Irritable Bowel Syndrome & Stress

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common disorder of the large intestine. IBS can be controlled through proper diet, lifestyle and management of stress. Knowing what triggers your symptoms--and making corresponding adjustments--can help you live with the disorder without it disrupting your life.

Symptoms of IBS

• Irritable bowel syndrome causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation. Often the symptoms get severe and interfere with the patient's work or social life.

IBS Triggers

• Symptoms of IBS are triggered by gas from certain foods, medications and emotions. Symptoms can worsen during stressful events.

Prevention/Solution

• IBS sufferers who recognize and avoid the foods that trigger symptoms can help to avoid uncomfortable symptoms. Learning how to manage stress can also reduce the symptoms of the disorder.

Techniques

• Practicing yoga or meditation, engaging in regular exercise, getting a massage or doing things that help relax you can aid in both reducing your stress and reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Uncontrollable IBS

• IBS that is not controlled can cause the sufferer to avoid situations because of the embarrassing symptoms of the disorder. Often severe IBS symptoms can trigger depression.