Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, IBS occurs in one of five American Adults. Although the cause of IBS is unknown there are some medications to treat the disease, as well as some disease management strategies to help reduce symptoms.
Medications for IBS
Two medications that are approved for use with IBS, according to Mayoclinic.com. Alosterone hydrochloride--Lotronex is the brand name--is a medication that helps relax the colon and prevent spasms. Lotronex is only approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in women with diarrhea-type IBS. The second medication Lubiprostone--Amitiza is the brand name--is approved by the FDA for use in women with constipation type IBS.
Alternative Therapy
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine identifies that probiotics are a type of bacteria similar to the good bacteria found in the intestines that may help in the treatment of IBS. The NCCAM also identifies that the supplement peppermint oil may help in the treatment of IBS.
Manage Symptoms with Meds
Mayoclinic.com identifies that over the counter anti-diarrhea meds like loperamide-- Imodium is the brand name--can help manage diarrhea, while laxatives may help with constipation. Mayoclinic.com explains that some may benefit from doctor-prescribed anticholinergic medications to help reduce painful intestine spasms. Mayoclinic.com also describes that pain and depression may be symptoms of IBS, and that a doctor may prescribe a tricyclic antidepressant or a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor to help.
Manage Symptoms With Diet
Keep a food journal and record all foods that cause symptoms, and reduce intake of those foods. The next step is to make sure to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day and limit intake of carbonated drinks like soda. Another thing to do is to gradually increase the amount of fiber in the diet to help regulate bowel movements and reduce constipation. Eating four to six small low fat meals a day may help with digestion and help reduce symptoms. Meeting with a registered dietitian can help make sure that the diet is adequate in fiber, macronutrients, vitamins and minerals if certain foods are limited.
Manage Symptoms With Lifestyle
Reducing the amount of stress can help manage the symptoms of IBS because stress can sometimes cause spasms and abdominal pain, according to the NDDIC. Making lifestyle changes, including using meditation, exercising, avoiding stressful situations, speaking with a counselor and getting enough sleep, can help reduce stress.
References
- National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatments and Drugs
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: An Introduction to Probiotics
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Peppermint Oil
