Do you suffer silently from IBS? Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is one of the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal disorders, affecting anywhere from 9% to 23% of the world’s population. Yet, because of the social stigma associated with its symptoms, many are reluctant to discuss their condition with their healthcare providers and thus may be suffering needlessly.

Known also as spastic colon, mucous colitis, or nervous stomach, IBS is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and gas. It may also be accompanied by constipation, diarrhea, or both. No one knows the exact causes of IBS, but research suggests it may be caused by a disturbance in communication between the brain, intestines, and the autonomic nervous system (the part of your nervous system that regulates your digestive system). Certain foods, stress, infections, or a woman’s menstrual cycle can make the symptoms worse. In addition, some researchers believe that the neurotransmitter serotonin (95% of which is located in the gastrointestinal tract) may play a role.

About 60% of IBS sufferers are women, although people of all ages can be affected. Most people report mild to moderate symptoms; however, about 5% of people have severe symptoms that can interfere with their daily functioning.

How Do I Know If I Have IBS?

Because there is no medical test to identify IBS, diagnosing it involves obtaining a detailed health history, identifying symptoms, and ruling out other medical conditions. Therefore, it’s imperative to communicate openly with your healthcare provider so that he or she can prescribe an effective therapy for you.

Managing IBS -- Naturally

Fortunately, it’s possible to effectively manage IBS naturally through simple lifestyle changes. These include:

• Keeping a food diary/undergoing an elimination diet to identify foods that trigger symptoms; avoiding those foods
• Drinking plenty of water to counter the dehydrating effects of diarrhea and help alleviate constipation
• Learning stress reduction and pain management techniques
• Using herbs and supplements that promote GI health, such as probiotics, chamomile, peppermint, and evening primrose oil (for menstruating women)

If you’re thinking of managing your IBS naturally, be sure to let your healthcare provider know. Working together, you can develop a therapeutic lifestyle change program that will help you return to optimal health.