April is National Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized by a group of symptoms in which abdominal pain or discomfort is associated with a change in bowel pattern, such as loose or more frequent bowel movements, diarrhea, and/or constipation. IBS affects approximately 10 - 15% or more of the general population, and it is the most common disease diagnosed by gastroenterologists. mmpc Gastroenterology offers the following suggestions for coping with IBS:
· Keep a diary to help you and your doctor determine what aggravates IBS. Journal everything you’re eating and when, how much you’re exercising and when, and what your moods and are what causes stress in your life.
· Learn how to relax and reduce stress. Stress tends to exacerbate IBS. In fact, some sufferers have their most serious bouts of IBS soon after a stressful situation.
· Exercise. Activity helps the digestive system work properly. Exercise can also aid IBS sufferers by distracting them from their symptoms and by promoting the release of endorphins, the body's feel-good hormones that help control pain.
· Take a deep breath when stressed. This is the quickest, easiest way to release tension from your body when there's no time for exercise or more-involved relaxation techniques
· Eat more slowly. If you gobble down your food, you're more likely to swallow air, which can travel through the digestive system in the form of intestinal gas. Chewing gum can also cause you to swallow air.
· Eat several smaller meals. Large meals can overload the digestive system, causing cramping and diarrhea. Smaller, more frequent meals over the course of the day are easier for the body to handle.
· Increase your fiber intake. Fiber, well known as an aid in relieving constipation, may help ease IBS symptoms as well, for both patients with constipation as well as diarrhea. Fresh fruits and vegetables and whole-grain breads and cereals are all good sources of fiber. Bulk up your diet gradually, however, to give your body a chance to adjust. And be sure to drink plenty of water to keep that bulk moving along smoothly.
· Cut down on caffeine. Found in coffee, tea, chocolate, cola, and even some medications, caffeine can stimulate the intestines and cause heartburn and cramping.
· Trim the fat in your diet.
· Watch your use of laxatives.
· Cut back on alcohol.
· Don't smoke.
If you are suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, contact your mmpc primary care physician for an evaluation. Our physicians will work with you to help relieve your symptoms! And if your physician feels that a referral to a mmpc gastroenterologist is necessary, then take comfort in the fact our specialists are second to none when it comes to caring for digestive disorders! Visit us at www.mmpc.com for more details.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, E-Medicine, Famly Doctor, About IBS.org
