Irritable bowel symptoms. Features of the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: symptoms, which doctor to consult, description of drugs, diet, folk remedies. What not to do

Irritable bowel symptom (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder in which abdominal pain and discomfort is associated with bowel movements. The diagnosis is made only after the exclusion of organic causes: tumors, inflammatory changes, etc. It appears. Most often, patients complain of upset stools, flatulence and before bowel movement. Mucus may be present in the stool.

IBS is a fairly common condition. Up to 20% of people aged 25 to 40 are faced with this problem. Due to the unstable hormonal background, a tendency to depression and mood swings, in women, functional digestive upset occurs 2 times more often than in men.

IBS manifests itself differently in different people. There are three variants of the course of the disease (according to the criteria of the Association of Coloproctologists of Russia):

IBS with a predominance of diarrhea. Loose stools are noted in more than 25% of bowel movements, formalized - in less than 25%. More common in men.
IBS with a predominance of constipation. Dense stools are noted in more than 25% of bowel movements, formalized - in less than 25%. More common in women.
IBS of mixed type. In more than 25% of cases of bowel movements, both hard and loose stools are present.

Pain symptoms

... They are characterized by attacks of cramping abdominal pains without clear localization. Most often, cramping worsens after eating or before bowel movement. Pain syndrome exists for more than 6 months, occurs after eating or against a background of stress. It appears mainly during the day, localized in the lower abdomen. After a bowel movement, the condition improves.
... False urge to empty the bowels with severe abdominal pain and lack of stool. Unpleasant discomfort can overtake in any situation: at work, on vacation, on public transport.

Dyspeptic symptoms

Constipation. Stool is rare, once every 3-5 days. Feces hard, fragmented ("sheep feces").
Diarrhea. Frequent bowel movements, more than 3 times a day. The stool is loose, watery.
Possible alternation of constipation and diarrhea.
... Increased gas production in the intestines, accompanied by bloating and an increase in the size of the abdomen.
Feeling of incomplete bowel movement. After spontaneous defecation, a feeling of fullness in the abdominal cavity remains.
The appearance of mucous discharge in the stool. They can be transparent or white.

Psycho-emotional symptoms

Increased anxiety and depression. In moments of stressful situations (a breakdown in love relationships, exams, the death of a close relative, trouble at work, etc.), a person develops an emotional disorder. It can be manifested by tearfulness, a feeling of fear, excessive anxiety, bad mood, melancholy, and other signs.
Sleep disturbance. Possible insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, nightmares.
Decreased libido - unwillingness to have sexual intercourse with a partner for a long period of time.

Astheno-vegetative symptoms

Other symptoms

pain in the lumbar region;
frequent urge and discomfort (soreness, discomfort in the urethra) when urinating.

IBS Causes

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome is made on the basis of patient complaints, clinical manifestations and the results of additional research methods. The doctor should exclude other pathological conditions with similar symptoms (ulcerative colitis, rectal cancer, Crohn's disease, and others).

The main criteria for the diagnosis of IBS

According to the Roman criteria for the diagnosis of diseases of the digestive tract, IBS is exhibited in the presence of the following symptoms:

Recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort for 3 or more days per month in the last 3 months.
The onset of the disease is 6 or more months ago.
Improvement after bowel movement.
The onset of symptoms is associated with changes in the consistency and frequency of stools.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion. Similar symptoms can occur with various pathologies of the digestive tract. The diagnosis should be revised if other symptoms occur against the background of pain and defecation disorders:

the appearance of blood in the feces;
increased body temperature;
unexplained weight loss;
unexplained anemia;
the relationship of symptoms with menstruation (in women);
the association of symptoms with taking medications or specific foods;
obesity on the background of a balanced diet.

These symptoms are not common with IBS, and another cause must be looked for.

Laboratory research methods

They are carried out for the differential diagnosis of IBS with other diseases of the digestive tract.

Complete blood count (CBC)allows you to determine the infectious process in the body and anemia. This is evidenced by the following parameters:

leukocytosis - an increase in the number of leukocytes;
neutrophilia - predominance of neutrophils, lymphocytes are normal;
accelerated ESR - erythrocyte sedimentation rate;
decrease in erythrocytes and hemoglobin.

3. Emollients.Solid feces change their consistency, become softer, and improve their excretion.

Similar properties are possessed by "Good luck", "Duphalac", "Poslabin" other.

For a more pronounced effect, prebiotics can be used in combination with preparations of beneficial bacteria - ("Linex", "Bifiform", "Acipol" and others).

Treatment of IBS with a predominance of flatulence and colic

Psychotherapy

IBS is associated with stress. In many patients, dyspeptic disorders begin to manifest themselves against the background of a depressive state. Therefore, it is important to treat IBS in combination with psychotherapy. Consulting a specialist doctor will help you cope with an unpleasant problem faster. The psychotherapist will prescribe one of the antidepressants ("Amitriptyline", "Imipramine", "Fluoxetine", "Befol" and others), which, due to the calming effect, will reduce neurological manifestations - tachycardia, fear, anxiety, sleep disturbance. Also, the doctor can apply psychological training, hypnosis. This will help avoid panic attacks in the future and teach the patient to cope with difficult life situations.

Yoga classes are helpful. Breathing exercises and meditation promote relaxation and peace of mind.

Folk remedies

IBS is not a disease - it is a functional digestive disorder. There is no infectious process. Therefore, the use of medicinal herbs is permissible.

Possible consequences of the disease

IBS is chronic. It is characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission. Despite this, the progression of the pathological process does not occur. Therefore, there are no serious complications (bleeding, development of a malignant neoplasm, spread of infection, etc.).

The main consequences of IBS are associated with poor quality of life. The main problems of the unpleasant state:

Prevention

If symptoms of irritable bowel appear, you should immediately seek help from a therapist. The specialist will help to exclude dangerous diseases, adjust the menu and prescribe effective drugs.

In free time from work, it is necessary to engage in the study of psychological trainings for effective self-control and the ability to resist stress.

Inflammatory bowel disease is an autoimmune disorder that can have very serious consequences. You can CURE irritable bowel syndrome without pills.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disease that many people struggle with.

