Health Center - Digestive Disorders
Digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux and constipation can have devastating effects on your life. Don’t let your symptoms cramp your style. Find tips and ideas below for taking control of your condition, and start feeling better soon.
10 Tips for Coping With IBS Symptoms
If you've recently been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), then you're likely coping with chronic abdominal discomfort or pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits. These symptoms can cause physical and psychological discomfort. Discovering an IBS management plan that works for you likely will involve trial and error at first and changes along the way.
With IBS, your bowel is sensitive to stimuli. Identifying what triggers your abnormal bowel function can help prevent or minimize your symptoms. Here are some tips that might help:
- Eat at regular hours.
- Chew food slowly and thoroughly.
- Avoid large or high-fat meals or excess caffeine.
- Get regular physical activity. It can help relieve the symptoms of anxiety and promote good bowel function.
- Avoid delaying the urge to have a bowel movement.
- Avoid straining during a bowel movement; try to relax and take your time.
Because your colon is more sensitive and reactive if you have IBS, ordinary events such as eating and distention from gas or having other material in the colon can trigger symptoms. The following strategies may help prevent attacks:
