IBS

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How is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) diagnosed?

The symptoms of IBS are varied and inconsistent among patients. Moreover, there are no characteristically abnormal tests that can be used to diagnose IBS. All of this has made it difficult to define IBS and identify patients, especially for research studies. In 1992, a group of international investigators of gastrointestinal diseases met in Rome and developed a set of criteria to be used for diagnosing IBS. The criteria were modified in 1999 and again in 2006. These three sets of criteria are known as the Rome, I, II, and III criteria.

The the most recent criteria, the Rome III criteria state that in order to be diagnosed with IBS, a patient should have abdominal discomfort or discomfort (not described as pain) at least once weekly for at least two months. The discomfort should be associated with two out of three of the following features:

Relief with a bowel movement
Onset associated with a change in the frequency of bowel movement
Onset associated with a change in the form (appearance) of stool

There should be no evidence of an inflammatory, anatomic (obstructive), metabolic, or neoplastic (tumorous) cause of the symptoms.

Symptoms of dyspepsia (defined by Rome III criteria as abdominal discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen), abdominal distention, and increased flatus (passing gas, or flatulence) do not fall within this definition. Nevertheless, many patients have these symptoms along with the symptoms of IBS. It is not clear if these patients have one problem (IBS) or more than one problem.

What are the complications of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

The complications of functional diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are relatively limited. Since the symptoms are often provoked by eating, patients who alter their diets and reduce their intake of calories may lose weight. Fortunately, loss of weight is unusual in functional diseases, and it should suggest the presence of a non-functional disease. Symptoms that awaken patients from sleep also are more likely to be due to non-functional than functional diseases.

Most commonly, functional diseases interfere with the patients' comfort and daily activities. For example, patients who suffer from morning diarrhea may not leave their home until the diarrhea stops. If the diarrhea is constant, they may go only to places where they know that a toilet is readily available. Patients who develop pain after eating may skip lunch. Very commonly, patients associate symptoms with specific foods, such as milk, fat, vegetables, etc. Whether or not such associations are real, these patients will restrict their diets accordingly. Milk is the food that is most commonly eliminated, often unnecessarily and to the detriment of adequate calcium intake. The interference with daily activities also can lead to problems with interpersonal relationships, especially with spouses. However, most patients with functional disease tend to just live with their symptoms and only infrequently visit physicians for diagnosis and treatment.

Antidepressants for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Antidepressants are used to treat depression, anxiety, or both by correcting imbalances in brain chemistry. For people who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), doses much lower than those usually used to treat depression can help relieve symptoms of IBS such as pain, bloating, and feeling like you are unable to pass a stool.

They may be used to treat chronic, unremitting abdominal pain that interferes with your daily activities. Here are some examples of antidepressants used to treat IBS. Your doctor may give you one that is not in this list.

Amitriptyline
Bupropion (such as Wellbutrin)
Citalopram (such as Celexa)
Desipramine (Norpramin)
Fluoxetine (such as Prozac)
Imipramine (Tofranil)
Paroxetine (Paxil)
Sertraline (Zoloft)
Trazodone
Venlafaxine (Effexor)

For people who have IBS along with depression and anxiety, these medicines may be used in doses that are usually used to treat depression or anxiety. Some antidepressants may worsen constipation. Others may worsen diarrhea. You may start to feel better within 1 to 3 weeks of taking antidepressant medicine. But it can take as many as 6 to 8 weeks to see more improvement. If you have questions or concerns about your medicines, or if you do not notice any improvement by 3 weeks, talk to your doctor. See the topic Depression for more information.

FDA Advisories. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued:

A warning on the antidepressant Paxil (paroxetine) and birth defects. One new study showed that women who took Paxil during their first 12 weeks of pregnancy had a slightly higher chance of having a baby with birth defects.
An advisory on antidepressant medicines and the risk of suicide. The FDA does not recommend that people stop using these medicines. Instead, a person taking antidepressants should be watched for warning signs of suicide. This is especially important at the beginning of treatment or when the doses are changed.

See Drug Reference for more information about these medicines. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

Psychotherapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Psychotherapy may be effective for people who have severe pain caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Psychotherapy involves talking with a mental health professional about emotional and psychological problems that may trigger symptoms of IBS. Religious or spiritual advisers may offer similar help. Family therapy and support groups also may help in the treatment of IBS.

