Self-help Irritable Bowel Syndrome Solutions
July 8, 2009 by Admin
Filed under IBS - Free Content
The condition manifests itself at any age, in males and females, most commonly as mild or severe abdominal pain, with or without a bloated abdomen feeling, often accompanied by alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation. In diagnosing this condition today it is recognised that there are psychological and medical factors to be considered, whereas for many years, Irritable Bowel Syndrome solutions were determined by considering only the so-called “brain-gut” link, and ignoring lifestyle in general.
There are a number of self-help Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) solutions that may well reduce, or even cure, the condition however, the symptoms may also indicate other underlying medical conditions, so a visit to the doctor is recommended. Natural remedial actions are recommended before considering over the counter medications that may give temporary relief but ignore the long-term underlying problem.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Stress
It is rcognised that psychological factors contribute to bowel disorders, and stress is the number one condition that affects health and plays a part in IBS. This stress may include anxiety over job loss, divorce, family death, insolvency, existing health problems, fears of examinations and even passing the driving test. Relaxation and stress management techniques will enable identification of a particular stress source and then removing it from the equation will go far in reliving IBS. Also, exercise is a tremendous way of reducing the stress in life apart from helping to keep daily bowel movements regular.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Diet
As in so many health related problems, the importance of diet cannot be over-estimated, and as different foods have varying effects on the body, Irritable Bowel Syndrome solutions may well be found in a diet change. Missing out foods suspected of triggering the problem on a one by one basis will identify those that bring on IBS and various nutritional supplements will enhance a deficient diet.
Depending on the predominant symptom, diet modifications help and constipation requires a higher intake of fruit, vegetables and other foods with a high fibre content, while diarrhoea requires a reduction in caffeine content, spicy foods and alcohol. Similarly, removing beans from the diet will reduce the tendency to flatulence.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Medication
Apart from prescription medications there are any number of over-the-counter medications readily available as well as natural preparations. “Imodium” is good for diarrhoea and “Lactulose” for constipation. Natural preparations such as Probiotics as found in yoghurt should not be ignored although their effectiveness is doubtful, as are traditional Chinese remedies as Self-Help Irritable Bowel Syndrome solutions.
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By: Raj Kumar
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