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One of my college students had IBS, and I learned about his struggles of coping with IBS on a daily basis from his sharing of information and experiences with me.

Are you sure that your friend has IBS, or could she have a more serious intestinal disorder/disease, like Chron's or ulcerative colitis?

Depending on the type of symptoms your friend is experiencing (ie, constipation, diarrhea and/or gas), dictates what type of OTC or prescription medicine she would be prescribed.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the good news for IBS sufferers is that IBS "does not cause inflammation or changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer."

"In many cases, you can control irritable bowel syndrome by managing your diet, lifestyle and stress." Do you know what your friend already does in the "diet, lifestyle or stress" departments to control her IBS?

Here are a few good resources and strategies/treatment options, depending on what her doctor suggests:
- Fiber supplements (may help control constipation)
- Anti-diarrheal medications
- Eliminating high-gas foods (carbonated beverages, salads, raw fruits and vegetables, cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower)
- Anticholinergic medications (relieve painful bowel spasms)
- Antidepressant medications
- Counseling, if stress tends to worsen your symptoms
- Other stress-reduction techniques: bio-feedback, accupressure, meditation, yoga, exercise
- Antiobiotics may help

Resources:
- IBS on MedlinePlus and JAMA
- IBS Support Group

She can check out IBS Support Groups through local hospitals or health organizations, as there are many geared to just women, or certain populations.