Statistics show that one in ten Americans show symptoms of IBS, more than 2 million prescriptions are issued annually, and 35,000 hospitalizations occur. it's the same second most important reason for missing work after a cold.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Natural Remedies

It is important to understand that IBS is completely different from another condition that sounds very similar, namely: inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Inflammatory bowel disease is an autoimmune disorder that can have very serious consequences.

But irritable bowel syndrome, despite the fact that it can cause debilitating pain, is a disorder of bowel function.

In other words, there are no significant physical conditions that can contribute to this problem; therefore, it is a functional disease.

So how do you know if you have IBS?

Common signs and symptoms include frequent:

Discomfort and / or abdominal pain
Spastic colitis (spastic contractions of the colon)
Bloating
Increased gas production
Diarrhea
Constipation

Fortunately, there are some simple, basic strategies that you can use as alternatives to prescribed medications, such as antispasmodics and antidepressants.

These drugs can control symptoms, but do nothing to address the underlying cause.

Avoid all sources of gluten.

The first step for any patient who comes to my clinic with this problem is to switch to a gluten-free diet.

Most people understand what it means to avoid all types of wheat, but it's also important to know that there are many other hidden sources of gluten in your diet.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, but it is also found in other grains, such as:

Barley
Rye
Oats
Wheat

As a general rule, cutting out gluten for just a week or two is enough to see significant improvement.

Aside from gluten, food allergies can also play a role, so pay attention to this and find out which ones you have by trial and error.

Tailor your diet to your personal biochemistry.

Naturally, you need to pay close attention to your diet. Some people thrive on low-carb, high-protein, and high-fat diets.

A typical ratio for a carbohydrate-type diet might be 40 percent protein and 30 percent fat and 30 percent carbohydrate each, but the numbers can easily jump to 50 percent fat and just 10 percent carbohydrate, depending on individual genetic needs.

Others, on the other hand, require a diet high in carbohydrates, low in fat, and low in protein. (However, it's important to understand that there is a big difference between plant-based carbohydrates and grain-based carbohydrates, even though they are both called "carbohydrates."

Grain turns into sugar, which not everyone needs in the diet in large quantities.

Others fall into the middle ground between protein and carbohydrate types and can afford to be less strict with the ratios of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

It is important to understand that if you are not eating well, you are likely to suffer from health problems, and spastic colitis is one of the options for the development of events.

Part of food typing is the focus on food quality.

You need to consume high quality unprocessed food.

Remember that 90 percent of the money spent on food is for food processing. When you choose such foods, you may experience physical complications, and it is not surprising that one of these complications may be in your gut.

Boost healthy bacteria in your gut.

It's also important to make sure you have enough healthy bacteria in your gut. You can get healthy bacteria from fermented foods or high quality supplements.

Once you lower the amount of sugar and processed foods in your diet, you automatically create an environment that will support the growth of good bacteria and reduce the growth of bad bacteria. But you can enhance this process even more by consuming fermented foods or taking a high quality probiotic.

Take fiber.

Fiber supplementation can also be very helpful in controlling IBS symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea. Fiber such as psyllium tends to be particularly beneficial and is my personal favorite.I use it almost every day.

Psyllium is an adaptogenic fiber.This means that if you have constipation, it will soften your stools and help increase the frequency of bowel movements, and if you have diarrhea and frequent bowel movements, it will help with stool formation and decrease the frequency of bowel movements.

If you choose to use psillum, make sure it is organic. as almost all currently marketed products are usually not, and the damage from pesticide residues in most products far outweighs the benefit you get from the fiber itself. Metamucil is a classic inorganic psyllium.

Another good fiber is whole, organic flaxseed. You can take several tablespoons of freshly boiled flaxseed daily.

Another benefit of flax is that it is also a high quality source of plant-based omega-3 fats, especially ALA, which almost everyone needs on a regular basis.

Address emotional issues.

Last but not least, I have found that many people with IBS have an unresolved emotional component that contributes to their physical problem.

This is also one of the reasons why antidepressants are often prescribed.

Prayer and psychological methods and tools such as emotional freedom technique(EFT) are strategies that you can use to effectively deal with your emotional problems.

If irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that you or someone in your family is struggling with, following these tips and tricks can help you and your family manage your health. published If you have any questions about this topic, ask them to the specialists and readers of our project

© Dr. Mercola

P.S. And remember, just by changing your consciousness - together we are changing the world! © econet

If intestinal disorders are bothersome enough and last more than a few months, it can be assumed that the person has developed irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This is a specific condition of the intestine, balancing on the verge of pathology and norm.

Physiology

In the modern world, all kinds of gastrointestinal pathologies in humans are very common. IBS is considered one of the most common diseases in the world. According to statistics, about 20% of the world's population suffers from it, and these are only recorded cases. Due to not very pronounced symptoms of the disease, about 2/3 of people suffering from it do not seek help from specialists.

- This is a violation in the functioning of the digestive system, causing disorders of the stool, flatulence, intestinal spasms.

This condition does not lead to structural disorders of the intestine, the development of complications and is not life-threatening, it only causes discomfort. At the same time, it cannot be completely cured, but the symptoms can be eliminated.

Causes of pathology

At the moment, scientists have not been able to identify the exact causes that cause IBS. When examining people suffering from it, usually no concomitant pathologies are found that can lead to such prolonged and pronounced manifestations. Some scientists are confident that they are associated with a disruption of neuroendocrine connections between the brain and the intestine, due to which the wrong signal is sent from the brain structures to the intestine, resulting in a functional disorder.

Most experts studying the syndrome believe that a combination of mental and physical problems is the culprit for its development. In their opinion, the causes of irritable bowel syndrome may be as follows:

Eating "harmful" foods and eating disorders. There are many foods that can lead to gut problems if consumed regularly. The main ones include: fatty, fried foods, various snacks, cookies, caffeinated and carbonated drinks, chocolate, alcohol. Not the best way on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is affected by constant legends, eating on the go, missing the prescribed meals.
Psychological disorders. Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, frequent stress, etc. lead to overexcitation of the nervous system. As a result, the intestinal mucosa becomes very sensitive and reacts even to minor influences, for example, withdrawal from the usual diet.
Genetic predisposition. Studies have shown that irritable bowel symptoms are more common in those whose parents have IBS.
Hypersensitivity. Some people have a low threshold for sensitivity in the intestines, so they can cause unpleasant sensations even the most common phenomena, for example, slight stretching of the intestines when it is filled with gases or food.
Intestinal motility disorders. Slow motility can cause persistent constipation, and fast motility can cause diarrhea. At the same time, spasms and sharp contractions of the intestinal muscles are not excluded, which can cause pain.
Bacterial overgrowth syndrome. The increased growth of bacteria that colonize the small intestine, as well as the appearance of bacteria that are not typical for it, can cause dysbiosis, diarrhea, flatulence, weight loss, and subsequently IBS.

