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There is no cure for IBS. However many people are able to control their symptoms with lifestyle modifications, stress management, and medications. Therefore, treatment tends to focus on managing the condition by reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms.
There are some steps you can take to help with:
What you eat plays a major role in treating your IBS. The first consideration is adequate nutrition. Because you may decide to avoid certain foods because they cause symptoms, make sure you are not missing out on essential nutrients. For example, if you avoid dairy products, it may be difficult to meet your calcium needs. You may need to take a calcium supplement. A registered dietitian can help you determine if your diet is complete and how best to supplement it.
There are some foods more likely to cause symptoms in people with IBS. However, reactions to foods are very individualized, and you may find that foods other than those listed here also cause symptoms.
Here are some tips:
IBS can disrupt your life. It is very stressful to worry about having poor bowel control. Also, emotional stress is strongly linked to worsening of symptoms.
Consider counseling or others methods of reducing your stress. These include:
A comfortable working relationship with your physician is critical to effective treatment. Find someone with whom you feel comfortable and stay in regular contact. Be sure to report any new symptoms or significant worsening of others.
References:
American College of Gastroenterology website. Available at: http://www.acg.gi.org/ . Accessed March 3, 2006.
American Gastroenterological Association website. Available at: http://www.gastro.org/ . Accessed March 3, 2006.
American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.fascrs.org/ . Accessed March 3, 2006.
Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine . 14th ed. New York, NY: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2000.
Last reviewed September 2009 by Daus Mahnke, MD
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.
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