by Lauren Beyenhof

Created on: June 03, 2009   Last Updated: June 04, 2009

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is the term given to a condition in which the digestive system is prone to abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, or any combination of the three. IBS is a motility disorder which means certain foods cannot be easily moved through the digestive tract, causing the major symptoms of IBS. In addition to being aggravated by certain foods, IBS symptoms can be triggered by stress, anxiety, depression, hormones, or medications. A flare-up of the condition occurs when the contractions of the digestive tract become extremely forceful and rapid, causing cramping and often, diarrhea. During this time the large intestine senses the stretching and responds by moving foods through the body very quickly and often painfully.

Treatment for IBS varies from person to person and doctor to doctor. Finding the right solution for taming or avoiding the flare-ups is not an exact science. There are few medications that have been used in treating IBS and those that are in use have not been proven effective. These medications include antispasmotic drugs which slow down the function of the digestive system can help prevent cramping. Additionally, anti-diarrheal medications can be used.

Non-medicinal treatment of IBS is the preferred method. People with IBS who have identified their triggers can learn to control their IBS by avoiding certain foods. Doctors also advise taking in smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals per day. Eating more slowly is often helpful for avoiding the urgency of diarrhea that comes shortly after eating.

A modified diet for the treatment of IBS is one that avoids gas-producing foods such as beans or anything in the cabbage family. A diet that is high in fiber and low in fat is ideal. Fructose, which is a major component of berries and some plants should be eaten in moderation or avoided altogether. Raw fiber or bran with plenty of water may help with irregularity. Too much fiber, however, can cause an increase in uncomfortable bloating and gas. This can be treated with oil of peppermint, which is an aromatic oil.

Some patients with IBS come to rely on laxatives and enemas for diarrhea and constipation. Lomotil (diphenoxylate with atropine) or immodium (loperamide) are the most commonly used medications for the treatment of the symptoms of IBS. Bentyl (dicylomine hydrochloride) is prescribed to treat IBS that is set off by stress.

When stress, anxiety or depression is the root cause behind IBS, a doctor may recommend talk therapy or a visit to a psychoanalyst. A doctor can prescribe anti-anxiety medications or anti-depressants to help the patient's mental state. This allows the brain to function more normally as the emotional trigger is calmed. Other treatment options may include prescribed mild tranquilizers, hypnosis or even behavior modification.

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