04/24/2025
April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month—a time to shed light on a condition that affects millions yet often remains misunderstood.
IBS is frequently labeled a "functional disorder," implying that its symptoms lack an identifiable structural cause. However, this classification can sometimes lead to a "wastebasket diagnosis," where symptoms are managed without addressing underlying issues. This approach may overlook root causes, resulting in persistent discomfort and additional health complications.
Chronic gut inflammation associated with IBS can lead to malabsorption, impacting overall health. Common consequences include:
Headaches
Fatigue
Exacerbation of autoimmune conditions
Anxiety or depression
Weight fluctuations
Increased susceptibility to infections
To effectively manage IBS, it's crucial to identify and address its root causes rather than merely suppressing symptoms.
Five Common but Often Overlooked Causes of IBS:
Food Intolerances and Allergies: Sensitivities to foods like gluten, dairy, or certain fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) can trigger IBS symptoms.
Autoimmune Conditions: Diseases such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease can present with IBS-like symptoms and may coexist with IBS.
Chronic Infections: Persistent infections, including Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Small Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth (SIFO), can disrupt gut flora and function.
Ongoing Stress and Brain-Gut Axis Dysregulation: Chronic stress can affect gut motility and sensitivity, exacerbating IBS symptoms.
Small Intestinal Bacterial and Fungal Overgrowth (SIBO/SIFO): Overgrowth of bacteria or fungi in the small intestine can lead to bloating, gas, and altered bowel habits.
If you're experiencing persistent digestive issues, it's essential to seek a comprehensive evaluation to uncover potential underlying causes.
Take the First Step Toward Better Gut Health
In honor of IBS Awareness Month, schedule an appointment with Dr. Torrey Gorla to explore personalized treatment options tailored to your needs.
📞 Call now: 828-237-6566
Before visiting Dr. Gorla, I was grappling with the long-term effects of antibiotic treatments for Lyme disease. I suffered from severe stomach pain that disrupted my sleep, along with intense brain fog and exhaustion. After enduring my third bout of cellulitis—which nearly led to hospitalization—I felt utterly demoralized and defeated.
Dr. Gorla conducted comprehensive lab work and recommended a protocol focused on addressing my gastrointestinal issues and enhancing my immune system. The positive effects were nearly instantaneous. My stomach pain vanished, and the recurring cellulitis ceased. Overall, my health has improved dramatically. I now feel more energetic, clear-minded, and healthier than I have in years.
I trust Dr. Gorla with my health and that of my family. I encourage anyone to visit his office and become a patient. His approach isn't about merely treating symptoms with a pill; it's about optimizing the entire system to allow the body to heal itself. The results truly speak for themselves.
Thank you, Dr. Gorla!
Cheers,
Mike F."
"When I first consulted Dr. Gorla, I had been experiencing debilitating symptoms for several years. I dealt with extreme fatigue, persistent headaches, general malaise, stomach issues, and hypothyroid symptoms, despite being on thyroid replacement therapy. Additionally, I suffered from severe hair loss, having lost nearly half of my hair.
During my consultation with Dr. Gorla, I realized that my health had been mismanaged by previous doctors. Many of my complaints and lab findings had been overlooked for years, leading to a significant decline in my well-being. I could tell that Dr. Gorla was highly knowledgeable and genuinely cared about identifying the root causes of my health issues.
Dr. Gorla developed an individualized, evidence-based treatment plan for me. Since then, my exhaustion has disappeared, my gastrointestinal problems have resolved, my hair is no longer shedding, and I no longer exhibit hypothyroid symptoms. My lab results have improved across 12 markers—an achievement I never reached with my previous doctors.
I usually don't share testimonials, but I want to prevent others from enduring unnecessary suffering as I did."
Meredith B.
