Question

A 47-year-old woman presents with recurrent abdominal pain associated with bloating and altered bowel habits for over 6 months. Investigations including FBC, CRP, and colonoscopy are normal. According to the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology guideline for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), what is the most appropriate management approach?

Accepted Answer

Use a multipronged approach including education, dietary modification (e.g., low FODMAP), and targeted pharmacotherapy based on predominant symptoms

Answer

Tell her that IBS is purely psychological and needs no medical input

Answer

Immediately start chronic opioid therapy for pain control

Answer

Order repeated CT scans of the abdomen

Answer

Recommend prolonged bed rest

Practice question