Symptoms and clinical manifestations

Not all experts attribute IBS to pathological conditions, and therefore do not consider it a disease. However, there are certain signs of irritable bowel syndrome that suggest that a person has this particular disorder. These include:

nausea and flatulence - bloating is less pronounced in the morning and gradually increases, it may become salted after eating;
feeling of heaviness in the abdomen;
feeling as if during the act of defecation the intestines cannot be emptied completely;
alternation of diarrhea and constipation;
the presence of mucous discharge in the feces;
false urge to defecate or urge that appears spontaneously and requires an urgent visit to the toilet;
frequent bowel movements (more than 3 times a day) or rare acts of defecation (less often 3 times a week);
diarrhea - more often occurs after breakfast, within a short period of time, from 2 to 4 acts of defecation can occur, at the first emptying of the intestine, the feces are denser, subsequently becoming more liquid;
constipation - feces can be quite hard and have the appearance of a pencil, it is also possible the presence of a cork-like stool, when feces come out at the beginning of a bowel movement, formed, and then mushy or liquid;
abdominal cramps and pains that disappear after a bowel movement. Pain in irritable bowel can be of a different nature, be aching, dull, burning, etc. More often the pain is localized to the left in the iliac region. It usually increases with meals and decreases with gas, bowel movements, or antispasmodics.

The above symptoms usually intensify after eating and begin paroxysmal. They can have different severity, then weaken, then intensify, appear for several days in a row, and then disappear for a period.

According to the predominance of some clinical symptom, IBS is divided into irritable bowel syndrome with:

constipation;
diarrhea;
alternating constipation and diarrhea (mixed form).

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome associated with the intestines are not the only manifestations of the disorder, patients often have nonspecific signs. Their presence complements the clinical picture. These signs include:

feeling of depression, less often a depressive state;
anxiety;
periodic occurrence of an unusual taste in the mouth, not in any way related to the intake of any food;
pain in the lower back, headaches;
problems with urination - inability to empty the bladder completely, frequent urination, etc.
functional changes in the pulse rhythm (arrhythmia, tachycardia) in the absence of diseases of the cardiovascular system;
sleep disorders - both insomnia and increased drowsiness can develop.

Despite the huge number of complaints, the long duration of the course of the disease, when examining patients with IBS, a satisfactory general condition and normal objective indicators are usually noted.

Which doctor treats irritable bowel syndrome?

If you suspect IBS, you must contact a gastroenterologist, if there is no opportunity to get an appointment with this specialist, you can visit a therapist.

Any, even minor health problems should be the reason for going to the doctor. As for IBS, a combination of at least two of the following signs can indicate its presence:

abdominal pain, they occur periodically, can have different intensity and character, become less pronounced after bowel movement;
a feeling of fullness in the stomach;
flatulence, swelling and bloating;
diarrhea or constipation;
a sudden need to empty the intestines;
discharge of mucus from the anus;
feeling that the intestines are not completely empty;
alternating occurrence of diarrhea and constipation.

The above symptoms of irritable bowel can occur 1-2 times during the month and last for several days in a row. However, it is possible to assume that a patient has IBS only if they are present for more than three months.

Before prescribing any treatment, the doctor will need to establish an accurate diagnosis. Since irritable bowel syndrome does not have unique symptoms and signs that make it easy to distinguish it from other pathologies, the diagnosis of this disease is carried out by the method of exclusion. There are a number of diseases that at the initial stages manifest themselves in the same way as this disorder - abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation or diarrhea, digestive disorders, etc. For IBS, you can take the first signs of the following pathologies:

intestinal dysbiosis;
ulcerative necrotizing colitis;
adhesive disease of the small intestine;
poisoning;
some types of intestinal infections;
inflammatory bowel disease;
crohn's disease;
early stages of intestinal cancer.

Diagnostics usually includes the following activities:

stool analysis;
general blood analysis;
colonoscopy;
blood chemistry;
sigmoidoscopy.

If the need arises, other studies are assigned. In a severe course of the disease, the patient may be offered hospitalization for collecting tests and conducting examinations, as a rule, it does not last long, only a few days. If during the diagnosis it is possible to exclude dangerous diseases, the doctor establishes the final diagnosis, selects the most appropriate therapy.

a psychologist;
neurologist;
psychotherapist;
nutritionist;
physiotherapist;
infectious disease specialist;
pediatrician, this specialist is needed for irritable bowel syndrome in children.

Diagnosis of the disease

There is no specific diagnosis of IBS at the moment, since it does not cause obvious changes in the gastrointestinal tract. To establish a diagnosis, studies are prescribed that will exclude the presence of other diseases with similar symptoms.

The doctor can assume that a patient has irritable bowel syndrome if he is worried for more than 3 months:

pain or bloating, or both, that disappear after a bowel movement;
pain or flatulence, or both of these symptoms, accompanied by constipation or diarrhea;
frequent need to empty the bowels (the need for bowel movements occurs more often than usual).

To confirm the doctor's assumptions, there may still be at least 2 of the following symptoms:

heaviness or tension in the abdomen, bloating;
a feeling of incomplete emptying of the intestines, sudden strong urge to defecate, the need to exert excessively when emptying the intestines;
discharge of mucus from the anus;
increased symptoms after eating;

If you suspect irritable bowel syndrome, mandatory indications for additional studies are the presence, in addition to the above signs, symptoms that indicate some serious illness. These symptoms include:

lump or swelling in the anus or abdomen;
wanton weight loss;
anemia.

The following studies are usually carried out:

general blood analysis;
stool analysis;
blood chemistry;
colonoscopy with biopsy;
sigmoidoscopy;
Ultrasound of the abdominal organs;
esophagogastroduodenoscopy of the duodenum to exclude celiac disease.

