Treatment for Irritable Bowel Diarrhea

As many as one in five people in the United States suffers from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Irritable bowel syndrome diarrhea doesn't have to interfere with your life. Many treatments can help you cope.

Causes

• Irritable bowel syndrome diarrhea occurs when your bowels contract faster than they should. Your diet, depression and anxiety can also contribute to IBS-related diarrhea.

Treatment

• Changing your diet, reducing anxiety, and introducing normal bacterial flora such as Lactobacillus acidophilus into your colon are long-term treatments for irritable bowel syndrome diarrhea. For short-term relief, take an anti-diarrheal medication like Imodium or Lomotil.

Function

• Imodium and Lomotil work by slowing contractions in your intestines and regulating the movement of water and electrolytes that causes irritable bowel syndrome.

Considerations

• As many as 90 percent of people who seek treatment for irritable bowel syndrome also suffer from an anxiety disorder. Consider therapy or anti-anxiety medications in addition to treatment for irritable bowel syndrome.

Warning

• Keep your diet healthy when cutting out foods that trigger irritable bowel syndrome diarrhea. Eating balanced meals will help you avoid anemia and malnourishment.