Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is not a disease but a group of symptoms, including abdominal pain or cramps, gas and diarrhea or constipation. The symptoms of IBS occur because the large intestine processes your food too fast or too slow. Researchers aren't sure why this happens, but doctors and other health care providers have identified some steps to help you avoid or limit the symptoms of IBS, so the syndrome doesn't keep you from living a full, healthy life.
Step 1
Reduce stress. Irritable bowel syndrome can be brought on, or triggered, by many factors and stress is one of them. This is because the autonomic nervous system, which affects your digestive system, gets revved up when you are under stress. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends exercise, relaxation training, meditation or counseling to help reduce stress and lessen its effect on your bowels.
Step 2
Keep a diary of what you eat. A good way to determine which foods are most likely to trigger an IBS attack is to keep a diary, listing the foods you eat and any symptoms you experience. Be sure to try a food at least a couple of times before crossing it off your list. Be especially watchful with foods that are common triggers of IBS symptoms including gas-producing foods, such as beans and cabbage, as well as foods containing sorbitol, a sugar substitute, as these foods may cause more pain and cramping. Lactose intolerance often accompanies IBS, according to the American College of Gastroenterology, so milk and milk products are often difficult to digest. Gluten is another protein that often causes trouble for IBS sufferers; wheat, rye and barley are especially risky food choices. Fatty foods, chocolate and carbonated beverages are also common triggers. If one of your main symptoms is diarrhea, you should avoid drinks that stimulate the digestive system such as caffeine and alcohol.
Step 3
Maintain good eating habits. Establish regular bowel function by eating at about the same time every day. For those who suffer from diarrhea, have smaller meals, six times per day. Be sure to include plenty of fresh vegetables. For those who have constipation, eating meals that include lots of whole grain and fiber or adding a fiber supplement to your diet may be helpful. Don't increase your fiber intake all at once, though, as this can trigger symptoms. You should also drink plenty of water, especially if you have diarrhea, so you don't get dehydrated.
Step 4
Take medications only if necessary. Both over-the-counter and prescription medications are available if your symptoms are severe. Laxatives or anti-diarrheals, such as Imodium, can help, but should be used judiciously, as chronic use can lead to other problems. Laxatives, for example, can be habit forming. MayoClinic.com recommends using the lowest possible dose when taking these medications. If cramping or abdominal pain is an issue, your doctor can prescribe antispasmodic medicines such as hyoscyamine or dicyclomine. Sedatives, tranquilizers and antidepressants sometimes provide relief from stress, depression or anguish associated with the day-to-day challenges of living with irritable bowel syndrome. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases notes that alosetron hydrochloride, which is sold as Lotronex, is sometimes prescribed for women with severe IBS who have not responded to conventional therapy and whose primary symptom is diarrhea. However, this medication has some serious side effects, so should only be taken when other treatments aren't effective.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor about other steps you can take to avoid the symptoms of IBS.
Things You'll Need
- Exercise or meditation program
- Diary
- Whole grain foods or fiber supplements
- Water
- Laxatives or anti-diarrheal medicine
- Prescription medications
References
- Medline Plus: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Tips on Controlling Your Symptoms
- American College of Gastroenterology: Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Member Comments