Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatments to Relieve Symptoms
The exact cause of IBS is unknown, it's related to things like food passing through your intestines too fast, or too slowly, overly sensitive nerves in your gut, stress, and a family history of IBS.
Unlike many other health circumstance, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) relief is not often found by taking just one medication. In contrast, people with IBS usually use a variety of ways to reduce their symptoms.
From hot and teas to relieve stomach discomfort, to carefully planning what you will eat, and learning how to relax, there are a number of approaches you can take. Because everyone who treats IBS is different, some treatments may work better for you than others, and you may benefit from a unique combination of strategies.
Along with your healthcare provider's advice, hopefully these tips can help you find some relief from the everyday pain of IBS.
What is an Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a collection of symptoms that can include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. These changes could mean having constipation (IBS-C), diarrhea (IBS-D), or a mixture of the two (IBS-M). IBS is fairly common, with about 12% of people in the United States believed to be suffering from its symptoms.
And it is a condition that women are twice as likely to develop as men. Although IBS doesn't harm the gut, it can cause a lot of discomfort. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available, including dietary and lifestyle changes, that can help control the symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of IBS
IBS affects people in different ways, but pain and discomfort are symptoms that occur in everyone with the condition. Bloating is also a common sign. Some people may have diarrhea but not constipation, some people may have constipation but not diarrhea, and others may have bouts of both. In many people, IBS symptoms come and go.
Symptoms that are not related to the gut, such as menstrual pain, headaches, backaches, and general fatigue, can also occur in people with IBS. These symptoms may be due to stress, or people with IBS, who are more concerned about their health.
Symptoms similar to IBS may be a sign of something more serious, so it's important to see your doctor for a full diagnosis.
How to Calm IBS Flare Up
Are you looking for some short-term techniques to relieve IBS pain? Try any of the following to help relieve IBS symptoms, or combine them however you like:
Change your diet
Making simple changes to your diet can often relieve your IBS symptoms. There is no specific diet for IBS, and what works for one person may not work for another. The diet-related changes that will work best for you will depend on your symptoms and your reaction to certain foods.
Keeping a food diary can assist you identify foods that may improve, or worsen your symptoms. Track the foods you eat, the symptoms you experience, and when they occur.
According to (1) the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, foods and beverages that have been shown to worsen IBS symptoms include:
- high-fat foods
- some dairy products
- alcoholic beverages
- caffeine
- drinks high in artificial sweeteners
- beans, cabbage, and other gas-causing foods
The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders also highlights insoluble fiber, chocolate, and nuts as foods that are less likely to cause problems.
Apply Gentle Heat
Give your tummy a little TLC, by warming a hot pack or hot water bottle in the microwave for 30 to 90 seconds, and placing it on the lower abdomen for 15 to 20 minutes (or according to the guidance). The gentle heat from the pack can relieve stomach problems, relieve some of the discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome, not to mention the health benefits you'll get from 15 minutes of rest and relaxation.
Attemp Guided Imagery for Pain Relief.
Guided imagery is a technique that involves using the power of imagination, in an attempt to bring about desired changes in the body. While there are no studies that specifically support guided imagery for IBS, there are studies showing that it can relieve suffering from a wide variety of other ailments.
The nice thing about guided imagery is that it's a safe technique to practice. This is something you can try on your own, or with the help of a trained professional.
Lower Your Stress Level
As simple as it sounds: don't forget to breathe! Keep in mind that an IBS attack is only temporary. Sure, the pain and discomfort can make it feel like it's going on forever, but with the healing power of time, and these IBS relief techniques, you'll be back to your normal self eventually. In the meantime, do yourself a favor, by reducing daily stress as much as possible. Try to pinpoint exactly what makes you anxious or stressed, and consciously plan to reduce any triggers.
Change your lifestyle to help reduce IBS symptoms
Some lifestyle changes that can also help relieve symptoms are:
- Eat less, more often
- Quit smoking
- Exercise regularly
- Take probiotics
- Avoid caffeine
- Use stress management and relaxation techniques
- Awareness training
- Bio Feedback
- Cognitive behavioral therapy or psychotherapy
- Gut-directed hypnosis
- Enough sleep
- Pain management techniques
- Regular exercise such as walking or yoga
- Try ginger which can help digestion
- Avoid laxatives unless prescribed by your healthcare professional
When Should I See a Healthcare Provider?
See your healthcare provider, if you have symptoms more than three times a month, for more than three months. Some symptoms may indicate a more serious problem. Call your provider as soon as possible if you have: Bleeding. Weight loss, Fever, Severe pain.
Summary
Living with irritable bowel syndrome can be challenging, embarrassing and painful, and can affect your quality of life. Just do some of the ways above, to help you get rid of the unpleasant symptoms you are experiencing, from irritable bowel syndrome.
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