Psychological treatment methods may be more effective if used along with other treatments, such as diet modification, stress reduction, and sometimes medicine. People with symptoms of IBS who may have success with these treatments include people who have:

Diarrhea and pain as their main symptoms.
IBS symptoms related to psychological triggers, such as depression, anxiety, or a history of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.

People who do not think that psychological factors play a role in triggering their symptoms may not respond to psychotherapy. In addition, people who have constipation and abdominal bloating as their main symptoms may not respond to psychotherapy as well as those who have diarrhea and pain.

Anxiety Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The pressures of contemporary life are detrimental have an effect on our physical, mental stability. The pace of life leaves no time for reflection and meditation during which the mind will still letting us see our lives in perspective. everybody appears therefore busy and betrothed in our material world that are unnecessarily contributing to the degree of hysteria and worry we tend to expertise our call to distortion and affects our overall health.

Anxiety is probably one in every of the foremost common disorders within the world recently, to not mention one in every of the foremost tough. E 'considered traditional and healthy sentiment, till it's too severe and uncontrollable, and this could be taken towards assuaging the symptoms cause distress, in order that an individual will live a traditional life.

For those that suffer from severe anxiety, they have a tendency to back far from everyday issues within the blowing out of proportion, they have a tendency to avoid or perhaps escape their fears rather than attempting to research these minor issues to examine them in their true light-weight .. several are attracted by alcohol and medicines to seek out temporary relief from their fears, it's a state of nerves and infrequently result in relationship breakdowns, deteriorating health and different additional serious issues.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Anxiety

There are variety of health issues that may cause anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome is one in every of the foremost common. Irritable bowel syndrome could be a common criticism of hysteria sufferers of hysteria, and once you have irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, common symptoms typically experienced within the state are if truth be told considerably increased and each SII and anxiety are crippling enough for themselves, a lot of less along.

If you have got anxiety irritable bowel syndrome, you wish to hunt medical facilitate as thereforeon as attainable so you'll be able to get your condition properly diagnosed and assessed, and take the trail of healing. There are many completely different strategies of treatment accessible, you'll work along with your doctor to see what specific form of treatment would be best for you and your health.

When it involves treatment of irritable bowel syndrome anxiety, that is one in every of the primary belongings you ought to attempt is to vary your lifestyle. this suggests eating healthy and balanced diet as attainable and obtain lots of regular exercise. you ought to conjointly attempt some techniques for managing stress, anxiety irritable bowel syndrome, and this includes yoga, meditation and different relaxation techniques.

If the condition is especially severe, you will conjointly need to think about therapy or counseling, as a result of it will facilitate to condition additional anxiety and in flip alleviate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome condition. you'll be able to conjointly participate in self-help teams for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome or different gastrointestinal disorders, that could be a nice plan, as a result of then you'll be able to seek advice from others who are experiencing identical factor to you.

An IBS Trigger Food Allergies

You have a problem with the irritable bowel syndrome? If you do, you're certainly not alone, as most people suffer from these problems at some point in their life or another. The fact is, identify the exact cause of these problems can be a bit difficult. One of the main reasons why it is so, because so many different problems can be grouped under the same disease. For example, a problem of treating diarrhea is considered in the same way that a person suffering from constipation. Understanding what makes it easy to understand why the problem of irritable bowel syndrome is so difficult.

Believe it or not, you may have a problem with irritable bowel syndrome, but the reason you're really suffering from the trigger that causes the symptoms present. If you can keep these symptoms under control, the disease is still going on in the background, but would have to face because there are no trigger events that caused the difficulty. One of the most important things that the causes of these problems have food allergies. Food allergies are a big problem today.

There are a number of food allergies that could lead to problems with irritable bowel syndrome. For example, many people are allergic to nuts and although some may be allergic to where you end up with a situation that caused the death, others may be a little allergic, so it is that IBS symptoms after eating nuts. Milk is also another problem that causes these conditions regularly and many people are lactose intolerant can not digest the proteins in cow's milk.