Treatment features

IBS symptoms appear differently in different patients, with some prevailing over others. And the disorder itself proceeds unevenly. In this regard, the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome is carried out on a case-by-case basis. Usually, the basis of therapy is diet, the use of medicines, and the patient can also be offered psychological and alternative methods of treatment, and folk remedies are also acceptable.

Diet. Changing your diet is the main and most effective way to combat this disease. The diet must be selected individually, taking into account the body's reaction to different foods and the presence of certain symptoms. A food diary will be a good assistant in drawing up a diet. It records all the foods consumed and the body's response to them. In this way, food is determined that contributes to the development or intensification of symptoms. It is her in the future that will need to be avoided in the first place. There are general recommendations as well. So the diet for irritable bowel syndrome involves the consumption of large amounts of fiber, regular frequent meals, drinking enough water, reducing the diet of "harmful" foods and drinks - fried, fatty, alcohol, coffee, soda, etc.
Medication. Drug therapy is selected depending on the presence of certain symptoms. Antispasmodics are used to relieve spasms and relieve pain. With IBS, manifested by constipation, mass-forming laxatives are prescribed, they increase the fluid content in the stool, making it softer. If the irritable bowel is accompanied by diarrhea, antidiarrheal drugs are used, which increase the time for food to move through the gastrointestinal tract, which allows the feces to thicken. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antidepressants.
Psychological therapy. All kinds of psychotherapeutic measures (conversation therapy, hypnosis, etc.) will help reduce the manifestations of anxiety that often accompany IBS, reduce the influence of the subconscious on the occurrence of some symptoms of the disease, get rid of depressive conditions, etc.
Alternative treatments. There are additional therapies that are not used as often. These include bowel irrigation, reflexology, acupuncture.

Diet and nutritional habits of patients with IBS

As with most gastrointestinal diseases, a diet for irritable bowel syndrome is essential. Moreover, it is the main treatment for this pathology. In some cases, it is enough to change the diet and follow a certain diet to get rid of the symptoms of IBS.

First of all, it's worth noting that there is no one single diet for people with IBS. Food for irritable bowel is selected individually, taking into account the prevailing symptoms - diarrhea, constipation, etc.

It should also be borne in mind that each organism is individual, and therefore reacts differently to different foods. To track the effect of a particular food on your well-being, experts recommend that every person with IBS keep a food diary. It is constantly necessary to add to it all the products that the patient ate during the day, and then note how the body reacted to them. Thus, it will gradually be possible by the method of exclusion to identify all the food that the body does not tolerate well and responds to it with a deterioration in well-being.

In addition, there are a number of general dietary guidelines for people with irritable bowel disease and a list of foods that must be avoided, regardless of the prevalence of symptoms.

Nutrition rules:

Try to never skip meals. You should eat regularly, in limited portions a day at least 4 times, and better 6. Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly;
Do not overeat at night, because during sleep, peristalsis and enzyme production are significantly reduced. Food that entered the human body shortly before he went to bed is not fully digested and begins to rot, resulting in fermentation processes that further aggravate intestinal problems;
Make up your diet so that the body receives all the necessary components - fatty acids, vitamins, amino acids, micro and macro elements. For irritable bowel syndrome, fiber-rich foods are especially beneficial to improve digestion. It is necessary to introduce such food into the menu gradually so that the body gets used to it. If this is not done, it is possible that side reactions may occur - intestinal spasms, flatulence, etc.
Drink at least one and a half liters of liquid daily, preferably pure water. This rule is true for absolutely everyone, even for healthy people.
Prepare food in a way such as boiling, baking, or steaming. Frying food is not recommended.
When preparing meals, try to use the minimum amount of salt.
Limit the number of servings of fruit. It is advisable to eat them no more than 3 times a day, for one serving should have, for example, about half a grapefruit or apple.

Prohibited foods for irritable bowel:

Foods that cause flatulence and fermentation are sodas, whole milk, sweets, legumes, fresh vegetables and fruits in large quantities.
Irritants - hot spices, smoked meats, caffeine, too salty foods, alcohol, hot spices, marinades, sour fruits and vegetables.
Food allergens are preservatives, dyes, and other chemicals that are found in many store products.
Foods that negatively affect the work of the pancreas and liver - fried foods, animal fats (including butter), fatty fish, meat, poultry skin.

Features of the diet for IBS with diarrhea

The main task in IBS with diarrhea is to reduce fermentation and putrefactive processes that occur in the intestines, to normalize the digestive tract. Therefore, a diet with an irritable bowel, the main symptom of which is diarrhea, excludes from the menu all food that can provoke rotting and fermentation, increase peristalsis and contribute to stool thinning. It is recommended to limit or completely exclude the following products:

Vegetables and fruits are high in fiber and sugar. It is also worth giving up the consumption of peels, cores and seeds, similar fruits. Foods rich in fiber and sugar contribute to fermentation processes, increased gas formation and accelerate the movement of feces. On days of exacerbations, it is worth giving up absolutely all fruits and vegetables.
Products with a high yeast content that stimulate fermentation processes. These products include baked goods, black bread.
Foods rich in potassium, a lot of this substance is found in dried fruits.
Foods containing a large amount of spicy ingredients and salt. It promotes the filling of the gastrointestinal tract with liquid, as a result of which diarrhea increases.
Milk and fresh fermented milk products. Such food is difficult to digest, so it is also better to exclude it from the menu in case of irritable bowel.
Sugar and sweets. They enhance the fermentation process, especially when consumed in large quantities.

In order to slightly slow down intestinal motility, it is worth eating dishes that are well absorbed and easily go through the processes of splitting and absorption. In addition, it is recommended to enrich the diet with food that helps to strengthen the stool. The menu should be composed of the following products:

dried wheat bread, crackers;
astringent berries - blueberries, black currants, cherries;
lean meat and fish;
broth of oats, soups with oatmeal;
rice dishes;
porridge, casseroles;
vegetable puree, vegetable soups;
boiled eggs, but in small quantities;
in limited quantities, fermented milk products that were released more than 2 days before consumption - kefir, pureed cottage cheese, yogurt;

At the very beginning of the diet, you should completely abandon fruits and vegetables, then as your condition improves, you can begin to include cooked tender vegetables in the menu. If the body reacts normally to such a diet, you can gradually increase the amount of these foods and add fruits to the diet. In its raw form, such food should be consumed only a few months after starting the diet.

