How to Cope With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) doesn't usually lead to serious disease. Still, it's a chronic set of symptoms that require lifestyle modifications. Learning how to cope with IBS is just one of the many necessary changes you must learn to make.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Support Groups

1. Understand that IBS has no known cause or cure.

2. Choose a job with a flexible schedule or consider working out of your home, starting your own business or temping. It's difficult to hold down a 9 to 5 job with chronic diarrhea or abdominal pain from colonic spasms.

3. Ask your doctor if he or she thinks prescribing an antidepressant or tranquilizer might be right for you.

4. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the bathroom.

5. Join an IBS support group. Call your local health department or hospital.

6. Find an Internet support group. Chat with fellow IBS sufferers and post your IBS questions.

7. Maintain a sunny disposition. If you brood and fret about your IBS, your symptoms won't improve. A good attitude is important when coping with IBS.

Tips & Warnings

• For more information on IBS, call the International Foundation for Fundamental Gastrointestinal Disorders at [phone].
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other healthcare professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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[karina23]

on 9/19/2009 hi there i have just found out that i have ibs, i dont no what foods cause it and i keep gettin really hot wit it it has also beeen making me feel sickly and is really been gettin me dwn to the point where i cant stop crying, i would really appericate it if some1 could talk 2 me about it fanx.x

[mejkwilliams]

on 5/2/2007 I am still trying to figure mine out. I have had it for quite sometime. I have tried avoiding dairy (yesterday I had 1 slice of cheese and that was my only dairy) and I had a horrible attack last night. I wish I knew exactly what I could do! It seems like I am never pain free =(. I have tried the oatmeal "diet"- I was told by a friend that her mother eats yogurt for like 3 days and water only and that helps her- does not seem to help me. I look forward to seeing further suggestions...thanks all!

[austinmaxi]

on 12/10/2006 My IBS has beem geting steadily worse. I have cut out bananas from my diet and for the first time in five years it has cleared up completely. I am pretty sure that in my case bananas are bad not good!

on 8/8/2006 I spoke to a work colleague yesterday who has IBS and has recently started wearing a copper bangle on her wrist. She says that her IBS has not been nearly as bad since she has worn it.

on 6/30/2006 A sure fire remedy, no cure, is an Italian Liqueur called Frenet Branca. Recommended by an Italian bartender. You have to find it by calling some large liquor store. It really stops the discomfort.