Relief for Irritable Bowl Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder that affects the large intestine, and it is sometimes referred to as a spastic or irritable colon. The symptoms of this disorder are abdominal pain, loose bowel movements, diarrhea and constipation. This disorder is difficult to identify because there are no tests that are specifically used for it, which means that doctors look at patients' symptoms to diagnose their conditions. Most people who have this disorder do not seek treatment, and even if they do, there is no cure for it. There are, however, treatments and lifestyle changes that can alleviate the symptoms.

Treatments

• To stop patients' diarrhea, doctors often prescribe fiber supplements or laxatives such as Lomatil and Imodium. An increase in their fiber intake, however, can cause abdominal bloating and gas. Antispasmodics are prescribed to help with abdominal pain. Antidepressants such as Motival are sometimes prescribed as pain relievers, regulating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as diarrhea and constipation. The main problem with antispasmodics and antidepressants is that they can cause constipation to worsen. In order to get muscles in the bladder and intestines to relax, doctors may prescribe medications such as Donnapine and Librax, but they contain a type of sedative that can be habit forming. The only drug that is used specifically to treat irritable bowel syndrome is Lotronex. Lotronex is only given to women with symptoms such as severe diarrhea that lasts six months, severe abdominal pain and frequent bowel urgency. The side effects to this drug include severe constipation and a decrease in blood flow toward the colon.
  One alternative therapy is probiotics. These are live microorganisms that are similar to those that are found within the human stomach. They are mainly found in foods and dietary supplements, such as Natren's Health Trinity capsule. Probiotics have not been clinically tested. Another alternative treatment is peppermint oil in capsule and liquid forms. It has been found to be effective in very small doses. There is some evidence that the side effects of peppermint oil are allergic reactions and heartburn.

Diet

• People with IBS often find relief by changing their diets, especially if they eat more high fiber foods. Doctors recommend that patients increase their fiber intake to about 2 to 3 grams per day. To get more fiber, you should eat at least 2 cups of fruit and 2 ½ cups of vegetables a day. You can get in a variety of produce, like beans, raspberries, apples, sweet potatoes and prunes. You can also get fiber in whole grain breads, cereals and brown rice. Add fiber to your diet gradually so that you do not experience bloating, cramping and gas. Eating more yogurt can also help relieve gas and bloating, because yogurt contains lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, two types of "good" bacteria that are found within your large intestine. Drink more water to bring relief from symptoms such as diarrhea.
  People with IBS should stay away from foods and beverages that worsen their condition, often including wheat, barley, rye, chocolate and milk products. Keep track of what foods cause symptoms to worsen and reduce or eliminate these foods from your diet.

Stress Relief

• Along with changes in diet, doctors may also recommend exercises and activities that reduce stress in people's lives. Stress can cause IBS symptoms to appear or worsen because the colon can respond negatively to stress. Doctors may recommend stress reduction activities such as meditation and yoga, aerobic exercises such as walking and swimming, and counseling.