- Although Irritable Bowel Syndrome is often confused with constipation, they are not really the same thing.
- In this case it is a chronic condition and the symptoms usually come and go over time.
- Although there are medical treatments, making some lifestyle changes can help reduce discomfort.
Although medications can be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, not all people who suffer from this disorder require or need medication. For some, symptoms (especially when mild) are managed with lifestyle adjustments, such as diet changes, stress management, and regular exercise.
The Dr Robert Kraichelyof gastroenterology in Mayo Clinic of Rochester, Minnesota, explains how This syndrome affects the large intestine and sometimes the small intestine as well. It is also related to intestinal irregularities such as diarrhea or constipation.
The intestinal walls are lined with muscular layers that contract and relax in a coordinated rhythm as they move food through the digestive system. In the irritable bowel syndrome, those contractions may be stronger or more noticeable than normal. This leads to abdominal cramping and pain as food, gas, or stool moves through the intestines.
In diagnosed people it is important to keep in mind that Some abdominal problems are not related to this disorder and may instead be signs of other underlying discomfort.
Symptoms that particularly require timely medical attention include the following: blood in the stool, rapid or unexplained weight loss, constant or severe abdominal pain, unexplained vomiting, severe pain or difficulty swallowing, and an abdominal tumor or mass.
The irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition and symptoms often come and go over time. There is no cure, but symptoms are usually relieved by diet, lifestyle, and stress control.
Necessary lifestyle changes
More than 60 percent of people with irritable bowel syndrome say their symptoms are related in some way to food. However, since symptoms vary considerably from person to person, it is difficult to give specific dietary advice that will work for everyone. suffer from this disorder.
Usually, Many people with irritable bowel syndrome find it helpful to eat high-fiber foods and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid foods and beverages that contribute to gas and bloating, such as alcoholic and carbonated beverages, caffeine, raw fruit, and vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. Reducing or eliminating gluten can relieve diarrhea related to irritable bowel syndrome.
Studies show that certain carbohydrates, known as fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and gas in people with irritable bowel syndrome. These carbohydrates are present in certain fruits and vegetables, in wheat, in rye, in legumes, in foods that contain lactose (such as milk, cheese, and yogurt), and in artificial sweeteners.
Following a diet low in these carbohydrates can relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. However, since many foods contain these compounds, it is difficult for patients to make a diet on their own. It pays, then, to find a dietician who knows irritable bowel syndrome well. A dietitian can review a patient’s symptoms and nutritional needs, recommend dietary changes, and develop a personalized meal plan that relieves symptoms.
The stress also affects irritable bowel syndrome and high stress events are related to an increase in symptoms. Applying stress-reduction techniques and engaging in stress-relieving activities, such as yoga and meditation, can decrease stress flare-ups. Working with a therapist or counselor experienced in stress management, mindfulness, and behavior modification also helps people with irritable bowel syndrome better manage stress and relieve symptoms.
Similarly, it is recommended that people with irritable bowel syndrome who exercise regularly. Being physically active every day relieves stress, stimulates normal contractions of the intestine and promotes general well-being.