If you regularly have a problem with the irritable bowel syndrome, one of the best things you can do is keep track of all the foods you eat and any symptoms you may experience. By doing this, you will be able to determine which foods are causing you problems and avoid them so you do not have these problems that arise periodically. This may sound simple, but it is a way for you to be able to overcome a problem with the irritable bowel syndrome symptoms once and for all.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Submitted by juliet

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a problem that affects mainly the bowel. It is a disorder characterized most commonly by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. It can be found in children, often is first identified in adolescence and can resolve unexpectedly for periods of time throughout an individuals lifespan, reoccurring at any age. IBS causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it does not permanently harm the intestines and does not lead to a serious disease, such as cancer. The disorder accounts for more than one out of every 10 doctor visits. For most people, signs and symptoms of irritable bowel disease are mild. It is fairly common and makes up 20–50% of visits to gastroenterologists. Lower abdominal pain, and bloating associated with alteration of bowel habits and abdominal discomfort relieved with defecation are the most frequent symptoms. It is also called the large intestine. Women are affected more often than men. It's not the same as inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis. Colitis, for instance, means inflammation of the large intestine (colon). IBS, however, does not cause inflammation and should not be confused with ulcerative colitis, which is a more serious disorder.

Some people with IBS find that increasing the amount of dietary fibre and reducing caffeine helps. The word syndrome means a group of symptoms. IBS is a syndrome because it can cause several symptoms. For example, IBS causes cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Most people can control their symptoms with diet, stress management, and prescribed medications. For some people, however, IBS can be disabling. They may be unable to work, attend social events, or even travel short distances. In many cases, you can control irritable bowel syndrome by managing your diet, lifestyle and stress. Colon motility (contraction of intestinal muscles and movement of its contents) is controlled by nerves and hormones and by electrical activity in the colon muscle. IBS should not be confused with colitis or other inflammatory diseases of the intestinal tract and IBS is not limited to the colon. In some individuals, IBS may have an acute onset and develop after an infectious illness characterised by two or more of the following: fever , vomiting , acute diarrhea , positive stool culture. This post-infective syndrome has consequently been termed "post-infectious IBS" and is acute onset Rome II criteria positive. This condition is more homogenous, being mostly IBS-D and is drawing much clinical investigation.

Causes of Irritable bowel syndrome

The common causes and risk factor's of Irritable bowel syndrome include the following:

No one knows exactly what causes irritable bowel syndrome.

Factor's that seem to produce sympatoms of IBS include diet, emotional stress and hormones.

Ordinary events such as eating and distention from gas or other material in the colon can cause an overreaction in the person with IBS.

Sometimes another illness, such as an acute episode of infectious diarrhea (gastroenteritis) can trigger IBS.

People with IBS often report that family members also have the disorder, suggesting a possible genetic cause.

Symptoms of Irritable bowel syndrome

Some sign and symptoms related to Irritable bowel syndrome are as follows:

Gas.

Bloating.

Mucus in the stool.

Feeling sick with it.

Swollen or bloated abdomen.

Bloating and fullness of wind.

Alternating between one and the other.

A sensation of having to rush to the toilet.

Crampy pain in the stomach area ( abdomen ).

Diarrhea or constipation- people with IBS may also experience alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea.

Treatment of Irritable bowel syndrome

Here is list of the methods for treating Irritable bowel syndrome:

Fiber supplements or laxatives for constipation or medicines to decrease diarrhea, such as Lomotil or loperamide (Imodium).

An antispasmodic is commonly prescribed, which helps to control colon muscle spasms and reduce abdominal pain. Antidepressants may relieve some symptoms.

Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture and homeopathy, are often used.

Some people find complementary treatments such as acupuncture help, although there is little scientific proof of their effectiveness.

Anti-diarrheal medications: Over-the-counter medications such as loperamide (Imodium) can help control diarrhea.

Drugs which are used for diarrhoea, such as codeine, can be helpful, but are used less because they can be addictive.

When all else fails, a small dose of a medication usually used to treat depression can be effective. This seems to work in a much smaller dose than is used for depression, and may, in part, work by mimicking the nervous system to the bowel.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for diseases cure and health care information.

Source: ArticleTrader.com

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in a Nutshell

According to statistics, from 15 to 50 % of adult population suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. Women of childbearing age are subjected to this disease most of all.

