IBS Treatment Options
A short bout of abdominal pain and diarrhea or constipation now and then is not unusual. But long-term or recurring symptoms are not normal. They may signal irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – and are generally treatable.
IBS Treatments Depend on Symptom Severity
Mild symptoms occur infrequently. They sometimes interfere with normal daily functioning.
Moderate symptoms occur more intensely and frequently. They more often interfere with daily activities.
Severe symptoms are frequent and intense. They chronically interfere with daily functioning.
All IBS treatment should begin with education about the nature of the disorder
- IBS is a long-term condition
- Symptoms flare over and over again
- Symptoms can change over time
- The symptoms themselves are not life threatening
- IBS is not a risk for another more serious disease
For moderate symptoms consider...
- Use of a diary, such as IFFGD’s Personal Daily Diary, to help find factors that worsen or bring on symptoms
- Stress management, gut-directed hypnosis, biofeedback, relaxation, or pain management techniques
- Consulting with your physician about the use of drug therapy. This often depends on your dominant bowel symptom
If symptoms are severe, also consider...
- The use and benefits offered by cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Consulting with your doctor about the use of drug therapy for treatment of pain. This may involve a low-dose antidepressant, which acts as a pain reliever.
- Seeking referral to a pain treatment center. These specialty centers are usually connected with universities.
For persons with IBS, effective diagnosis and treatment starts with an understanding of IBS. Work together with your doctor or therapist. Develop your own IBS treatment plan and outcome goals. Working in partnership with a health professional can help achieve the best possible results.
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Participate in IFFGD’s IBS Survey
IFFGD wants to help researchers, clinicians, and regulators understand how IBS affects your daily routine, the ways your life is affected by IBS, and where the needs are for treatments - but we need your help. Will you participate in a confidential online survey, and help advance our mission to improve lives? Go »
Do you want to do more to help fight IBS? Take action. Participate in the IFFGD sponsored, IBS: A Call to Action.
Go to our online Library for:
- Information on IBS treatments and more.
Did you know? Members receive free access to online publications in our online Library. Become a member of IFFGD. Join now.
References
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Chang L, Drossman DA, Norton WF, Barreiro MA, Blackwell B, Wingate D, Whitehead WE, Thompson WG, Olden KW, Harris MS, Norton NJ. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. IFFGD, 2007, N101.
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Chang L. Irritable bowel syndrome. Digestive Health Matters. IFFGD, 2004;V13 N1:4-11.
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Drossman DA. Functional GI Disorders Education Program Guide, IFFGD, 1998.
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Drossman DA, et al, The Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, Degnon Assocs, Third Edition, 2006.