Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome) symptoms include: gas, bloating, indigestion, heartburn, reflux, GERD, constipation, diarrhea (or both), abnormal bowel urgency, pain, cramps, vomiting, blood and mucous.

There are no specific causes for IBS, however certain factors such as food, stress, certain medications (antibiotics), physical activity, chronic alcohol abuse, and other acute illnesses can trigger IBS.

The gastrointestinal tract is an extremely complex system controlled by many internal nerves and hormones. It is clear that both the secretions and motility of the intestine are affected by the type of food eaten, the frequency and environment of eating, and by various medications. Additionally, the gastrointestinal system is very sensitive to adrenaline, the hormone that is released when one is excited, fearful, or anxious, and possibly to other hormones as well.

Adjusting lifestyle may help control some of these stimuli reactions and using appropriate medications may relieve specific symptoms. In their busy lives, people have very little time to eat properly and the time they have allotted for their bowels to move may be rushed. Some individuals may be helped by allowing lots of time for their bathroom routine.

IBS patients do not produce more gas than the non-IBS population, but they are extra-sensitive to having it pass through their intestines. The way that the person with IBS produces gas in the digestive tract may be different than that of a normal-functioning bowel. It may be helpful for IBS patients to reduce ingestion of swallowed air - the major source of intestinal gas - and avoid gas-producing foods.

Homeopathy
IBS can be easily managed and eliminated on a properly prescribed treatment plan which includes several diet and lifestyle changes along with medicinal support. Medicinally treatments will address specific symptoms and causes of IBS such as food choices, stress, over eating, and even pre-existing health conditions. The benefit of homeopathy is the ability to gain healthier gut function and bowel regularity without suffering from side effects and addictiveness of the prescribed medication. More about homoepathy...