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Please note prescriptions are only available in Canada and given at the doctor's discretion.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) treatment, diagnosis & prescriptions.

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Can I talk to a doctor on Maple about my irritable bowel syndrome?

Yes. In most cases, a doctor on Maple can help you manage a previously diagnosed case of irritable bowel syndrome. Once you describe your symptoms to the doctor, they’ll be able to provide advice, write necessary prescriptions, and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.

If the doctor suspects you have a more serious problem, they may suggest for you to go to a clinic for a thorough physical examination.

Can I get a prescription on Maple?

Yes, our physicians can prescribe medications online during your consultation. Once you accept a prescription, you’ll have the option to pick it up from any pharmacy or to have it delivered right to your door at no additional cost.

You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.

What is irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects the intestines. It’s a chronic condition that needs to be managed, as it causes symptoms that can negatively affect your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can include:

  • Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is typically relieved by passing a bowel movement
  • Excess gas
  • Diarrhea or constipation (sometimes alternating)
  • Mucus in the stool

IBS can come in episodes, so someone suffering from IBS may experience periods that are relatively symptom-free.

What causes irritable bowel syndrome?

The exact cause of IBS isn’t known. Contributing factors include muscle contractions in the intestine that may be too strong or too weak, abnormalities in the nervous system, poor coordination between the brain and the gut, inflammation of the intestines, severe infection, and changes in the bacteria in the gut (microflora).

What food triggers irritable bowel syndrome?

While there are a number of things that can trigger IBS, such as stress and hormones, some foods do make symptoms worse (although they are not necessarily tied to an allergy). Foods such as wheat and dairy products, citrus, beans, cabbage, caffeine, processed foods, and carbonated drinks.

How is IBS treated?

IBS treatment is mainly focused on relieving symptoms to improve your quality of life. Most symptoms can be controlled by managing stress and making changes in your diet and lifestyle, avoiding trigger foods, eating high-fibre foods, drinking plenty of fluids, getting plenty of sleep, and exercising regularly. You may want to discuss dietary changes with a dietician.

Your doctor may also suggest certain medications, such as:

  • Fibre supplements or laxatives
  • Anti-diarrheal medications
  • Anticholinergic medications, which relieve painful bowel spasms
  • Tricyclic antidepressants, which can inhibit the neurons that control the intestines
  • SSRI antidepressants, to treat depression related to symptoms
  • Pain medications
  • There are a few medications specifically for IBS, when all of the above don’t work, such as alosetron, eluxadoline, rifaximin, lubiprostone, and linaclotide
What is Maple?

With Maple, you can start talking to a doctor about your symptoms in a matter of minutes. We’re a healthcare app for fast, convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

You simply log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll immediately connect you to a doctor via live chat or video. You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.

Our doctors can assess symptoms, and provide treatment, including prescriptions as necessary. 

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Patients love using Maple

Read our social media reviews, or download the app

A fantastic way to get medical advice when you are unable to see someone in person. The app is so simple to use. Highly recommend. I am not a tech savvy person but the doctor was kind enough to patiently walk me through every step of the process. Thank you.

— Google Play Store

This app is amazing! The doctor was so professional. I just waited 1-2 mins to get served! I highly recommend this app.

— Google Play Store

The service has been amazing for our family. The doctors are kind, thorough, and ask all the right questions. As a busy family of five, this app has been a life saver

— App store review

Super impressed with this service. Without a family doctor, it’s easy to feel alone with no care. Very thankful to have options.

— Google Play Store User

So fast and efficient. A process that would have ordinarily involved a referral and a six months wait was completed in less than 72 hours. Wholeheartedly recommend Maple.

— Google Review

At 1:30 am, I realized I had a UTI and was desperate for help. I went online and within ten minutes, I had my prescription faxed to my pharmacy. This service gave me peace of mind.

— Trustpilot Review

Maple was there for me when other doctors couldn't be. So convenient. Any time, any day. I am grateful for this service.

— Trustpilot Review

We needed to see a doctor over the weekend as our pediatrician was not available. Logging into Maple and choosing from a selection of specialties was quick and easy. Excellent service!

— Trustpilot Review

Very easy to navigate Maple. It’s secure and trusted. Maple has truly gone above and beyond with their app. Highly recommended.

— Trustpilot Review

Amazing service! It was great being able to connect with a doctor from the comfort of home late at night.

— Trustpilot Review

Treatable conditions

Mental health

Our doctors are available to provide advice and treatment for common mental health conditions.

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Women’s/men’s health

Doctors can advise on family planning and treat conditions, including urinary tract infections and erectile dysfunction.

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