Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
What is that Gut-wrenching Feeling in My Stomach?
Though Irritable bowel syndrome is not life-threatening, its symptoms can be very painful and debilitating.
If the muscles in the gut wall have "contractions" which don't coordinate properly, then various combination's of pain can occur, bringing with it diarrhea and constipation.
This affliction, for some reason, occur more often in younger to middle-aged women but the condition can affect anyone. It is estimated that about a third of the population has the symptoms at some time in their life and 15 percent will suffer regularly.
Remember the last time you had a stomachache, and diarrhea or the discomfort of constipation and then imagine having to suffer from these maladies on a regular basis. It would be very difficult to function at work, or feel like life was "normal," or joyful. To constantly be in cramp-like pain in the abdomen is distressing and depressing.
Some of the other symptoms of IBS is excessive wind, swelling of the abdomen, malaise, back pain and feeling full half way through a meal. Other symptoms may include a reduced appetite, tiredness and feelings of faintness.
There is no abnormality of the structure of the abdomen, so it is thought that it is food intolerance's, anxiety and stress that are the factors in disturbing the involuntary muscle movement of the large intestine.
What if anything can't be done for IBS?
To rule out more serious conditions such as Crohn's disease or cancer of the bowel you must consult your physician for examination of the gut. If it is found that you have irritable bowel syndrome, these are some of the standard treatments:
*a high fiber diet
*short courses of ant-diarrheal drugs as well as anti-depressants
*Antispasmodic drugs
*Doctors will test for lactose intolerance, food allergies and gut infections
Some of the natural remedies are:
*Therapies to help with a positive mental attitude
*relaxation and stress therapies, which may include learning self massaging techniques on the bowel area.
*meditation to reduce stress and anxiety
Irritable bowel is sometimes associated with an unbalanced diet plan or food intolerances. A whole eating plan will be advised, with foods high in fiber such as bran. Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and their juices, would be of great benefit as well.
Healing Foods
Rye
Healing Herbs
Mint
Cat's claw
Herbal tea remedies such as peppermint and the calming tea, chamomile will be advised.
Healing Supplements
Psylliumhttp://www.healingfoodreference.com/irritable_bowel_syndrome.html
Though it is wise to seek the help of a physician, attempting natural remedies will not hurt and will more than likely help in achieving the best health and immunity possible. Taking responsibility for our health by attempting to do all we can in a holistic manner builds our self-esteem, and helps with anxiety and depression.
*I am not a doctor, this article is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your physician if you the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/ibs/
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/irritable-bowel-syndrome/DS00106/DSECTION=symptoms
Published by Christine Daniel
I have my first aid and CPR certificate, as well as a certificate in Fitness and nutrition. I also have article 9 training, which is training that focuses on the rights of the handicapped and disabled. I am... View profile
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