Sometimes the initial course of IBS begins after 40 years. In this case a careful medical inspection is especially necessary (probably, at this age the disease has developed as the consequence an organic pathology).
Far from all people with irritable bowel syndrome address to the doctor, hence, not everyone knows about the diagnosis. Statistics say, not more than 10 % of the total amount of IBS patients call the doctor and get diagnosed.

Irritable bowel syndrome is the irritation of intestinal receptors that results in the functional disorder of the colon. Usually it occurs because of lactose and other sugars, fatty acid, alimentary agents, purgatives, infections caused by dysbacteriosis, etc.

Quite often irritable bowel syndrome develops after acute intestinal infections accompanied with dysbacteriosis. People with unstable mentality and also those who has gone through nervous breakdowns caused by a serious physical or psychological load are most subjected to it.

Most often abnormal intestinal motility and various hormonal disorders lead to pathology of the intestines in case of irritable bowel syndrome. Also IBS can become an instinctive protection against stress (there is such psychological phenomenon). A high level of anxiety, hyperexcitability, sleeping disorders, and depressions are characteristic of IBS patients.

However many of these signs do not precede irritable bowel syndrome and, on the contrary, accompany it during its development. In that case they practically disappear in course of treatment.

Dietary habits play an essential role in occurrence of some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The normal motility of an intestine assumes presence of such volume of intestinal contents which is necessary to excite receptors of intestinal walls. The volume of intestinal contents is determined first of all by the amount of ballast substances that hold water, absorb toxicants, stimulate motility, etc.

Besides, motor disorders characteristic of IBS can be connected with other collateral factors. The peak of motor activity of the left departments of the colon and the rectum is marked in the morning after breakfast.

That's why in most cases defecation happens in the morning after meal. Refusal from full breakfast and haste during food consumption in the morning suppress normal functioning of gastrointestinal reflex and result in constipation. Therefore, constipation is a usual symptom of irritable bowel syndrome.

Gynecologic disorders also can be the causes of IBS. The intensity and periodicity of IBS symptoms among many women is directly proportional to the clinical course of gynecologic disorders.

According to medical statistics, the majority of patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome has a superfluous bacterial growth in the small intestine in 68,8 % of cases and 98,4 % of IBS patients have dysbacteriosis of the colon.

Among the consequence of irritable bowel syndrome there are disorders of motor, secretory, digestive and other functions of the small intestine. Thus, contents with aggressive properties get to the colon. Because of the changes of microflora caused by dysbacteriosis processes of digestion and adsorption are also upset in the colon. Motor and secretory functions of the colorectum can be consequently disturbed as well.

Devin Greenfield writes for About Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Visit this website to learn more about the subject.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Devin_Greenfield

Irritable Bowel Syndrome and its Effects on Cats

By: Low Jeremy

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not only common among humans but also among animals particularly cats. Basically, the IBS that is experienced by people is the same type that cats also feel.

The Irritable Bowel Syndrome among cats is the same gastrointestinal disorder that is also felt by human. The large and/or small intestines are also affected. IBS in cats usually affects the contractions of the digestive tract resulting to irregular bowel movement. Aside from that, IBS also interferes with the normal distribution of food and waste material inside the cat's body resulting to the accumulation of toxins and mucus in the cat's intestines.

These accumulated toxins often obstruct the normal function of the digestive tract. In the process gas and stool are trapped causing bloating, constipation and distention. It is also surprising to note that the same IBS factors in human have been identified to cause the same effects among cats. Factors causing IBS such as stress, overuse of antibiotics, poor eating habits, bacterial, and viral infection, parasites and food allergies were found to affect cats as well.

Likewise, a blockage is also very common among cats since they love to chew as well as swallow objects. This too can trigger IBS symptoms.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Cats

It would be surprising to note that cats and humans exhibit the same Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. And here are some of them:

- Constipation among cats is just like in humans. It is also exhibited by hard, small, pebble-like stools, which make bowel movement very difficult.
- Diarrhea is a more frequent bowel movement wherein the stool is often soft and watery. Cats with IBS usually experience successive loose bowel movement alternating with constipation.
- Abdominal pain is also common among cats with IBS. The pain can range from mild to severe.
- The presence of mucus in the stool is also a common sign of IBS.
- Another symptom of IBS that may be observed in cats is vomiting and nausea.
- Gas pain or flatulence is also an indication of IBS in cats
- Bloating
- Intolerance to certain types of foods
- Anorexia which most of you may think is only common to us human but surprisingly is also exhibited by our feline friends.

