Are you suffering from IBS

Almost everyone experiences an occasional bout with abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhoea or constipation. However, if you are having it very frequently or if they have become chronic, chances are that you may be suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is one of the most common gastro intestinal disorder although this disorder is not a serious one but its impact one ones life can be tremendous. Chronic and recurring symptoms of IBS can disrupt personal and professional activities, upset emotional well being and limit individual potential.

What is IBS and what causes it?

IBS or irritable bowel syndrome is not a disease. It’s a functional disorder, which means that the bowel (large intestine) are not functioning properly, though physically, there is nothing wrong with it.. With IBS, the nerves and muscles in the bowel are extra-sensitive. For example, the muscles may contract too much when you eat. These contractions can cause cramping and diarrhoea during or shortly after a meal.

The exact cause of IBS is not known. Symptoms appear to result from a disturbance in the interaction between the gut, brain, and nervous system that alters regulation of bowel motor or sensory function. IBS is not caused by stress. However, because of the connection between the brain and the gut, symptoms can be exacerbated or triggered by stress. Certain food substances are also known to have a disturbing affect on IBS patients eg. Milk, caffeine etc.

What is its symptom?

IBS is characterised by abdominal pain or discomfort and abnormal bowel function, which may include chronic diarrhoea, chronic constipation, or an alternating pattern of both. Patients may feel a sensation of not being able to fully empty their bowels. Other symptoms may include gas and bloating, as well as nausea.

How Can Homoeopathy Help?

IBS is a spectrum disorder, which means that there can be a great variety of symptoms and also that their intensity can range from very mild to severe. Primarily, homeopathy is a method where the individual symptoms of patients are given more preference than the labels of the disease and are matched with those of the drug. Thus targeting diseases like IBS with homeopathy becomes much more easy and flexible approach. Disorders like IBS are much effectively treated by it. Although it may take a while before appreciable results are achieved., One must keep in mind that the goal is not to have a temporary relief, but a permanent one.

Homeopathic medicines Nux Vomica, Colocynth, Aloes, Sulphur, Carbo Veg, China, Lycopodium are few of the very effective ones that are often employed by expert homeopaths in treating irritable bowel syndrome.

Please make sure that such conditions are not treated without the help of a professional Homoeopath.

Managing IBS

Experiment with fiber.

When you have IBS, fiber can be a mixed blessing. Although it helps reduce constipation, it can also make diarrhoea, gas and cramping worse. The best approach is to gradually increase the amount of fiber in your diet over a period of weeks.

Avoid problem foods.

If certain foods make your symptoms worse, don’t eat them. Common culprits include alcohol, chocolate, and caffeinated beverages such as coffee and sodas,

Eat at regular times.

Don’t skip meals, and try to eat about the same time each day to help regulate bowel function.

Take care with dairy products.

They usually are the biggest culprits in IBS. If you’re lactose intolerant, try substituting yogurt for milk

Exercise regularly.

Exercise helps relieve depression and stress, stimulates normal contractions of your intestines and can help you feel better about yourself..