Photo Credit: Andy Nowack/istock

Text Size:

If you relate to the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is still important to get an official diagnosis. Diagnostic tools include stool studies, colonoscopy, and functional assessments of the gastrointestinal tract. Other diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease or microscopic colitis have similar symptoms and must be ruled out in order to receive accurate treatment.

There is no treatment that works for everyone. It is important to talk with your health care professional and design a treatment plan the fits your needs. Start to notice what may be triggering the symptoms. Start to log the foods you eat into a journal. Write any symptoms you experience after eating those foods down too and share this information with your health professional.

For some people with IBS, ceratin foods may trigger the symptoms. Avoiding such foods as caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods (french fries) may relieve symptoms. If diarrhea is your main symptom limit dairy products and artificial sweeteners. Also increasing fiber in your diet may relieve constipation. Getting regular exercise may reduce tension and symptoms. There are also medications which include anticholinergics for cramping, loperamide for diarrhea, and sometimes antidepressant or anti-anxiety drugs are prescribed. Stress management or relaxation exercise may also reduce your symptoms. For more, check out WebMd.com and MayoClinic.org.

Comments / Post a comment