Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common problem with the intestines. In people with IBS, the intestines squeeze too hard or not hard enough and cause food to move too quickly or too slowly through the intestines. IBS usually begins around age 20 and is more common in women.

IBS is also called functional bowel syndrome, irritable colon, spastic bowel and spastic colon. It's not the same as inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis.

Common symptoms of IBS to consider with IBS treatment:

• Bloating and gas
• Mucus in the stool
• Constipation
• Diarrhea, especially after eating or first thing in the morning
• Feeling like you still need to have a bowel movement after you've already had one
• Feeling a strong urge to have a bowel movement
• Abdominal pain and cramping that may go away after having a bowel movement

How is IBS diagnosed as one looks for IBS treatment?

Your doctor may start by asking you questions about your symptoms. If your symptoms have had a pattern over time, the pattern may make it clear to your doctor that IBS is the cause.

If your symptoms have just started, something else may be the cause. Your doctor may need to do some tests, such as a blood test or colonoscopy, to make sure that your symptoms aren't caused by something other than IBS.

What is IBS treatment?

The best IBS treatment is to eat a healthy diet, avoid foods that seem to make you feel worse and find ways to handle your stress.

Why may fiber be helpful in IBS treatment?

Fiber can be helpful in IBS treatment because it improves how the intestines work. There are 2 types of fiber: Soluble fiber helps both diarrhea and constipation. It dissolves in water and forms a gel-like material. Many foods contain soluble fiber such as apples, beans and citrus fruits. Psyllium, a natural vegetable fiber, is a also a soluble fiber. You can buy psyllium supplements (some brand names: Fiberall, Metamucil, Perdiem) to drink and you can add it to other foods. Insoluble fiber helps constipation by moving material through your digestive system and adding bulk to your stool. Insoluble fiber is in whole grain breads, wheat bran and many vegetables. Increase the fiber in your diet slowly when looking for IBS treatments. Some people feel bloated and have gas if they increase their fiber intake too quickly. Gas and bloating usually improve as you get used to eating more fiber. The best way to increase your fiber intake is eat a wide variety of high fiber foods.

Do certain foods cause IBS and is this considered IBS treatment?

Some foods can make you feel worse. You may have food sensitivities that complicate your symptoms. Click here to learn more about food senstivities and IBS!!

What about milk and milk products?

If milk and other dairy products bother you, you may have lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance means that your body can't digest lactose (the sugar in milk).

Dairy products may seem to make IBS symptoms worse if you're lactose intolerant. If this seems to be the case, you may need to limit the amount of milk and milk products in your diet. Click here to learn more about how food can affect IBS.

How can stress affect IBS?

Stress may trigger symptoms in people with IBS and should be considered with IBS treatment. There are ways to deal with stress, such as exercise, relaxation training or meditation. You may want to talk to a counselor about things that are bothering you as a adjunct IBS treatment.


Tips for IBS treatment and controlling IBS:

• Eat a varied healthy diet and avoid foods high in fat.
• Your IBS may be caused by specific food sensitvities. Click here to learn more!!
• Drink plenty of water.
• Try eating 6 small meals a day rather than 3 larger ones.
• Learn new and better ways to deal with your stress.
• Avoid using laxatives. They may weaken your intestines and cause you to be dependent on them.

(information for this articles obtained from familydoctor.org)