The challenge of irritable bowel syndrome: creating an alliance between patient and physician.

Author(s): Shen B, Soffer E

Affiliation(s): Department of Gastroenterology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195, USA.

Publication date & source: 2001-03, Cleve Clin J Med., 68(3):224-5, 229-33, 236-7.

Publication type: Review

The most important component of the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is to establish a therapeutic physician-patient relationship, coupled with patient education. We describe a stepwise approach to management, including judicious use of invasive tests, and setting realistic treatment goals that address the dominant symptoms, their severity, and psychosocial factors.