Gastronic Dr.
Prevent the flare-ups of IBS, Crohn's Disease, gastritis, acid reflux, ulcerative colitis and diverticulosis.
Natural Cures and Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common digestive conditions seen by doctors and is estimated to affect approximately 20% of the US population.
This ailment of the bowels and large intestine is characterized by recurring bouts of abdominal pain or discomfort, also intermittent diarrhea or constipation. This makes IBS a very frustrating condition to deal with. Some other symptoms may include cramping, abdominal bloating, gas, nausea, headaches, fatigue and an urgency to empty the bowels.
How To Diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome
There is no test that can confirm IBS, and so the diagnostic process is one of elimination. Your health care provider will take a detailed medical history from you and inquire about all of your symptoms, which will be checked against the diagnostic criteria for IBS.
A number of other tests can be done to rule out other possible conditions that may present in a similar way to IBS. Conditions that may mimic IBS include intestinal infections, food allergies, Crohn’s disease, parasites, colon cancer, an inflammation or blockage of the colon and other digestion problems.
Your doctor will be able to determine the tests necessary according to various factors such as age, symptoms present and the severity of the symptoms. These tests may include a complete blood count, urinalysis, a stool sample analysis, rectal exam, liver function tests, abdominal X-rays, and/or a colonoscopy.
What Are The Causes Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
The cause of Irritable bowel syndrome is not known, although symptoms are related to abnormal muscle contractions or spasms of the lower part of the colon. Problems in communication between the bowel and the brain are also noted.
Common triggers of the condition are diet and stress. Keeping this in mind, symptoms can be greatly reduced by managing stress and anxiety levels, and paying attention to the foods that may aggravate your condition.
Other Factors That Contribute to Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Other factors that may contribute to IBS are overeating, sensitivity to foods (especially dairy), smoking, eating too quickly, use of antibiotics and other prescription drugs, candida overgrowth, as well as hormonal changes (accuring during the menstrual cycle).
Since IBS is often affected by diet, eliminating or reducing certain foods from can greatly relieve symptoms.
Trigger foods often include:
Gassy vegetables such as beans, cabbage, and cauliflower
Alcohol
Spicy and fatty foods
Caffeinated drinks
Artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol and aspartame
Also, it may help to increase your intake of dietary fiber and to drink lots of water in order to flush out toxins and detox your body.
Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS need not be a life-long problem with on-going discomfort. There are several treatment options that you can look into to help you manage IBS flare-ups, deal with the symptoms and lead a normal life.
Medical treatment will usually involve antidepressants , antidiarrhea medications, laxatives, and antispasmodic medication. Many of these drugs have side effects and therefore should be taken under the supervision of your health care provider.
Some alternative treatments that may be helpful include acupuncture, probiotics, herbal and homeopathic remedies, colonic irrigation as well as diet and lifestyle changes.
Natural Remedies
While there are many over-the-counter and prescription drugs to treat digestive problems and disorders such as IBS, they tend to have side effects that can lead to disruptions in delicate body systems.
Also, they can cause a weakened immune system, disruption in intestinal flora and electrolyte imbalances which may worsen the problems associated with IBS. For this reason, people are turning to natural remedies to treat IBS and other related conditions.
Herbals such as meadowsweet, German chamomile,ulmus fulva and sutherlandia frutescens have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and digestive properties that make them effective in preventing IBS flare ups. In addition to these, there are a number of herbal ingredients that can immediately relieve IBS symptoms.
Mentha piperita in particular is widely known as a treatment for IBS. This herb works at relieving cramps and relaxing the muscles of the digestive tract -- effectively calming irritable bowels and reducing stomach pain.
Other helpful herbs include fennel, ginger and pelargoneum graveolens. Always get your herbs from a reputable company to ensure effectiveness, safety and correct therapeutic dosage.
