Health disorders that trigger a change in one’s bowel movements and habits are annoying. Frequent visits to the loo are no fun at all. People who work in an office or attend classes at school or college experience greater discomfort as these bowel problems are quite embarrassing. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that impacts and restricts one’s diet. This gastrointestinal disorder presents itself as a group of symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, etc. There are several types of this disease, and the condition varies from person to person. One needs to maintain a list of food items that trigger the syndrome so that they can avoid its consumption. In this way, one can lead a better and healthier life in the long run, devoid of the symptoms that encompass the scope of the disease. Triggers are those food items that cause a flare-up of symptoms and lead to the onset of the disease or its aggravation. Seeking treatment for irritable bowel syndrome is the best course of action. When it comes to choosing a treatment option for irritable bowel syndrome, here are some of the best options available.
Treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome
Here are some of the best ways to maintain and treat irritable bowel syndrome:
Avoiding certain foods
If one is suffering from IBS diarrhea, they should avoid the consumption of large amounts of insoluble fiber in their daily diet. Fiber found in the skin of vegetables and fruits are insoluble. One should also avoid taking sorbitol, fructose, caffeine and chocolate drinks. If one is suffering from IBS constipation, they should not eat food items that further trigger the condition. One should avoid processed food items, especially cheese, high-protein diets, bread and cereals, dairy products, coffee, and carbonated drinks at all costs. The foods that one should avoid and eat differ depending on the type of IBS they have.
Maintaining a healthy diet
One should follow a diet that pacifies and aids in treating irritable bowel syndrome. If one is suffering from IBS diarrhea, the first step should be taking smaller portions of meals. One must also increase the amount of soluble fiber in their diet. Oats, barley, whole grain pasta and cereals, brown rice, dried fruits, and so on are all rich sources of soluble fiber. If one is suffering from IBS constipation, they can boost up their fiber intake by eating dried plums and drinking prune juice. One should try to reach the daily fiber intake of 25-38 grams. Individuals must also pay attention to their water consumption. Drinking plenty of water is essential to compensate for the water loss due to IBS.
Medicines
If dietary changes are not helping, a doctor may prescribe medications as a part of the treatment plan for managing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. These include the following:
- Fiber supplements: Fiber supplements may help control the symptoms of constipation if one is unable to eat enough fiber-based food items.
- Laxatives: The doctor may prescribe laxatives if fiber does not help one with the symptoms of IBS.
- Anti-diarrheal medications: The doctor can prescribe over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications to help control IBS diarrhea. They may prescribe bile acid binders as well.
- Painkillers: A doctor may recommend painkillers depending on the amount of pain associated with IBS. However, regardless of the amount of pain, one should avoid opioids as they are highly addictive. Over 100 people in the country die due to opioid addiction each year.
Depending on the condition, a doctor may prescribe several other types of medications for treating irritable bowel syndrome. It is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any medicines as the treatment varies for different conditions of irritable bowel syndrome.
Quick tips
Incorporating as much fiber as one can in the diet is always suggested as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. Depending on the condition, it is vital for patients to get enough insoluble and soluble fiber. They should also avoid certain food items that further trigger the symptoms of IBS. One should drink enough water to compensate for the loss of water in the body through IBS. Drinking water also helps with treating the condition. Try to get ample sleep and exercise on a regular basis as it helps with the treatment process. Following the treatment methods for irritable bowel syndrome mentioned above will help one to a great extent.
Picking a suitable course of action will prevent any complications associated with the disease and help treat it too. One can also practice an IBS diet plan to avoid the problems associated with diarrhea. While this condition is not life-threatening, it does worsen if not managed well. It can make the patient’s life uneasy and uncomfortable. It is all about choosing a treatment plan that suits one’s needs and helps maintain their health as well.
