ibs

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Information and Help

Irritable bowel syndrome, also called IBS, is a very common chronic ailment not only in the United States but throughout the world. People who suffer from IBS have to deal with symptoms such as stomach cramps, frequent diarrhea, gas, bloating, nausea and frequent bouts of constipation. It affects men and women, children and even infants. Their currently is no cure for the disorder however there is a variety of medicines and natural remedies that can help prevent and reduce undesirable symptoms. Some IBS sufferers have successfully used hypnotherapy to reduce their IBS symptoms. Irritable bowel syndrome information provided by doctors and researchers can be valuable sources for people who suffer from IBS.

Doctors can provide relief from IBS symptoms by prescribing drugs such as anti-spasmodic medications (dicyclomine and hyoscyamine). If you suffer form frequent bouts of diarrhea your physician might prescribe drugs such as loperamide, kaolin/pectin mixture or diphenoxylate/atropine to help you stop the diarrhea. Stool softeners are recommended for those who have constipation.

There are plenty of sources of information for irritable bowel syndrome on the internet. Healing Well resource center offers a wide variety of information and they have a forum available for IBS sufferers who can share information and discuss what therapies and medications actually work for them and which don't seem to work. You can also provide emotional support for people and receive emotional support from people who have experienced what you are dealing with. You can also check out the American College of Gastroenterology website.

IBS and Children

When you review the irritable bowel syndrome information that is available you will discover that children and babies can also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Children usually complain of having diarrhea or constipation. Doctors rarely prescribe medicine for children who have IBS. It is sometimes caused in children by stress, too much fat in their diet, a poor diet or not enough soluble fiber in their meals. If you think your child has IBS symptoms and not just the normal amount of bouts of diarrhea that typically occur in children you should take your child to your pediatrician. Most of them are knowledgeable sources for irritable bowel syndrome information and remedies.

Diet for IBS

If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome make sure you have a substantial amount of soluble fiber in your diet. Soluble fiber can be found in most foods that are located in the starch category. Be sure to drink a lot of water when you increase the amount of soluble fiber you place in your meals. Soluble fiber is a great natural remedy for stopping or avoiding diarrhea and constipation. Some people will want to increase their soluble fiber and also use some IBS medications. There are numerous sources for irritable bowel syndrome information that can be helpful to you.