See also:.

Features of the diet for IBS with constipation

With frequent constipation, first of all, it is worth avoiding food that has a fixing effect, irritating the digestive tract, causing fermentation. In this case, nutrition for irritable bowel syndrome consists in the exclusion of such products and the introduction of food into the diet that improves the motor function of the intestine.

Prohibited foods include:

muffins, pastries, pastries;
chocolate, cocoa, tea, coffee;
jelly;
mashed porridge, especially rice;

With irritable bowel syndrome with flatulence, in addition to the above foods, you should also avoid the following:

whole milk;
rye bread;
legumes;
cabbage, potatoes;
watermelons, grapes.

bran bread, pearl barley, millet, buckwheat - they are good sources of vegetable fiber;
vegetables and fruits are especially useful - pumpkin, carrots, beets, prunes; for a laxative effect, it is better to process such products thermally;
fresh dairy products - they will help to populate the intestines with useful microflora;
chicken eggs, meat and fish, low-fat varieties.

To facilitate the passage of food through the digestive tract and accelerate peristalsis, it is necessary to consume as much plant food as possible. It is very beneficial to consume bran every day, which, like a brush, cleanses the intestines. In addition, the diet for irritable bowel syndrome should be supplemented with plenty of fluids. The liquid will help soften the feces and make them easier to exit.

Folk remedies

Despite the fact that IBS is not a serious disease and does not lead to any complications, it must be treated without fail. If this is not done, over time, the symptoms of the disease will only intensify and will cause even more discomfort. In addition to diet and medication, you can treat irritable bowel syndrome with folk remedies. Often, this therapy for IBS gives very good results.

First of all, it is worth noting that in order for treatment with folk remedies to be truly effective, it must be combined with a special diet, since it is this diet that is the main and most effective way to combat IBS.

Most drugs have a rather narrow, but strong effect. There is no need for such a directed effect in this disorder, because it is most often associated with disorders of the innervation of the intestine or its motility. In addition, many medicinal plants have a calming effect, which is exactly what is needed for IBS.

Alternative treatment of irritable bowel will reduce the intensity of most symptoms of the disease and reduce the frequency of exacerbations. With the help of these or those recipes, you can eliminate diarrhea, get rid of constipation and flatulence. However, before using any means, it is imperative to consult a specialist. This is due to the fact that:

firstly, you need to make sure that the patient has IBS, and not any other disease, because many others have similar symptoms, and quite serious diseases;
secondly, some of the folk remedies can aggravate chronic diseases that have nothing to do with the intestines.

Folk recipes for IBS with diarrhea

To eliminate such an unpleasant symptom of irritable bowel syndrome as diarrhea, you can use the following remedies:

Tincture of walnuts. Coarsely chop 100 grams of green nuts together with the peel, place them in a glass container (preferably made of dark glass) and pour a glass of vodka, while the liquid should completely cover the fruits. It is necessary to insist on the remedy for a week. It is taken in half a teaspoon a quarter of an hour after eating. It is better not to use this remedy for severe abdominal pain.
A decoction of hawthorn fruits. Pour 10 grams of dried fruit with a glass of boiling water. After that, place the mixture on low heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Leave the fruits for half an hour to brew, then strain. The tool is recommended to be taken three times a day for adults, 2 tablespoons, for children - 1, diluting it in equal proportions with water. This broth is especially effective for irritable bowel syndrome in children.
Infusion of rye rusks. Pour half a glass of crackers with a glass of warm boiled water. Leave them for 12 hours, then strain through a sieve (sediment should remain in the drink). Drink the infusion in small doses throughout the day, shaking well before use. You need to take the remedy before the onset of improvement.

Folk recipes for IBS with constipation

Constipation is one of the most common symptoms of IBS. Treatment with folk remedies for irritable bowel syndrome, accompanied by this problem, can be carried out by the following means:

Onion juice. Wash a small onion and squeeze the juice out of it. It is best to use freshly squeezed juice, so it is advisable to prepare a new portion each time. It is necessary to take it 0.5-1 tablespoon three times a day, before meals. Such treatment should be carried out for 3 weeks, then for 3 weeks it is necessary to stop taking the drug. Onion juice relaxes the intestines well, but it should not be taken by nursing mothers and with severe flatulence.
Broth of buckthorn bark. Pour a spoonful of a tablespoon of bark with a glass of boiling water, then place it on the fire and boil for about a quarter of an hour. Strain the product and dilute with an equal volume of boiled water. Take three times a day before meals. Single dose 1 teaspoon. This folk remedy for irritable bowel, accompanied by severe pain, is not recommended.
Infusion of thorny leaves. Pour a tablespoon of raw materials into a thermos, then pour a glass of boiling water into it. Let the product steep, then take half a glass three times a day for at least a week.

Remedies for pain and flatulence

Flatulence and pain can occur, both with a mixed form of the disease, so accompanied only by constipation or diarrhea. For the folk treatment of irritable bowel, in this case, you can use the following recipes:

Mint infusion. Pour a spoonful of raw materials with a glass of boiling water and leave for twenty minutes. Strain the infusion and drink in small sips three times a day thirty minutes before meals. You need to drink 100-150 ml at a time. infusion. Such a remedy normalizes stool, relaxes the intestinal walls, soothes aching pains.
Decoction of cherry fruits. This remedy relieves abdominal pain. Steam a tablespoon of dry fruits with a glass of boiling water. Then boil the composition over low heat for about 5 minutes, let it cool slightly and strain, while the fruits cannot be crushed, since there are harmful substances inside them. Drink the broth three times a day, 50 ml. after eating.
Infusion of carrot seeds. The remedy is good for flatulence. In the evening, pour a tablespoon of seeds into a thermos, then add two cups of boiling water to them. In the morning strain the infusion, drink it in small sips twice a day in a glass.
Dill seed infusion. Pour 2 teaspoons of raw materials with a glass of boiling water. After an hour, strain the product. Take it half a glass three times a day. This infusion prevents the accumulation of gases.

Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with folk remedies is recommended periodically, when symptoms appear. It should be borne in mind that recipes are not universal, they can help some, while others will not work at all. The patient may even have to try several treatment regimens before he selects what is right for him. If it is not possible to achieve a positive effect from the treatment or new symptoms arise, you must consult a doctor again.

Drugs for conservative treatment

There are various treatments for IBS. One of the main ones is drug therapy. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with medications is necessary to eliminate the main symptoms, normalize the stool and, if necessary, a psychoemotional state.

The choice of tactics for treating irritable bowel syndrome depends on many factors - the leading symptom (constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, pain), its severity and impact on the quality of life, the patient's mental state, the nature of the manifestations of the disease, etc.

In some cases, adhering to a special diet and eating regimen can completely restore bowel function, as well as eliminate IBS symptoms. If such measures are not enough, simple folk remedies can be used, but drug therapy is more often prescribed.

To date, there is no single effective therapeutic scheme for the treatment of this syndrome. All appointments are carried out individually, based on the clinical variant of the disease and is mandatory only after a complete examination, as well as the exclusion of organic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract.

Medicines for irritable bowel can be used in different ways. The following groups of funds are most often assigned:

Antidiarrheal drugs - relieve diarrhea;
Laxatives - help relieve constipation;
Antispasmodics - eliminate spasms, relieve pain;
Antidepressants - used to treat depression, they also have a sedative effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

In addition to the above drugs, many specialists also prescribe probiotics for the treatment of IBS.

Antispasmodics for IBS

Usually, to eliminate pain syndrome, and with it the degree of gas formation, doctors use antispasmodics for IBS. These funds prevent contraction of smooth muscle cells, as a result of which spasm of the intestinal wall does not occur. The following drugs may be prescribed to treat irritable bowel syndrome:

Duspatalin. It is classified as a selective calcium channel antagonist. It is a myotropic antispasmodic that selectively affects intestinal smooth muscles. The drug normalizes the motility of the gastrointestinal tract in a quarter of the time after administration.
Buscopan. It has antispasmodic activity, improves the movement of feces through the intestines. Against the background of taking this drug, side effects such as increased blood pressure, accommodation spasm, tachycardia are very weak. The drug belongs to M-anticholinergics.

In addition, traditionally used drugs include No-shpa, Papaverin, Galidor.

Stool normalization preparations

Diarrhea and constipation are among the main symptoms of IBS, and they are the ones that most often cause the greatest discomfort. To combat such manifestations, antidiarrheal or laxatives are used, possibly the appointment of enterosorbents.

IBS with diarrhea In this condition, it is necessary to slow down the movement of feces through the intestines. The most commonly used medicines for irritable bowel disease with this symptom are Loperamide and Imodium. They affect intestinal motility, increasing the time it takes for food to move through the digestive tract. This makes it possible to thicken and achieve the required volume of feces, which reduces the number of acts of defecation. In addition, with frequent loose stools, enterosorbents (Enterosgel) can be prescribed. They absorb gases and toxic substances, prevent irritation by feces of the intestinal mucosa. If IBS, in addition to diarrhea, is also accompanied by flatulence, it is worth using the drug Imodium plus.
IBS accompanied by constipation. Treatment of this type of disease is carried out with laxatives. It is best to use mass-forming laxatives such as Citrucel, Metamucil, or Fitomucil. Such drugs increase the weight of the stool and the amount of fluid in it. This makes the stool softer and allows it to pass freely through the intestines. When using such funds, it is imperative to consume a large amount of liquid, since they are made on the basis of fiber, as well as substances similar in consistency, which, when they enter the intestines, begin to swell. Also, the treatment of irritable bowel, proceeding with constipation, can be carried out with the help of saline laxatives, for example, Magnesia, Lactulose (Dufalak) can be recommended.

Antidepressants for IBS

When people with IBS have symptoms such as depression or increased anxiety, antidepressants are usually prescribed. Such drugs for irritable bowel syndrome should be used only under the supervision of a physician and always observe the recommended doses and the time they are taken. The following groups of funds are often used:

Tricyclic antidepressants (Doxepin, Imipramine, Amitriptyline). They relieve depression, have analgesic and neuromodulatory effects, and also have anticholinergic effects, due to which intestinal transit is slowed down. Imipramine or amitriptyline may be prescribed even if there are no signs of depression but abdominal pain and diarrhea are present.
Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (fevarin, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline). These funds have fewer side effects than the first. In addition to their antidepressant effect, they reduce abdominal pain and improve bowel movement.

The beneficial effect of antidepressants is to reduce the level of anxiety and depression, as well as their ability to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with digestion by acting on the spine "brain-intestine".

Probiotics for IBS

Various intestinal disorders are usually accompanied by a violation of the microflora in the intestine. It is useful to take probiotics to normalize it. They are a substance of microbial origin, they include live microorganisms that belong to the physiologically normal intestinal flora. Once in the organ, such microorganisms create an acidic environment, which helps to suppress the growth of putrefactive and gas-forming flora, and also produce antibacterial substances that inhibit the development of pathogenic and opportunistic microflora. There are the following groups of probiotics:

Multicomponent - bifidumbacterin, enterol, colibacterin, lactobacilli, bactisubtil, bactisporin, sporobacterin, nutrolin.
Multicomponent - bifilong, linex, biosporin, bifidin, bifinorm, yogulact.
Combined - bifidumbacterin forte, kipatsid, acipol.
Recombined - subalin.

Probiotics can come in the form of nutritional supplements or medicines. In the first, in addition to living microorganisms, there are also other useful substances - adaptogens, trace elements, vitamins.

