Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Abdominal pain, unpredictable bowel habits (either diarrhoea or constipation) and bloating that disrupts your daily life may indicate Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This common digestive condition affects millions worldwide and can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated.
Dr. John Hsiang is a distinguished gastroenterologist in Singapore with extensive training and experience in digestive health. He obtained his Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in Gastroenterology in 2012 and holds a PhD in viral hepatitis and fatty liver disease research.
He provides care for a broad range of digestive and liver concerns, combining thorough evaluation with tailored management to support patients’ long-term well-being.
Dr Hsiang is skilled in performing gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) and colonoscopy to investigate symptoms, detect stomach and colon cancers at an early stage, and provide timely treatment options.
With a commitment to individualised care, he applies an evidence-based approach that prioritises accuracy, effectiveness and patient comfort at every stage of diagnosis and treatment.
Languages Spoken:
English, Mandarin and Hokkien
Fellowship Trained Specialist
20+ Years of Clinical Experience
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
- IBS-D: Mainly diarrhoea
- IBS-C: Mainly constipation
- IBS-M: Mixed (alternating between both)
What Causes IBS?
IBS arises from a complex interplay of factors. An oversensitive gut-brain connection transforms normal digestion into a painful experience, while stress and emotions amplify symptoms. Certain foods—including fatty foods, dairy, wheat and artificial sweeteners—act as triggers, and imbalanced gut bacteria further disrupt digestive harmony.
Recognising IBS Symptoms
Common Symptoms
IBS symptoms vary between people but typically include:
Stomach Pain and Cramping – Usually in the lower belly, often relieved after going to the bathroom. The pain rarely happens during sleep.
Changed Bowel Habits:
- Frequent loose stools with urgency (IBS-D)
- Hard, infrequent stools with straining (IBS-C)
- Alternating between both patterns (IBS-M)
Bloating – Uncomfortable swelling that often worsens throughout the day, making clothes feel tight.
Gas and Wind – Excessive gas production and difficulty passing gas.
Feeling of Incomplete Emptying – The sensation that you haven’t fully emptied your bowels.
Other Possible Signs
With proper diagnosis and treatment, most IBS patients achieve excellent symptom control and return to comfortable daily living. That’s why it is important to consult an experienced gastroenterologist if you suspect you may have IBS.
Other Symptoms may include:
- Mucus in Stools
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Fatigue
- Anxiety/Stress Related Symptoms
Why Proper Diagnosis Matters
Getting the right diagnosis is crucial because many conditions can mimic IBS symptoms. We need to rule out more serious conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, and colorectal cancer.
Certain warning signs require immediate medical attention, including blood in stools, unexplained weight loss, symptoms starting after age 50, severe nighttime symptoms and a family history of bowel cancer.
At Richmond Gastroenterology Centre, Dr. John Hsiang uses international guidelines to diagnose IBS accurately while ensuring nothing serious is missed.
Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome
We treat IBS using a comprehensive approach that combines dietary changes (identifying trigger foods, low FODMAP diet, smaller meals), lifestyle modifications (stress management, exercise, sleep), medications (antispasmodics, probiotics, targeted treatments) and support through counselling or gut-directed therapies when needed.
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Cultural Differences
What to Expect During Treatment
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Comprehensive Testing and Diagnosis
Personalised Treatment Development
Ongoing Care and Support
Patient Information
How is IBS different from occasional stomach upset?
Will I need to avoid certain foods forever?
Can stress really cause physical IBS symptoms?
How long before I see improvement?
Is IBS a serious condition?
Will I need surgery for IBS?
Are there natural treatments for IBS?
Can IBS symptoms change over time?
Consult Our Specialist
Experiencing digestive symptoms or discomfort? Speak to our gastroenterologist for a clearer understanding of your condition and treatment options.
You may book an appointment using our contact form or call the clinic at 6517 9958
