Why IBS-C Treatments Work Differently for Everyone: What Patients Should Know
The Gastro Girl Podcast
05/06/26
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Why does one IBS-C treatment work for someone else—but not for you?
In this episode of the Gastro Girl podcast, leading gastroenterologist Darren M. Brenner. MD, FACG, of Northwestern Medicine, explains why treating IBS-C (irritable bowel syndrome with constipation) is not one-size-fits-all.
Using a real-world patient scenario, Dr. Brenner breaks down what may actually be happening inside the body—from gut motility and visceral sensitivity to the brain-gut connection—and why different therapies target different symptoms and pathways.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why some IBS-C treatments don't work—or stop working over time
- How over-the-counter and prescription therapies differ
- What newer treatment approaches are designed to do
- Why bloating, pain, and constipation may require different strategies
- The role of diet, pelvic floor therapy, and gut-brain interventions
- How patients can work with their healthcare team to find the right treatment plan
If you've ever felt frustrated, stuck, or unsure about your IBS-C treatment journey, this episode offers practical insights to help you better understand your options and feel more empowered in your care.
This episode is part of an educational program made possible by support from Ardelyx.
Previous Episode
What if your bowel habits aren't as healthy as you think?
In this episode of Gastro Girl, we're joined by Dr. Trisha Pasricha, author of You've Been Pooping All Wrong: How to Make Your Bowel Movements a Joy. She breaks down what most people get wrong about bowel movements—and shares simple, science-backed strategies to improve comfort, regularity, and overall digestive health.
From daily habits to the brain-gut connection, we explore what truly supports healthy digestion—and when it's time to seek medical advice.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- What actually defines a "normal" bowel movement
- Why frequency alone doesn't tell the full story
- How lifestyle factors influence digestion
- Practical tips for more comfortable, consistent bowel movements
- Red flags you shouldn't ignore
Whether you're dealing with constipation, irregularity, or just want to better understand your gut, this episode offers clear, evidence-based insights you can trust.
Next Episode
What exactly is Barrett's esophagus—and how do doctors determine who may be at higher risk?
In Part 2 of this 4-part patient education series, leading gastroenterologist and advanced endoscopist Raman Muthusamy explains how Barrett's esophagus develops from chronic GERD and how it's diagnosed and evaluated in clinical practice in the United States.
In this episode, you'll learn:
✔️ What Barrett's esophagus is ✔️ How chronic acid reflux can affect the esophagus ✔️ How Barrett's is diagnosed during endoscopy ✔️ How doctors assess risk for progression to cancer ✔️ Why early detection matters ✔️ How GI specialists guide treatment and follow-up care
If you or someone you love experiences long-standing heartburn, reflux, or GERD symptoms, this episode provides trusted, expert-backed information to help you better understand Barrett's esophagus and what comes next.
This episode is part of a 4-part patient education series sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced in collaboration with leading U.S. clinicians dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with Barrett's esophagus.
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