Irritable bowel syndrome cannot be cured, but a variety of self-care changes may help sufferers find relief from their unpleasant symptoms. Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common digestive condition affecting up to one in five Americans! Doctors aren't sure what causes IBS, but its symptoms are quite unpleasant, and include diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. People whose main complaint is constipation may benefit...from a gradual boost in their fiber intake. That's because fiber binds to water in the intestine, softening stool, which makes it easier to pass. It's best to consume between twenty and thirty-five grams of fiber daily, in the forms of beans, fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole wheat breads. Meanwhile, people with diarrhea will want to avoid too much fiber. It may also be helpful to bypass fried and fatty foods, carbonated and caffeinated beverages, and the sugars, fructose and sorbitol. In addition, chewing gum, which lets more air into the stomach, may cause gas, in turn making diarrhea sufferers feel even worse. Changing the way in which you eat may help. Consuming meals at regular intervals and taking care not to skip meals will help regulate bowel function. Some doctors believe that an influx of stress can lead to colon spasms. Indeed, people with upset bowels often notice a lessening of symptoms after trying behavioral therapy, like relaxation techniques. Many IBS patients find that talking to a therapist alleviates symptoms over time. This is particularly true for those with depression or panic disorder, both of which commonly occur in conjunction with IBS. On occasion, medications can trigger diarrhea or constipation. Antibiotics, antidepressants like Prozac, and cough syrups which contain sorbitol may all lead to symptom flare-ups. IBS sufferers should talk to their doctors about the side-effects of their everyday medications and consider switching to forms that won't worsen IBS symptoms. Getting regular cardiovascular exercise, such as jogging or swimming, may also ease the discomfort of IBS. Not only does exercise help reduce tension that can lead to symptoms, but it may also stimulate normal contractions of the bowels. Exercise may also relieve abdominal pain, as can heat treatments such as warm baths or heating pads. If these lifestyle changes don't ease the severity of your IBS, or if the condition is actually debilitating, your doctor may recommend medication to ease the symptoms. If you believe that you may have irritable bowel syndrome, you don't have to suffer in silence! Please make an appointment to talk with a physician about treatment options.