Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a chronic condition. It causes distressing abdominal symptoms and changes in bowel habits. Every person with IBS experiences the condition differently. Treatment options must be tailored to every individual and their symptoms. Before deciding which therapy might best treat your IBS symptoms, learning as much as possible about each treatment is important.
In most cases, the first line of therapy for people who struggle with IBS is to make dietary changes.
A low FODMAP diet works by avoiding foods with fermentable sugars called short-chain carbs. The diet works by first eliminating foods that contain FODMAPs. Later, they are slowly reintroduced. This helps you find the foods that trigger IBS symptoms. FODMAPs can be difficult for the stomach to handle. By eliminating them, the diet can improve IBS symptoms like bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort. It also helps to reduce the fluid pulled into the intestines. This, in turn, lowers the risk of diarrhea.
Some foods high in FODMAPs include foods that contain a lot of:
Click the link for a more complete list, including low-FODMAP foods.
Gluten is a protein found in certain grains, such as wheat, rye, and barley. Some with IBS find that cutting gluten-containing foods helps. This may reduce abdominal pain, bloating, and stool changes, like diarrhea or constipation.
Dairy is a common trigger for people who struggle with IBS due to difficulty digesting the lactose in these products. When lactose cannot be digested properly, gut bacteria ferment it, causing gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Increasing dietary fiber can be a great way to help with IBS symptoms. Fiber adds bulk to the stool, allowing it to hold onto more water so it remains soft and easy to pass. Low-fiber diets can worsen IBS symptoms. A daily intake of 25-30 grams is recommended.
If diet changes haven’t improved your IBS, your doctor may recommend one of the following medications.
The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but for some people, an imbalance of healthy gut bacteria can worsen symptoms. Probiotics can help restore normal gut flora, which in turn helps to reduce gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and constipation.
IBS can cause painful and sometimes even debilitating abdominal cramping. Antispasmotic medications can reduce abdominal cramping in IBS by relaxing gut muscles.
Laxatives can be helpful for people who struggle with constipation related to IBS. Over-the-counter options like Miralax or Dulcolax may be enough. In more severe cases, prescription medications like linaclotide (Linzess) or lubiprostone (Amitiza) may be prescribed.
If your IBS is associated with diarrhea, medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help improve stool quality.
There is some evidence that shows a low-dose antidepressant can help people with IBS. It works by reducing pain signals in the abdomen and improving bowel function.
The gut is often known as a “second brain.” How it interacts with your mind is known as the “gut-brain axis.” IBS is linked to a disruption in this connection. Many with IBS benefit from mental health therapies due to the interplay between the two systems.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help manage anxiety and stress. These are often linked to IBS symptoms.
Mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can help. They work to relax the body, reduce stress, and ease some IBS symptoms.
Peppermint has been used for centuries to help alleviate specific GI symptoms. It is a natural antispasmotic, relaxing the intestines, which may help with cramping, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. However, if you struggle with heartburn, peppermint may make it worse.
Exercise is essential to maintaining a healthy body and mind. Regular physical activity has been shown to help regulate the gastrointestinal system and reduce stress, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.
Good-quality sleep is vital for your body. Getting enough rest can help you manage IBS symptoms. People who do not get the recommended amount of sleep per night often have worse IBS symptoms.
IBS can disrupt your life. The good news? Many therapies can help. They can ease your symptoms and restore your well-being. The first step is getting a diagnosis. Meeting with a gastroenterologist is the first step on the path to freedom from bothersome IBS symptoms.
Don’t continue to suffer from irritable bowel syndrome symptoms – schedule an appointment today!
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