Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is among one of the common causes that send people to doctors. In fact this condition accounts to ten percent of all primary hospital visits.

While it may be among the common disorders, people tend not to talk about it. It is marked by symptoms such as gas, bloating and diarrhea - certainly not the casual thing that patients would want to open with other people. And add to the fact that Irritable Bowel Syndrome has for long been considered a psychosomatic diseases that appeals more to the mind rather than to the body.

Most patients experience mild symptoms. It is rare that they undergo severe symptoms. However, due to the stress and depression that accompany this disorder, many people find themselves subjected to more painful sensations rather than what they should actually experience. 


The good thing about Irritable Bowel Syndrome though is that it does not lead to more aggravated conditions unlike Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. IBS does not result to changes in bowel tissue nor does it cause inflammation. It does not also contribute to one's susceptibility to colorectal cancer. Thus, it does not require any comprehensive treatments. In fact, it can be helped with changes in general lifestyle, food intake and stress. 


Here are some ways that would help you deal with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: 


Many people experience stress while having attacks of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Biofeedback has been a good help among patients for years. This stress-production technique helps in the reduction of muscle tension to facilitate a slower heart rate with the feedback registration of a machine. You will then be delivered to relaxed states that will help you cope with the stress of undergoing IBS. 


For supplemental support, you may also try practicing yoga and meditation. Regular massage would also prove productive.

Deep breathing helps in the relaxation of muscle. Most adults normally breathe from chests but this must not be the case. The lungs and the diaphragm are intended to be filled in with air and completely released from air. 


Your diaphragm is the muscle that sets the boundary between your abdomen and chest. Once your breathing becomes normal, it is likely that your abdominal muscles are relax, which then creates a more normal bowel movement.


In some cases, relative changes in the diet would help suppress the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. While your body may not respond immediately to these, your goal is after a long term solution, not one that would help relive you for a while. 


Gradually increase your fiber intake over a few weeks. It is a blessing for most diarrhea sufferers as well as constipation patients. Since IBS is marked by symptoms of both conditions, it might as well provide some relief for you. 

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans will do. If your condition doesn't change or if it becomes worse, it is best to seek a dietician's help. 

It is highly suggested that you refrain from taking problem foods. These include chocolates, alcohol, dairy products, sodas, sugar-free sweeteners and caffeinated beverages. Some people have developed oversensitivity to specific foods. It is best that you observe what foods trigger your attacks. For most people though, the following foods certainly cause the increase of attack intensity: fat-based foods such as margarine and butter, nuts, mayonnaise, cream, red meat and ice cream. 

Be careful though that your diet is not much too restricted.


http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/ibs/
www.bbc.co.uk/health/physical_health/conditions/ibs1.shtml 
www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/irritablecolon.htm
www.webmd.com/ibs/guide/ibs-triggers-prevention-strategies