Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Care in Seoul, Korea — VEI Clinic Apgujeong (English-Friendly)

Quick intro

VEI Clinic Apgujeong offers English-friendly evaluation and management for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)—helping travelers and Seoul residents manage abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits. We’re on the 3rd floor of Beneheim City (162 Apgujeong-ro), a short walk from Apgujeong Station Exit 5.

What IBS is

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort with changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both). It’s a diagnosis of exclusion—we first rule out other conditions (infection, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, thyroid issues, etc.).

Common symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain/cramping relieved or worsened after bowel movements
  • Bloating or gas
  • Constipation, diarrhea, or alternating patterns
  • Mucus in stool (sometimes)
  • Symptoms triggered by stress, food, or hormonal cycles

Our approach at VEI Clinic

We combine medical evaluation, targeted testing, and practical management in English.

What we offer (doctor-guided):

  • History & exam: symptom diary, red-flag screening (weight loss, blood in stool, family history)
  • Targeted labs: CBC, CRP, thyroid, celiac screen, stool tests (infection, parasites, calprotectin) when indicated
  • Imaging/referral: abdominal ultrasound or colonoscopy referral if alarm features
  • Individualized plan:
  • Diet strategies (low FODMAP guidance, fiber adjustments)
  • Gut–brain axis support (stress management, sleep anchors)
  • Medications as needed (antispasmodics, anti-diarrheals, laxatives, probiotics, bile acid binders, peppermint oil capsules, neuromodulators)
  • Coordination with dietitians and mental health providers (if beneficial)
We avoid blanket “detoxes” or unproven supplements. Every test or therapy is chosen because it will change management.

When to see us promptly

  • Chronic abdominal pain or stool changes without explanation
  • Flare-ups after travel or food poisoning
  • Symptoms affecting work or travel plans
  • Uncertain diagnosis or poor response to over-the-counter remedies

Red flags needing urgent or hospital care

  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Persistent blood in stool or black tarry stools
  • Severe abdominal pain with fever
  • Severe dehydration from diarrhea
  • Family history of colon cancer or IBD with new symptoms

Visit flow (what to expect)

  1. Brief consult → symptoms, triggers, past tests, meds
  2. Targeted testing → only what’s necessary to confirm IBS and rule out mimics
  3. Management plan → stepwise diet, medication, stress support
  4. Follow-up at 4–8 weeks with symptom tracking

Preparation (simple checklist)

  • Bring a symptom diary (foods, stress, bowel movements)
  • Bring prior labs or imaging
  • List all medications and supplements (including herbs/probiotics)
  • Eat normally unless we advise fasting for labs

Pricing & insurance notes

  • Fees vary by consultation, labs, and prescriptions
  • Most visitors pay upfront; many insurers reimburse with documentation
  • Ask for an itemized English receipt (diagnosis/procedure codes)

Safety note (not an emergency service)

If you have severe abdominal pain with fever, vomiting blood, black/tarry stools, persistent blood in stool, or very high fever with dehydration, call 119 or go to an ER. IBS care is for non-urgent situations.

Hours & location

  • Mon/Thu/Fri: 10:00–19:00
  • Tue: 10:00–20:00
  • Sat: 10:00–16:00
  • Lunch: 13:00–14:00 (except Sat)
  • Closed: Wed & Sun
  • Address: 3F, VEI Clinic, 162 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (Beneheim City, near Apgujeong Station Exit 5)
  • Phone: 02-542-8275 / 010-5700-7597

What to bring

  • Passport/ID, Korean phone number (if any)
  • Medication/supplement list, prior test results
  • Payment method (card/cash); insurer details if you’ll file a claim

Why choose VEI Clinic Apgujeong

  • English-friendly internal-medicine team experienced with expats and travelers
  • Evidence-based diagnosis and practical management (no unnecessary tests)
  • Diet and stress support with English handouts and follow-up
  • Clear aftercare and insurance-ready English receipts

Book now (quick script)

“Hello, I’d like to book an appointment for IBS evaluation (abdominal pain/irregular bowels). Could you share today/tomorrow availability, which tests you recommend, and a quote? I’ll need an English receipt. Thank you!”