in 2010 by TopTierMD as a Chicago Top Doctor - He was named a Best Chicago Gastroenterologist specializing in colonoscopy screening and polypectomy, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease and liver disease. He practices in Hoffman Estates, IL and Elk Grove Village, IL and is affiliated with St Alexius Medical Center and Alexian Brothers Medical Center.