Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you’ll need to manage long term.
Only a small number of people with IBS have severe signs and symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. More-severe symptoms can be treated with medication and counseling. IBS doesn’t cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer.
The signs and symptoms of IBS vary but are usually present for a long time. The most common include:
- Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating that is related to passing a bowel movement.
- Changes in appearance of bowel movement.
- Changes in how often you are having a bowel movement.
Treatment
Treatment of IBS focuses on relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. Mild signs and symptoms can often be controlled by managing stress and by making changes in your diet and lifestyle.
Try to:
1. Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.
2. Eat high-fiber foods.
3. Drink plenty of fluids.
4. Exercise regularly.
5.Get enough sleep.
Your doctor might suggest that you eliminate from your diet:
1. High-gas foods.
2. Gluten.
3. FODMAPs.
Lifestyle and home remedies
Simple changes in your diet and lifestyle often provide relief from IBS. Your body will need time to respond to these changes. Try to:
Experiment with fiber - Fiber helps reduce constipation but also can worsen gas and cramping.
Avoid problem foods - Eliminate foods that trigger your symptoms.
Eat at regular times - Don't skip meals, and try to eat at about the same time each day to help regulate bowel function.
Alternative medicine
Alternative therapies include:
1. Herbal supplements
2. Hypnosis
3. Peppermint
4. Probiotics
5. Stress reduction
