IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Devon is a common, LONG term condition of the digestion system.

It can cause all sorts of problems such as stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and/or constipation. The symptom isn’t the same for everyone. It varies and changes. It can affect people more severely than others.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome tends to come and go in periods lasting a few days to a few months at a time. Most occur during times of stress or after eating certain foods.

Some symptoms can be found to improve after going to the toilet.

IBS often develops when a person is between 20 to 30 years of age. Around twice as many women are affected as men.

The condition is often life-long, although it may improve over several years.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of IBS are abdominal stomach pain and cramping, which may be relieved by going to the toilet.

A change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation or sometimes both

Bloating and swelling of your stomach

Excessive wind (flatulence)

Occasionally experiencing an urgent need to go to the toilet

A feeling that you have not fully emptied your bowels after going to the toilet

Passing mucus from your bottom

IBS can be helped by altering your diet and lifestyle.

 

For example, it may help to:

• Identify and possibly avoid foods or drinks that trigger your symptoms
• Alter the amount of fibre in your diet
• Exercise regularly
• Reduce your stress levels

 

Living with IBS

Living with IBS can be somewhat difficult. You can go for months with no symptoms then have a sudden flare-up. The condition can be quite painful and have a negative impact on your quality of life and emotional state

Treatments for IBS

Hypnotherapy – Hypnotherapy, relaxation training, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have all been shown to help alleviate symptoms of IBS.

Allergy Testing – Allergy testing can help with symptoms of IBS by figuring out which foods, substances, and drinks make the IBS symptoms flare up.

Acupuncture – Acupuncture is a popular alternative therapy for IBS and other conditions. It’s proven effective for treating chronic pain