Is it just indigestion or is it IBS?

Persistent indigestion, nausea, gas, belching, painful bloating and cramps, diarrhea, and/or constipation may be related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a disorder associated with extra sensitivity of the digestive muscles and nerves. Although IBS cannot be cured, symptoms may be managed and relieved with certain alternative treatments. Conventional Response Complementary & Alternative Response After taking a thorough history, your doctor will perform a physical exam, and very likely After being diagnosed with IBS, there are blood and stool tests. He or she may also several complementary & alternative (CAM) order an intestinal X-ray and an endoscopic approaches you can integrate into your (sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy) exam. Once medical treatment. tests rule out more serious disorders and IBS is diagnosed, management of the condition Among mind-body techniques, controlled can begin. breathing, guided imagery and meditation can be helpful. Yoga is a proven stress-reducer, and Eliminating or reducing certain foods from some postures may provide relief from gas and your diet is a basic first step. You may be asked bloating. Massage therapy and acupuncture to keep a diary to track whether symptoms promote healing, reduce pain and induce are related to particular foods — fatty foods, physical relaxation to smooth the flow of milk products, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol bodily functions. and carbonated drinks are common triggers Nutritional programs can go beyond of IBS. You may also be urged to increase eliminating food triggers and increasing fiber. dietary fiber; most people can tolerate raw For example, half an ounce of lemon juice in apples, peaches, cabbage, and carrots, as well an eight ounce glass of warm water or two to as kidney and lima beans, whole grain cereals, three prunes daily may relieve constipation; and breads. if you have bloating, spasms and diarrhea, try a short-term diet of dry toast, bananas, Medications may be appropriate, although applesauce, and rice. Acidophilus and Bifidus only under a doctor’s supervision as overuse bacteria replace tablets work to add to normal can lead to dependency. Antispasmodic healthy intestinal bacteria. And powdered drugs reduce the violent contractions of psyllium or flaxseed, two natural laxatives, can the intestinal muscles by lessening painful relieve or prevent constipation. Food triggers, cramping as well as the frequency and volume such as fermented foods, milk sugar (lactose) of bowel movements. Ordinary laxatives can and wheat products or excess carbohydrates treat short-term constipation. may vary from person to person, so trial-and- error changes in your diet may Lifestyle and exercise should also be examined. be needed. While stress does not cause IBS, constant Herbal teas, particularly chamomile, spearmint anxiety can increase symptoms in anyone with and peppermint, can calm an upset stomach. a highly reactive digestive system. Increasing Take time out to really enjoy the tea and you low-stress physical activity may help. will get the double benefit of relaxation, too.

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