Irritable Bowel Syndrome: cycle of stress
Dr. Peter Whorewell, consultant physician and senior lecturer in medicine at the Whittington Hospital, Manchester, found that gut-centred hypnotherapy can improve IBS symptoms by 80 per cent. "This kind of hypnotherapy, which involves visualising the gut, not only reduces spasms but also reduces sensitivity in the lining of the bowel."
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a frequently stress-related disorder, is characterized by a chronic alteration in bowel habits. Marked by a pattern of alternating diarrhea and constipation, and often accompanied by painful cramping, IBS can't be traced to a structural abnormality. But although the syndrome is frequently precipitated by stress, its roots are physiological and its symptoms are real.
There is no single way to manage IBS and the treatment chosen depends on the symptoms. If a pattern of alternating constipation and diarrhea is the primary indication, increased dietary fibre would be the initial treatment of choice. Suspected IBS patients also may be asked to avoid certain foods for specific lengths of time while doctor and patient work together to isolate potential problem foods.
If dietary changes don't alleviate IBS symptoms, some patients may be candidates for medication, including compounds to relax the bowel muscle, drugs to relieve diarrhea or natural fibre to relieve constipation.
An important factor in controlling IBS is stress management. If a patients IBS is primarily triggered by stress, then diet and medication will offer only partial relief. In addition to releasing stress, IBS patients are encouraged to identify and manage stress factors in their lives.
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