Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a painful and often embarrassing condition that causes diarrhea, constipation, cramping and gas. Approximately 20 percent of Americans have the condition, which affects women more often than men, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Treatment reduces symptoms through dietary changes, medication and stress management.
Diet
Avoid foods that produce gas--such as fatty foods, raw fruits and vegetables, carbonated drinks, coffee, raw salads, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. Because foods don't affect everyone the same way, keep a log in order to determine which foods worsen your symptoms. Eating foods high in fiber and taking fiber supplements may reduce constipation. It is best to introduce grains, beans and other foods gradually, as too much fiber can worsen cramping and gas. You may find that you feel better limiting high fiber foods and relying on a supplement for fiber.
Preventing Gas
In addition to avoiding food and beverages that may cause gas, avoid swallowing excess air. You swallow air naturally when you eat or drink; but eating or drinking rapidly, smoking, gum chewing, wearing loose dentures and talking while you eat can cause you to swallow too much air. Eat at a more leisurely pace, stop smoking or try an over-the-counter medication that reduces gas.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Medications containing simethicone, such as Mylanta Gas and Gas-X, combine gas bubbles with a foaming agent in the stomach that permits gas to be relieved by belching. Drugs that contain chlorophyllin copper, such as Derifil and Nullo, can help reduce the odor of intestinal gas. If you notice that you have gas when you drink milk or use milk products, use lactase pills or liquid just before you eat. You can reduce gas in the colon by taking activated charcoal tablets before and after eating. If you don't want to give up raw vegetables and other foods that cause gas, a digestive aid, such as Beano, may help. Beano contains an enzyme that helps your stomach digest the sugar in problem foods.
Prescription Medications
Antidepressants not only relieve depression, but can also treat pain and alter the speed in which waste travels through your intestines. If you have abdominal cramping and pain, your doctor may recommend a drug that relieves spasms or cramps. Lotronex may be prescribed if you have severe diarrhea that hasn't responded to any other treatment. The drug works by slowing waste as it travels through the intestines and by relaxing the colon. The drug is highly controlled and can only be prescribed by doctors enrolled in a special program. If you are a woman and have constipation, you may be eligible to take Amitiza, a helps stool pass through the intestines by increasing the secretions of fluids.
Stress Management
Stress management, along with and medication when necessary, can help reduce IBS flare-ups. Treatment can range from relaxation techniques to biofeedback to psychotherapy. A regular exercise program can also help manage stress.
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