IBS patients should know that successful treatment of the disease is possible only with an integrated approach. Treatment of irritable bowel with drugs must be combined with a special diet, diet. It is advisable to supplement it with psychotherapy, which will help stabilize the psychoemotional sphere of the patient, which will reduce too high sensitivity to provoking factors.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

In principle, IBS in children is caused by the same factors as in adults - the nature of nutrition, heredity, motor disorders, special psychoemotional states, inflammation reactions, disturbances in the activity of the autonomic and central nervous system, causing changes in the motor function of the intestine, etc. Differences in the manifestation of the disease, as well as difficulties in its diagnosis, can be explained by some physiological and anatomical features of the child's body, namely:

an incomplete set of digestive enzymes, this becomes the reason that not every food can be digested normally;
greater mobility of intestinal loops than in adults;
the gradual reproduction of microflora in the intestine, the older the child gets, the closer the composition of his microflora in the intestine becomes to normal;
more frequent cases of food allergies;
the inability to fully control the intestinal muscles by the nervous system;
hypersensitivity to all kinds of intestinal infections;
accelerated formation of feces;
weaker fixation of the submucosa and the mucous membrane itself in the rectum;
more frequent episodes of fermentation in the intestines and, as a result of the accumulation of gas, in babies;
accelerated differentiation and growth of cells in organs;
less intensive production of bile due to which fats are less digested.

As in the case of adults, in children, the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome is carried out in a complex manner.

The basis of therapy is adherence to diet and diet, this, if necessary, can be supplemented by taking medications, physiotherapeutic procedures, herbal medicine, sometimes it is permissible to use folk remedies. In parallel with the main treatment, patients are recommended to increase physical activity and psychotherapeutic effects.

Diet for IBS

Nutrition for this disease should be selected individually for each child based on the prevailing symptoms, as well as the characteristics of the body, how he tolerates certain foods. However, there are a number of general recommendations:

First of all, it is necessary to exclude carbonated drinks, smoked meats, marinades, chewing gum, chips, crackers and other snacks, coarse fiber, whole milk from the children's diet.
You should reduce the amount of carbohydrates in the menu.
For constipation, you can partially replace sugar with sorbitol, xylitol, it is recommended to add bran to cereals or soups, give your child prunes, figs, dried apricots, honey.
With diarrhea, it is better to eat food warm, preferably homemade crackers, rice, weak broths, apples. For the period of exacerbation, you need to completely abandon raw fruits and vegetables.
For any type of illness, you should eat regularly, at the same time, in small amounts at least 5 times a day.

Drug therapy

It is necessary only if a change in diet, an increase in physical activity, psychotherapeutic influence did not bring positive results. Treatment of irritable bowel in children with drugs is carried out depending on the predominant symptom:

With severe pain, antispasmodics are prescribed (Spasmomen, Trimebutin, No-shpa).
For flatulence, Simethicone, Sub-Simplex, Espumisan are used, which are capable of destroying gas bubbles.
IBS with constipation is treated with osmotic laxatives (Lactulose, Forlax), prokinetics (Cisapride).
In case of a disease accompanied by diarrhea, use antidiarrheal (Imodium, Loperamide), astringents (fruits of bird cherry and blueberries, cinquefoil root, oak bark, tannin), adsorbents (Smecta, activated carbon).
When IBS is combined with depression, increased anxiety is best achieved with antidepressant medication. It is advisable to supplement therapy with such drugs with psychotherapy sessions. Many pediatricians prefer to use phytopreparations for the treatment of children, for example, Novo-Passit, Persen, etc.

The psychological aspect of treatment

In order for the treatment to be effective, parents and a sick child need to understand the essence of the disease. IBS is not a serious disease, does not lead to any serious consequences and complications. But, despite this, it is impossible to turn a blind eye to her, because the symptoms of an irritable bowel of the patient can bother him throughout his life, sometimes becoming more pronounced, then practically disappearing. How long the periods of improvement will be depends on the child himself, on how he will relate to his illness, his lifestyle, thoughts, nutrition.

In many ways, it depends on the parents how the irritable bowel will proceed and be treated in children. Adults should not unnecessarily patronize the child and treat him as a seriously ill person, since such an approach can lead to "withdrawal into the disease" and aggravate its manifestations. The task of parents is to behave optimistically, to try to exclude possible traumatic factors from the child's life, overload at home and at school.

For children, the prognosis for IBS remains always favorable. Complications almost never occur, and the disease gradually disappears. The long-term course of irritable bowel syndrome in children (over many years or even up to adulthood) is usually encountered when trying to cure the disease on their own or with neglect of diet and other recommendations of specialists.

Prevention

Given that stress is one of the main reasons for irritable bowel syndrome, it is very important to avoid situations that can lead to it and learn how to get rid of this condition as quickly as possible. Unhurried walks, swimming, walking help relieve stress. Relaxation techniques such as breathing or meditation, exercise such as Tai Chi or yoga are good for soothing. Reducing the number of stressful situations in life and increasing resistance to it will definitely help reduce the intensity and frequency of IBS attacks.

Irritable bowel syndrome, or in other words, IBS, is a persistent functional disturbance in the work of the intestines, expressed in chronic discomfort, pain and cramps in the abdomen and accompanied by a change in the frequency and consistency of stools in the absence of organic causes. It is even more likely not a disease, but a syndrome that has a psychological basis and arises from the reaction of an overly sensitive intestine to stress and other unfavorable life situations.

IBS is considered one of the most common diseases in the world; it affects up to 20% of the world's adult population. Doctors note that the syndrome often manifests itself between the ages of 25 and 40, although it often begins in childhood and adolescence. In the fairer sex, this pathology is observed twice as often as in men. It is noted that in most cases people with irritable bowel syndrome do not seek medical help on time, as they consider the malaise to be the result of malnutrition or physiological characteristics of the body.

Today, most physicians believe that the main cause of IBS is stress and psycho-emotional overstrain. Constant negative emotions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders negatively affect the state of the nervous system, constantly maintaining it in an agitated state.

This leads to impaired intestinal motility and excessive sensitivity of its inner lining to any adverse effects. In these conditions, even minor errors in the usual diet or the use of a particular food can cause symptoms of IBS. In addition, there are a number of possible causes of pain and discomfort. It:

The more of the above factors will cause IBS, the more its symptoms will manifest.

Symptoms of the disease

Irritable bowel symptoms usually appear after a meal and are paroxysmal. Discomfort and painful sensations last from two to four days, after which they disappear without a trace. The presence of this disease is said in the case when the symptoms persist for a long time (more than a month) or unpleasant and painful manifestations recur within the last three months, and each month continues for 2-3 days in a row.

