Treatment
There is no cure for IBS. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms.
Diet
The following changes to your diet may help control symptoms:
- Keep a food diary of what you eat and how your body responds. Share this with your doctor. You may have a food allergy.
- Make gradual changes to your diet. Record the results.
- Avoid foods that have caused problems in the past. A dietitian can help you substitute foods.
- Avoid foods and drinks that may cause symptoms:
-
Eat foods that may reduce the chance of spasm, such as:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains and other high-fiber foods (More fiber may increase gas and bloating until your body adjusts.)
- Eat smaller meals more often or smaller portions.
- Eat slowly and try not to swallow air.
- Drink plenty of water. This will help to reduce constipation.
Stress Management
Talk to your doctor about ways to reduce stress , such as:
- Relaxation
- Biofeedback
- Counseling
- Exercise (This also improves bowel function.)
Medication
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe:
- Antibiotic ( Rifaximin may help symptoms for several months.)
- Antispasmodic agent (eg, dicyclomine )
- High-fiber bulking agent (eg, psyllium )
- Antidiarrheal agent (eg, loperamide )
- Low-dose antidepressant
- Peppermint oil
- Pain reliever (eg, acetaminophen )—A study showed modest benefit of acetaminophen for treatment of crampy abdominal pain in patients with IBS. *¹
-
Serotonin receptor agonists and antagonists—may be helpful for women (eg,
alosetron
for
diarrhea)
- Note: Tegaserod, a medicine used for constipation, was withdrawn from the market in March 2007. This was due to a slightly increased risk of heart attack , angina , and stroke . *²
- Probiotics ("friendly" bacteria)—may be helpful, but talk to your doctor before taking
- Peppermint oil* ³
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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