How To Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal disorder that causes a negative impact on the large intestine. Main signs and symptoms of IBS are cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both in some cases. It is a chronic condition and requires long term management. Some people suffering from IBS experience severe symptoms. Many patients are able to  control the symptoms by improving poor lifestyle such as healthy diet and less stress. The severe symptoms of this condition can be treated with doctor prescribed medicines. IBS does not lead to any changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. The signs and symptoms of IBS from patient to patient but are mostly present for a prolonged period of time. Common symptoms of this intestinal disorder are abdominal pain, cramping and changes in the bowel movement such as diarrhea or constipation. The exact cause behind IBS is still unknown, but some risk factors include infection, stress and certain foods. You can treat irritable bowel syndrome through medical options and there are many home remedies that can help as well. Onlymyhealth editorial team talked to Dr. Ravindra B S, Director-Gastroenterologist, Fortis BG Road, about the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome or IBS.  How to treat irritable bowel syndrome or IBS?  There is no specific test to diagnose IBS. There is a higher chance of the doctor to start diagnosis with a complete medical history, physical exam and tests to rule out any other conditions, such as celiac disease and colon cancer. There is no bleeding in stool in IBS. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome is basically about relieving symptoms so that you can normalise your day to day life. According to Dr. Ravindra, here are 5 recommended treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS):  1. Avoid trigger foods If you experience bloating, diarrhea or constipation, it is best to avoid food items such as carbonated and alcoholic drinks and certain other foods that can aggravate the symptoms. Foods such as excessive meat, oily and spice foods should not be consumed of you are suffering from this syndrome. You can talk to your doctor about eating probiotics that are good bacteria and can be digested easily without acting as a trigger.   2. No smoking  Smoking is also one of the major triggers of intestinal problems. Tobacco is known to be an irritant for your digestive tract and does not end well. It can worsen the symptoms and become a cause for bloating, gas and stomach pain. Therefore, it is best to restrict smoking for treating irritable bowel syndrome or IBS.  Also read: What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Know All The Signs And Symptoms 3. Exercise  Exercise can help in the management of depression and excessive stress. Moreover, it helps in enhancing the contractions of your intestines, and can make you feel better. You can ask your doctor about an exercise plan and do it for atleast 30 minutes daily. Practicing yoga and aerobic exercises everyday as it will relieve stress from your mind and body.  4. Prescribed medicines for symptoms Certain people experiencing severe symptoms of IBS might be prescribed medications by the doctor to treat them. The medical treatment is symptom specific and should only be taken if advised by the doctor. From laxatives to antibiotics, there are many medicines that can help with this intestinal syndrome.  Also read: Foods You Can Have When Suffering From Irritable Bowel Syndrome 5. FODMAPs The bodies of some people are extremely sensitive to some carbohydrates including fructose, fructans, lactose and many others, named as FODMAPs - fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols. FODMAPs are usually found in various grains, vegetables, fruits and dairy products. Do not self diagnose and let the doctor reach a conclusion regarding this treatment option.