Irish Visitors Click HereIrritable Bowel Syndrome
What can I do to relieve the symptoms?
While there is no outright "cure" for IBS, there are various steps you can take to try and alleviate the symptoms:
1) TRY AND CHANGE YOUR DIET
Go for foods that are:- low in fat
- low in sugar
- high in the right sort of fibre - a balance of cereals, wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables (bran can actually make the symptoms of IBS worse)
- cut down on caffeine and fizzy drinks
- drink plenty of water or fruit juice
2) TRY TO RELAX
Many IBS sufferers can find relaxation a big help. There are numerous books and tapes available to help you in this.
- body awareness - concentrate on different parts of your body in turn
- tensing and relaxing each part of your body in turn
- breathing exercises
- imagery exercises - visualising yourself in a calm place
- listening to relaxing music
3) TRY A REMEDY
There are various remedies available for the treatment of the symptoms of IBS, although some are only available through your doctor.
Constipation Remedies If you are suffering constipation as a consequence of IBS - you may want to try a constipation remedy - these remedies include:- Those that increase soluble fibre, such as "bulk-forming" remedies, eg, those containing ispaghula husk. Ispaghula husk is available in a drink and softens and adds bulk to the stool, making the passing of waste easier. Bran and insoluble fibre can be difficult for some IBS sufferers to tolerate. The soluble fibre in Isphagula husk can make the stool easier to pass.
- Those that relieve constipation and get your digestive system moving again, eg, those containing Senna.
If dietary and lifestyle changes have not worked very well, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about treatment options. Just remember you are not alone - up to one in ten people suffer symptoms badly enough to seek medical assistance.
Click here to download our Guide to Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - PDF 559kb
A way to treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
Fybogel Mebeverine is an easy to take, convenient drink for the treatment of symptoms of IBS. It is a combination of active ingredients which can be effective in relaxing the spasms of the gut and the associated pain. At the same time, Fybogel Meberverine can help you to restore and maintain regularity.
Diagnosis of IBS must be obtained from your doctor before taking this product.
Always read the label.
- Find out what the symptoms of IBS are
- IBS can have an big impact on your lifestyle - find out how to cope with IBS
- Going to see your GP about IBS can be embarrassing - find out what you need to prepare
- Join a support group and talk to other sufferers - view our list of IBS support group links
- Not sure if you have IBS? Fill in our checklist to find out
