Many
people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) have not been given any
dietary recommendations by their physicians. It appears that little is
known about this syndrome as far as what treatments may help.
Physicians have a few medications they can prescribe. If these don't
help, they generally do not have any other recommendations. I have had
personal experience with this and have heard from others who also have
not been given any dietary recommendations.
IBS has no
recognizable physical findings that lead to this diagnosis. Even
colonoscopies may be normal. IBS is a chronic functional disorder of
the GI tract which has symptoms of recurrent pain and discomfort,
bloating, gas, mucus in the stool, alternating constipation and
diarrhea or a predominance for either constipation or diarrhea as the
main symptom.
It has been suggested that people with IBS have
abnormal muscle contraction and are overly sensitive to pain. A sudden
attack of symptoms can occur without warning. If the person has
predominantly diarrhea as a symptom it can affect their lives
adversely. They are afraid they could have an attack at any time, any
place. This makes life very difficult and nerve-wracking. Some wear
adult diapers in case they have a problem. Some stay at home because
they are afraid to go anywhere in public.
In this series of articles I will provide some information on dietary changes that may ease symptoms.
If you have any personal experience with foods or beverages that affect IBS either positively or negatively please share your information as it may help others who have this syndrome. DonnaZ
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