Treating Your Cat's Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Since Irritable Bowel Syndrome involves many factors, it is very important that you have your cats examined by a veterinarian. This way you will know what's triggering IBS symptoms in your pet cats. In case you prefer to apply natural methods in controlling your pet's IBS symptoms still it is better to consult first a veterinarian before applying any type of IBS treatment to your cat to avoid further complications.

A change in your cat's diet is also a good way to control Irritable Bowel syndrome. However make sure that you consult a veterinarian or a nutritionist to provide your cat with a personalized diet and program.

Feeding your cat with the right type of food is still the best way to control your cat's Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Cats like humans prefer different types of foods. There are some cats that like eating raw food while there are some that prefers home cooking or canned food.

It is very important that you try to experiment with foods that work for your cat. If you can keep a food journal in which you can jot down foods that your cat needs to avoid then so much the better. This will guide you on the proper food to give your cat and in turn keeps IBS symptoms in control.

Common Diets for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

By: Low Jeremy

Most patients of Irritable Bowel Syndrome find it important to keep track of all the foods that they have eaten. This does not only concern what foods but also the fashion by which it was prepared.

Say for chicken, you do not only indicate "chicken" in your food journal, you must be very specific with the terms. It is also important to integrate the time and your mood during eating a specific stuff. All these will play vital roles in distinguishing what triggers your symptom and what foods don't have effects at all.

Your food journal must be filled regularly so proper tracking is made. The best time to gather details is during the night so that nothing would be missed out. Remember that each detail is very important and should be given due attention. A candy bar or any relatively insignificant food will make the difference in determining what is the best diet plan for your Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Common diets for irritable bowel syndrome eliminate the trigger foods. Your dietician or physician should be able to build possible diet plan for based on the data written in your food journal.

Among the components of common diets for irritable bowel syndrome is the integration of larger amounts of dietary fiber to help eliminate one symptom, that is constipation.

With higher fiber content in your regular diet, your stools are likely to become bulky. So if you are seriously affected with constipation, the best way to combat compacted stool its to induce some volume. That exactly is how fiber works.

Problematic foods, on the other hand, are those known to trigger the symptoms. These are basically those with high fat content since this aids in slower digestion of foods. Fat itself takes much longer time before it is completely dissolved and stored.

One important thing to remember when following a diet for irritable bowel syndrome is the observance of regular meals. Irritable Bowel Syndrome lies in the abnormal function of the intestinal tract, or specifically the colon. If you would practice eating at the same time everyday, your intestine will get used to the habit, which would regularize the bowel movement and the movement of the intestinal muscles more.

If you have diarrhea-dominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome, the best diet for you to follow is one that will allow the intake of meals in smaller pieces. And since diarrhea deals more on the presence of water in the stool, it is vital that you follow your dietician's advice when it comes to the amount of water that must be taken.

In general, it is advisable to take as much fluid as you can. Alcohol works best. Be careful though that you avoid caffeinated drinks, carbonated sodas, and alcohol-based beverages. Caffeine will stimulate the intestines and can result to making diarrhea worse while carbonated drinks produce more gas, which further aggravates the condition.

Dairy foods are also a must-avoid food in nearly all common diets for irregular bowel syndrome. Lactose intolerance is normally associated with IBS. If you are lactose-intolerant it is best that you supplement milk proteins with yogurt. Or better yet, use an enzyme product to facilitate the breaking down of lactose.

You may still continue consuming milk products. However, in some common diet for irritable bowel syndrome, it is suggested that lactose is totally removed. Be sure though that this is properly substituted with products that contain high content of vitamin B, calcium and protein.

Diet for Irritable Bowel: What-To-Eat and What-Not-to-Eat

By: Low Jeremy

It is not surprising that food has got something to do with the causes of irritable bowel syndrome. After all, it is in the intestinal tract that we process foods. Thus, what we eat normally affects the way our intestines function.

Changes in our diet would certainly create effects on the fashion by which we digest foods. This then will change the chemical interaction involved in the processing of these crucial substances.

