Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Online

Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that affects the large intestine, also known as the colon. The syndrome is defined as a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder, which means the GI tract behaves abnormally. To send food through the intestinal tract, the walls of the intestines contract and relax. When these contractions are abnormally intense or weak, this can lead to diarrhea or constipation. 

Unlike ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, IBS does not cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer. Irritable bowel syndrome has been referred to by a number of different names including IBS colitis, mucous colitis, spastic colon, nervous colon, and spastic bowel.

The condition is often categorized into one of four categories that take into account stool consistency. Depending on the type of IBS, the treatment differs. These categories are:

  • IBS with constipation, or IBS-C: hard or lumpy stools at least 25 percent of the time
  • IBS with diarrhea, or IBS-D: loose or watery stools at least 25 percent of the time
  • Mixed IBS, or IBS-M: both hard or lumpy stools and loose or watery stools at least 25 percent of the time

During a video consult on TelaCare your provider will ask you a series of targeted questions to determine if your symptoms point to irritable bowel syndrome. Then your provider will proceed to determine the best treatment plan for you. Your physician may recommend an in-person examination by a specialist if needed. Your treatment plan is based on the duration and severity of your symptoms and your medical history.

Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor will go over the risks and benefits of the various treatment plans. Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome is different depending on the severity.

Options for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome may include:

  • Dietary changes
  • Fiber supplements
  • Anti-diarrheal medication
  • Antibiotics
  • Counseling

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Got Questions? We've got answers.

See below for answers to some of our most common questions. You can also call us anytime 24 hours a day at 1-800-317-0280 to speak to a medical professional about your symptoms or conditions.



 Are there any home remedies for acid reflux?

There are a number of lifestyle changes that can be made to improve acid reflux symptoms. The most effective remedy is avoiding food that may trigger acid reflux, including chocolate, tomato, mint, garlic, onions, or spicy foods. Other actions that help with acid reflux are eating smaller meals more frequently, quitting smoking, eating more than a few hours before lying down, and avoiding tight clothes.


 Does TelaCare offer refunds?

No, All sales are final, and no refunds will be offered or accepted on services purchased from TelaCare. As we are a medical benefits company like any other benefit, once you accept our terms and conditions, you have purchased our services and accept this refund policy as a whole. Services can be canceled in the system at your discretion under account settings if your account is completed. Your satisfaction with your purchase is essential to us. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase for any reason, please contact us at support@telacare.com


 Can I get a prescription online?

Yes, in general you can get a prescription online. There is support for this nationwide, however there are several exceptions. 


 I do not have a smartphone or computer, is there another way to talk with a doctor?

Yes, by dialing 1-800-317-0280 you can connect with agents who can assist you with whatever it is you’re looking for, including enrollment, connecting with a doctor, or answering any technical support questions.

 Can I see a doctor if I am traveling outside of the United States?

While we hope to soon be available internationally, we currently only operate in the United States.


 If my condition cannot be treated through TelaCare, can I still discuss it with a doctor?

If it is not an emergency condition, yes. Doctors at TelaCare are able to provide medical advice, counsel you about your condition, and help you work through your treatment options.

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