Why is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) so hard to diagnose?

Sarah Has Questions

Why is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) so hard to diagnose?

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Published on Dec 2, 2025, 1:00:00 AM
Total time: 00:24:54

Episode Description

We're digging into the confusing and often frustrating world of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). With gastroenterologist Dr. Luis Vazquez from WakeMed as our expert guest, we explore what IBS really is, how it’s diagnosed, and how to tell it apart from other gut conditions like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. Sarah shares her own journey with IBS since the age of 13.

From the role of fiber and diet to the mysteries of the gut microbiome, this episode covers the latest science on IBS and why why treatment looks different for each person.

00:00 IBS vs. IBD Symptom Differences

04:09 Red Flags for Digestive Health

08:58 Stress and IBS Connection

09:43 IBS: Nervous System Connection

13:45 Food Allergies and IBS Connection

18:01 Minimizing Medications for IBS Treatment

18:59 FODMAPs and Digestive Pain

24:22 "Living with IBS"

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DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast is intended to be educational and nothing said by the host or guests should be taken as medical advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your health is important, and seeking the advice of your own healthcare provider is always the best course of action. 
More about Sarah Has Questions

When it comes to life, wellness, health and medicine, we all have questions. Sarah King is not afraid to ask ANYTHING.

Is THIS normal?  Is THAT a problem I should see a doctor about?  

What can I do RIGHT NOW to keep fill in the blank from happening in the future? 

Sarah King has questions, but instead of a 10-minute doctor’s appointment where she comes away without answers, she gets to sit down with world-class physicians for candid conversations. And she’s not afraid to ask anything! No topic is off limits from sex, infertility and menopause to mental health, exercise and "Do I really need probiotics?” Doctors from WakeMed in Raleigh, NC answer her questions...ALL of her questions!

Sarah has questions, and admit it, you do too!  Sarah Has Questions is produced by MIX 101.5 in Raleigh, NC.