However, Irritable Bowel Syndrome does not deal with chemical interactions alone. It is basically a functional disorder that borders more on the abnormalities of functions that don't often project actual or physical complications. In fact, this is the exact reason why the nature of the disease is not yet fully known. Add to it the fact that most factors involved are under subjective details, which also require subjective treatments. This alone is enough to conclude why there is lack of concrete knowledge on the true characteristics of the syndrome.

Though we know for a fact that all these contribute to the development of the syndrome and the consequential attacks of symptoms, the medical community cannot still provide a comprehensive treatment plan for all patients to eliminate IBS.

Thus, any activities that would result to the removal of these factors will create lesser chances of triggering the attacks.

One best way of doing this is through following of a diet plan that would remove problematic foods while supplementing them with foods helpful in improving the symptoms.

While foods may not actually act as root causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, their effects are still substantial enough. It is good to note however that there is no fixed formula for creating the diet for Irritable Bowel syndrome. The results will always lie on the strategic combination of foods to promote lesser symptoms and healthier intestinal tract.

Trigger foods are obviously those who create tension in the stomach which then causes it to function in an abnormal manner. Some of the trigger foods are those which have high fat content while very low in fiber content. Oils, cream, poultry skin, fried foods, and coconut milk are among the most common foods that cause problems.

Fats are known to create a slower digestion in the stomach. The more time it takes the intestinal bacteria to digest foods, the higher the risk of creating gas thus, most patients of Irritable Bowel syndrome suffer from intestinal gas which in itself is also associated with diarrhea, bloating, constipation and other major symptoms.

Foods with high caffeine content like coffee, chocolate, and carbonate rinks are also known to trigger Irritable Bowel syndrome. Therefore, these must be eliminated from your list of foods so that you can get around from the likelihood of stimulating the rise of abdominal complications.

Meanwhile, to facilitate better movements of the stool in the colon, it is best that you take extra amounts of dietary fiber. This is especially true for those who suffer from constipation-dominant irritable bowel.

Constipation is marked by compacted stool or too loose stool. Fiber acts as the neutralizer since it adds bulk to the stool to administer easier expulsion from the system.

Fiber can be acquired from natural resources such as vegetables and fruits, nuts, brown rice, figs, peas, French bread, raisings, soybeans, and a number of others.

How Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Diagnosed?

By: Alexander West

The diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome [IBS] is made by your medical doctor mainly on the basis of what symptoms you are experiencing. Typical symptoms are bloating, abdominal pain/cramps, constipation and diarrhoea. Typical causes are a bad diet, food poisoning, a prolonged course of antibiotics or an operation around the pelvic area.

Following on from your story of your symptoms, the doctor may physically examine you. This may be an examination of the stomach area where the doctor will push along the large intestinal wall, to understand how tender the region is. Your doctor may also take your blood pressure or measure your heart rate.

Your doctor may refer you to a Gastroenterologist for a rectal examination. This is where the Gastroenterologist inserts a flexible tube with a light inside it into your rectum. The allows the Gastroenterologist to see the lining of the bowel. The Gastroenterologist may examine part of the colon or the entire length [about 4 feet]. In addition the Gastroenterologist may take a sample of the bowel wall called a biopsy to make sure that the bowel is truly normal. This is one way for example to test for gluten intolerance.

Your doctor may request that you take a Barium Meal which is swallowed or a Barium Enema which is taken via the rectum. Barium is a radioactive substance that shows up under X-rays.

The doctor may also ask for blood tests to be taken. This could be to check for parasites, for example, Giardia.

The purpose of these tests is reassurance and confirmation that nothing is wrong with the structure of the bowel. You are unlikely to get a tumour or cancer from IBS. IBS is an indication that the bowel is going into spasm. These days your medical doctor should be understanding and compassionate of your symptoms. I would hope that now the medical profession has moved on and agrees that IBS is a bona fide illness and is not just in our heads. I was lucky in that my medical doctor used to be a sufferer of IBS. I would research information and then go to him with what I'd found and we would both agree on the next course of action. I hope that you are fortunate enough to also have such an understanding medical doctor.

All in all it can take a while [months] to run through all the medical tests to confirm that there is nothing wrong with your bowel. Whatever you can do speed up this process should be suggested to the medical profession, for example if you can go private.

