Irritable bowel syndrome (I.B.S.) is a common disorder that affects the stomach and intestines. Although it is not considered life-threatening, it can be very uncomfortable. Let’s quickly look at the symptoms of this stomach-destabilising condition.
Symptoms
A few people with I.B.S. have chronic symptoms, while some can control their symptoms by simply managing their diet and lifestyle. The symptoms include;
Abdominal pain
This is usually in the lower half of the abdomen and is related to passing a bowel movement.
Bloating
The stomach may feel swollen or full, which can be uncomfortable.
Constipation
You may experience difficulty in emptying the bowels, usually associated with hardened faeces.
Diarrhoea
You may have a watery poo and frequent faeces discharge.
How can I reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?
Although preventing I.B.S. is almost impossible, the effects can be reduced and managed. Similarly, nearly everyone with I.B.S. can find a treatment to aid healthy lifestyle habits.
—Increase intake of high-fibre foods: You can increase your fibre (a required dosage) intake as a doctor recommends. Food containing fibre prevents bloating and abdominal discomfort.
—Avoid food that triggers: Start taking note of the food you eat over a given time and the reaction after intake. Food like spicy, caffeine, carbonated drinks, and fried and fatty foods can trigger digestive symptoms.
—Manage stress: You may ask what the relationship between I.B.S. and anxiety is? Well beyond diet, stress can trigger I.B.S. symptoms, and research proves that some stress-reducing activities can ease wind and pain, cramping, and bloating. Always keep a calm mind.
—Peppermint oil: Not peppermint candy but oil has a calming effect on the intestine muscle by relaxing them.
—Exercise regularly: aerobic exercise can help with digestion by relieving symptoms like bloating and constipation, and it is also a stress reliever.
—Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is crucial for your overall health and can help digestion. To save the details, it aids in the easy passage of food.
Other treatments may include psychological treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy. This is one mainly considered with people with chronic symptoms who must meet a therapist.
I.B.S. is one of the most common disorders, and patients who fail to respond to first-line treatment, like older patients, may be referred to second-line therapy.