The main symptoms are:

Abdominal cramps and pain that go away after a bowel movement. The nature of the pain is wandering, the patient cannot accurately determine the place of its localization
Constipation (stools less than three times a week) or, in some cases, these conditions may alternate
Excessive gassing (flatulence)
Swelling and bloating
Sudden and intense urge to defecate
Feeling of incomplete bowel movement after stool
The appearance of mucus in the feces

In addition to these symptoms, there are general signs of the disease that are not related to intestinal symptoms:

Anxiety and depressive conditions, headaches
Lumbar pain, heart rhythm disturbances
Decreased libido
Frequent urge and discomfort when urinating
Vegetative disorders
a (chilliness, lump in throat, shortness of breath)

Signs of bowel irritation can appear immediately after a meal or in a stressful situation. In women, IBS symptoms may occur before menstruation.

Irritable bowel syndrome classification

Depending on which symptom is leading, intestinal irritation is divided into three types:

IBS with diarrhea
IBS with a predominance of constipation
IBS, accompanied by cramping abdominal pain and flatulence

How is IBS diagnosed?

Since this disease does not cause pathological changes in the gastrointestinal tract, there is no single test to determine the disease. To diagnose an ailment, an experienced physician must rule out other possible illnesses with similar symptoms. If at least two of the following are present, the healthcare professional may suggest that the patient has IBS:

The patient complains of constipation or diarrhea, pain or bloating that disappears after a bowel movement
Frequent sudden urge to defecate, a feeling of incomplete bowel movement after it, the appearance of mucus in the stool
Unpleasant symptoms are most severe after eating.

Having identified these symptoms, the doctor may order a number of studies to help confirm the diagnosis. General and biochemical blood test. The study will determine the number of blood elements such as leukocytes, erythrocytes, platelets. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and the number of leukocytes will indicate whether there is an infectious process in the body.

Analysis for celiac disease. It will help to exclude such a disease of the digestive tract as celiac disease. A blood test is done to check the body's immune response to gluten. This reaction leads to damage to the small intestine and causes frequent bouts of diarrhea and impaired digestion.

Colonoscopy and sigmoid monoscopy... for examining the rectum and colon, and sigmoidoscopy will allow you to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. Such examinations are carried out after special preparation of the patient, the procedures are performed in a medical institution by experienced specialists.

MRI and computed tomography... It is prescribed in order to exclude such serious diseases, fecal stones, inflammation of appendicitis or oncological diseases.

Treatment of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome): drugs and folk remedies

Complex therapy in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome includes the use of medications in combination with the correction of psycho-emotional states and adherence to a certain diet.

Drug therapy for IBS includes the use of the following drugs:

Considering the fact that stress factors play an important role in the onset of the disease, psychotherapeutic measures will help to significantly improve well-being and reduce the intensity of IBS manifestations. Patients with a similar diagnosis are advised to consult a psychotherapist. Psychological techniques will reduce the level of anxiety, help avoid panic attacks, teach you to resist stressful situations and adequately respond to problems.

Hypnotherapy successfully reduces the influence of the subconscious mind on the appearance of certain clinical symptoms of the disease. Psychological training using relaxation techniques can help calm and strengthen the nervous system. Yoga classes, special breathing exercises and meditation will teach you quick and correct relaxation. And physical education and medical gymnastics will help strengthen the body and improve the nervous system.

Diet for IBS: proper nutrition

In irritable bowel syndrome, diet is very important. It should contribute to the normal functioning of the digestive system, be balanced, rich in vitamins and essential nutrients. In case of constipation, the correct diet has a cleansing function, in case of diarrhea, it reduces indigestion. You need to eat fractionally, in small portions, every three to four hours, the daily calorie intake should not exceed 2500-2800 Kcal.

With IBS, it is necessary to exclude from the diet foods that cause putrefactive and fermentative processes in the body, nausea and bloating. Choose foods that are high in protein and fiber, and avoid those that are poorly tolerated by your body.

If the syndrome is accompanied by constipation, include foods that improve intestinal motor function in the diet:

For constipation, flour and confectionery products from butter dough, jelly, slimy soups, mashed cereals, chocolate, strong coffee, tea are excluded from the diet. If flatulence suffers during constipation, whole milk, rye bread, legumes, grapes, cabbage, potatoes are removed from the diet.

Nutritionists advise to consume beets, prunes, freshly squeezed vegetable and fruit juices, carrots, pumpkin. Avoid hot dishes, they should be served warm. If IBS occurs with diarrhea, the foods included in the daily menu should reduce intestinal motility. You can not eat foods that provoke loose stools and stimulate bowel movements. Recommended products:

Sausages, sugar, salt, spices, seasonings, sauces, spicy and pickled dishes are removed from the diet. Exclude from the menu fruits, vegetables, fatty fish and meat, whole milk and fresh dairy products, bran bread, flour products made from butter dough, carbonated drinks. Food is taken in small portions, as often as possible, up to six times a day. Such a low-calorie diet is not prescribed for a long time, as it can cause vitamin and protein starvation and lead to depletion of the body.

Treatment of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) with alternative methods

Before using traditional medicine, you should consult with a gastroenterologist and your doctor and avoid factors that trigger the onset of the syndrome. During treatment, try to refrain from alcohol, smoking, eat right, and avoid physical exertion and nervous strain.

With diarrhea, medicinal plants such as sage, white cinquefoil, serpentine, blueberries help well. Decoctions and infusions can be prepared from medicinal herbs, and strong tea can be brewed with blueberries. Herbs such as fennel, mint, and valerian will help relieve pain. With severe flatulence, anise, cumin and chamomile are great help.

As a preventive measure for irritable bowel syndrome, doctors advise giving up smoking and alcohol, leading an active lifestyle, not overeating, including foods rich in fiber in the diet, playing sports and avoiding stressful situations.

It is necessary to give up foods that cause intestinal irritation, eat whole grain bread, dairy products with bifidobacteria, drink up to one and a half liters of liquid daily. This will help keep your bowels working properly and avoid unpleasant symptoms.

In any case, patients with IBS should not start the disease, take into account their individual characteristics when drawing up the menu, not look for recommendations and folk remedies on the Internet forums, but seek help from specialists in time. Doctors will conduct the necessary examination, help to adjust the menu and prescribe all the necessary medications. Only through joint efforts can you improve your well-being and defeat the disease.