The following is a list of symptoms that do not indicate IBS:

1). blood on the stool,
2). jet black stool that looks like tar,
3). vomiting or vomiting blood,
4). loss of weight when you are not trying to lose weight.

If you have any of these symptoms then you need to see your medical doctor even if you have IBS.

If you can, before you go to see your medical doctor, write out your questions beforehand, so that you have a better chance of leaving the doctor with your questions and concerns answered.

Cures for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

By Alan Jensen

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a disorder that occurs when muscles in the intestines contract faster or slower than normal and create pain, cramping, excessive gas, sudden bouts of diarrhea, or prolonged periods of constipation.

While there currently is no cure for IBS, there are many strategies you can use to better manage your symptoms. Experts claim the most important thing you can do to cure IBS is to avoid all products containing wheat, dairy and sugar.

Studies show that most people with IBS also have a wheat allergy. This intolerance to gluten severely impairs digestion and makes your IBS symptoms worse. Dairy is known to form mucus in your bowels and frequently leads to gastrointestinal distress. Many individuals with IBS are lactose intolerant and unable to digest the protein molecules present in dairy products.

Sugars are normally broken down by specific enzymes in the intestines and then absorbed. Many people with IBS do not produce some of these enzymes, so the sugars don't get broken down properly. If these sugars wind up in the large intestine; intestinal bacteria will absorb them, which results in large amounts of gas being produced.

L-glutamine is a natural amino that can help to reduce sugar cravings. Whenever you have a sugar craving; place a capsule of L-glutamate under your tongue for five minutes, than swallow it. L-glutamine feeds your brain and overrides the sugar craving.

Most people have heard of Aloe Vera and associate it with skin care and beauty products. However, aloe vera juice is becoming an increasingly popular treatment of IBS and other associated digestive problems. Aloe vera juice helps to break down impacted stools and eliminate toxins from the digestive system. While it's not a cure for IBS, many sufferers claim aloe vera juice is a life-saver.

Apple cider vinegar has long been touted as a cure-all for many ailments. Apple cider vinegar aids in digestion because it helps the body to assimilate and eliminate food. Apple cider vinegar is an antiseptic to the intestines and entire digestive tract. Due to its healing properties, apple cider vinegar can help to control diarrhea in a very short time. The apple cider vinegar cure for IBS involves consuming one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water before and between each meal.

Acidophilus is the "friendly bacteria" that resides in your colon. There are over 400 different types of bacteria residing in your digestive tract. Some are beneficial, while others are responsible for producing gas, bloating, constipation and even diarrhea. Acidophilus is thought to help control and correct bacterial imbalances in the digestive tract and colon. Acidophilus is available in capsules, packets and even straws, which are perfect for children or individuals who have difficulty swallowing capsules.

Coconut oil shows promise as a cure for IBS [http://www.my-irritable-bowel-syndrome.com]. Coconut oil is edible oil that has been consumed in the tropics for thousands of years. Coconut oil is considered a miracle drug by many; as it has shown effective in reducing cholesterol, supporting thyroid function, assisting in the stabilization diabetes, rejuvenating skin, and boosting energy. Coconut oil is available in solid form for cooking and in capsule form. Coconut oil should be stored at room temperature.

Magnesium is a mineral needed by every cell of the body. Experts suggest that nearly 40 percent of Americans are deficient in this crucial mineral. IBS patients who suffer with constipation find that adding magnesium to their diet helps with the elimination process. Dietary sources of magnesium include green vegetables such as spinach, as well as nuts, seeds, and some whole grains. Magnesium supplements can be taken as oral tablets, liquid, or intramuscular injections. IBS patients should avoid taking Magnesium oxide supplements, as they are the most poorly absorbed. Look for Magnesium chloride, citrate, gluconate or sulfate forms.

Many people with IBS find their symptoms improve when they add fiber to their diet. Fiber tends to be most effective with people who suffer from constipation; however, it may also help those who suffer from diarrhea. The best fiber to add to your diet is the insoluble type found in bran, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. An easy way to increase your fiber intake is with crushed psyllium seed. This natural laxative can be found in most pharmacies, supermarkets, and health food stores.

