Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month

The Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness month is observed in April every year by the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) to increase awareness about this bowel problem that affects around 10-20 percent of the population. Do you suffer from frequent diarrhea or constipation? Is it related to your state of mind or the food you eat? Have you undergone tests which reveal nothing abnormal, in spite of which your symptoms still persist? You could be suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Here is some information that could help you to understand the condition, so that you can deal with it better.

• IBS causes symptoms like abdominal discomfort or pain, diarrhea and /or constipation, abdominal bloating, gas and urgency. Symptoms often appear after eating and the patients feel relieved after a bowel movement.
• The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be very similar to symptoms caused more serious bowel conditions including cancer. Therefore, your doctor may ask you to undergo tests like stool tests and colonoscopy to rule out other serious conditions, and only then may come to a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• It is important not to suffer in silence, but to reach out for help. Though there is no definite cure for IBS, your doctor will suggest diet and lifestyle changes as well as medications to control your symptoms.
• Dietary changes can help to a large extent. You should maintain a diary, note down the foods that seem to worsen or reduce the symptoms, and accordingly make changes to your diet. Eat small frequent meals instead of large ones. If you suffer from constipation-predominant IBS, make sure that you do not skip your breakfast. Some people may benefit from reducing fiber intake in the diet, while others may benefit from increasing its intake. Caffeine, chocolate and nuts should be avoided.
• Probiotics can help to control symptoms. Probiotics contain good bacteria that help to settle your stomach. Peppermint oil in the form of capsules may also help. Your doctor will also prescribe medications to control your symptoms.
• Since IBS worsens with stress, relaxation can help you feel better. Unfortunately, it is easier said than done. Make sure you sleep well at night. Read a book or engage in some other activity that relaxes you before going to bed. You could practice relaxation techniques like yoga and incorporate that in your daily routine. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be useful. Exercise regularly, especially if you suffer from constipation.

Adopt a healthy diet, try to live a healthy, stressfree life, and you might find yourself with a less irritable bowel!

Reference:

1. IBS Awareness Month Tips of the Day - (http://www.aboutibs.org/ibs-awareness-month/ibs-awareness-month-tips-of-the-day.html)
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/all-content)

Source-Medindia