Common Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
When we experience stomach upset, we often attribute it to spicy food, a fatty diet, or unusual levels of stress. While these things can cause stomach upset, recurring symptoms might be a sign of something more serious – Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a chronic condition that causes symptoms of varying types and degrees. Some sufferers have loose stools, while others become constipated. Some complain of extreme abdominal pain, while others experience all of these symptoms off and on.
The good news is that IBS can be controlled through a combination of stress management, dietary changes, and medications. While the condition can never be completely cured, many sufferers find relief after they consult a medical professional.
Of the millions of IBS sufferers, about 70% have mild symptoms which can be treated by a general physician. 25% have moderate symptoms that might interfere with their daily life. 5% of all sufferers have severe symptoms that are very troubling, painful, and detrimental to their quality of life. These people typically require treatment by a specialist.
Mild cases can usually be brought under control by reducing stress and consuming a healthier diet. Moderate cases of IBS can benefit from those changes, but might require more legwork. Consider keeping a food journal to write down everything you eat and discover which foods make your IBS flare up. Severe cases of IBS might require drug therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and perhaps even pain relievers or treatment at a pain management center. Your doctor will recommend the course of therapy that will best benefit you.
Remember that no two IBS sufferers will respond to treatment in the exact same way. If you don’t think that your treatment regimen is helping, speak with your doctor about the next step. Never make changes to your drug or diet plan without the approval of your doctor.
IBS can make you miserable, but it’s not a deadly disease. Nor is it the sign of an underlying condition. If you have symptoms of IBS, seek a doctor’s advice so that you can get a diagnosis and a good plan for managing your discomfort.
