IBS Relief
IBS Relief: Finding the Right Treatment
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the large intestine, leading to symptoms such as cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea and/or constipation). IBS is a chronic condition that needs long-term management.
Symptoms
Abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating
Gas
Diarrhea or constipation — sometimes alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea
Diagnosis
TIBS is typically diagnosed based on a pattern of symptoms. There is no specific test for IBS. The process often involves:
Medical history: Assessing symptoms and their duration.
Exclusion of other conditions: Blood tests to rule out other problems, stool tests may be used to exclude infections or inflammation.
Imaging tests and endoscopy: These may be conducted to exclude other causes if symptoms don’t exclusively fit IBS or if alarm features like weight loss, fever, or blood in the stool are present.
Treatment
Treatment for IBS focuses on relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. Mild signs and symptoms can often be controlled by managing diet, lifestyle, and stress. More-severe symptoms might require medication and counseling.
Dietary adjustments: Individual responses vary, but common triggers include gluten, certain carbohydrates called FODMAPs, dairy, and caffeine.
Fiber supplements: Can help manage constipation.
Medications: Antispasmodic medications can relieve muscle spasms in the gut. Laxatives may be prescribed for constipation, and medications that control bowel motility can be used for diarrhea.
Psychological therapies: Stress can trigger symptoms in many people with IBS; therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy or mindfulness training may help manage symptoms