Alan Jensen is recognized as a leading expert on herbal irritable bowel treatment products for fast and safe irritable bowel syndrome treatment. He is a frequent contributor to irritable bowel treatment [http://www.my-irritable-bowel-syndrome.com]. He enjoys spending free time with his family and 3 year old German Shepherd.

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Natural Remedies For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

By Jimmy Jenkins Ray

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a comprehensive term for a conglomeration of ailments that affects the gastro-intestinal tract creating a lot of uneasiness for the sufferer. The main symptoms of this disease are intense pain in the abdomen, uneasiness, cramping, heartburns, alternating loose motions and constipation, flatulence and changes in one's bowel movements. This can lead to hemorrhoids, and at times you experience nausea, headaches and tiredness.

Many fields of sciences that deal in nature cures believe that the major causes of this ailment is that the food consumed is not properly digested and the stress that a person's experiences in life. It is one of the most commonly found diseases amongst people, but the fact remains that this is one ailment that receives very little attention.

There are many natural remedies that can help you find relief from the symptoms of IBS. If you are a person who has diarrhea, due to this illness you will find that consuming amino acid L-Glutamine in water on an empty stomach three to four times daily for a few days can help you considerably. This is said to foster and cure the mucosal lining of the intestines, making the bowels absorb the water in the stools so that the frequency of bowel movements are reduced. While for constipation just eating food rich in fiber like carrots, cauliflower, zucchini, spinach, broccoli and also taking vitamin C and magnesium can relieve your symptoms.

Aloe Vera is said to be an excellent remedy for heartburns. Drink a cup of its juice before going to bed and also avoid acidic foods like tomatoes, oranges, lemons, grapefruit and caffeinated drinks. Herbalists suggest that you take a few drops of peppermint oil diluted in a cup of warm water to reduce spasms in the bowel. Peppermint can be used in the form of tea or you can even avail of peppermint oil capsules form stores. Remember that drinking plenty of water is also very helpful. Ginger is another root that helps relieve many gastrointestinal symptoms like cramps and nausea and assists in the proper digestion of food.

Another extremely good natural therapy for IBS is Yoga. As mentioned earlier the stress and strain in your life could be the cause of irritation in your bowels and a couple of routine breathing exercises, a few yoga poses and meditation could help to relieve the stress. Some of the yoga poses that you should practice are the bow pose, fish pose, locust pose and the corpse pose. Keeping the body active is very important and exercises help to regularize bowel movements.

Digestive advantage irritable bowel syndrome

Digestive advantage irritable bowel syndrome is available without a prescription. It is a full line of products that can help promote a healthy digestive system and are particularly beneficial for those people who suffer from IBS and other digestive tract disorders such as bloating, gas, constipation and diarrhea.

There are many reasons for using Digestive Advantage to help alleviate some of your symptoms,here are just a few of them:

1.Unlike products that contain man made substances, which create havoc with your digestive tract, Digestive Advantage is all natural and contains probiotics which work with your body, not against it. This means that you'll have far fewer symptoms and discomfort than you would if you ate other products that weren't all natural. This means you'll have less bloating, cramping and diarrhea.

2. Many of the products currently on the market to promote good digestive health, are cost prohibitive, they are simply too expensive for many people to purchase. If you can't afford to buy them, they won't do you any good. Not so with Digestive Advantage, these products are as easy on the wallet as they are on your stomach.

3. Another good thing about using Digestive Advantage irritable bowel syndrome is that they're easy to find. You can get the products at most pharmacies and grocery stores. That means that you don't have to hunt all over for them, which saves a lot of time and added expense.

Though rare, and not usually serious, there are some side effects that can occur when using this product. Some of the most common are:

1. Sometimes you can get the same issues with the product that you are using the product to get rid of. Some people experience bloating, gas and diarrhea from taking Digestive Advantage.

2. Occasionally people can get an infection from the probiotics in D.A. This is rare and is usually caused by some underlying health issue generally associated with the immune system. If you have immune system problems, make sure to talk to your doctor before you use D.A.

3. Allergy symptoms and swollen glands can sometimes occur when taking products with probiotics. It's rare, and doesn't usually happen but it is something to be aware of.

Of course there are always lifestyle changes that you can make that can also help you alleviate your symptoms. Watching what you eat, learning to relax, and slowing your pace are some things that you can do that will help you relieve your symptoms.