How to Combat Irritable Bowel Syndrome Ibs
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a very common disease. Its symptoms may include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas and mucus in stools. It can be extremely painful and can come and go. It can be difficult to diagnose, and is often suggested in the presence of symptoms and no other explanation. There are various things that can help combat this uncomfortable condition.
Learn how fiber affects you
Fiber can be helpful to someone who has IBS, but it must be taken with care. It can help relieve constipation, but it can also increase gas. You may want to increase your intake of it to see if it can be helpful to reduce your symptoms.
Avoid trigger foods
Some people with IBS are very sensitive to certain types of foods. Avoiding these may help with symptoms. Potentially harmful foods include alcohol, foods that contain caffeine, dairy products and artificial sweeteners. Even chewing gum can be a problem for some people if it causes them to swallow more air and get more gas.
Make a regular schedule for eating
Eating at such a schedule may keep bowel movements regular. How you eat may be influenced by how the IBS is affecting you. If diarrhea is a problem, then smaller meals may be more helpful. If you are constipated then big meals with a great amount of fiber may be more appropriate.
Emotional issues
IBS can be exacerbated by stress. Those who suffer from it may find that stress reducing techniques can help to relieve some of the symptoms. Of course, there are a variety of ways to reduce stress, and these include meditation, counseling, relaxation techniques, slow breathing, cognitive therapy and more. If there are stressors in one’s life, then getting rid of those may aid with the symptoms of IBS.
Be careful with medications
Although your first urge may be to load up on all of the stomach ailment medications, you must be careful. Taking these too often or for too long can cause problems. Discuss with your doctor your problems and any appropriate medications.
New studies are being conducted on IBS, so there may soon be new resources to help those afflicted with this painful condition. One recent study has suggested that the antibiotic Xifaxan may be effective in providing relief. Those who have this condition should keep up to date on the newest research.
IBS is a painful condition that affects scores of people. The above strategies may help to provide relief to those afflicted.
Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001292/
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/irritable-bowel-syndrome/DS00106
http://www.webmd.com/ibs/default.htm