FAQ Question:
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
FAQ Answer:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is the most common bowel problem that doctors see. It covers a wide variety of bowel symptoms. IBS affects at least a third of the population at some time in their life, even if only mildly. Symptoms include abdominal pain that is relieved by opening the bowels and is associated with a change in frequency or consistency of the stools. Many sufferers also suffer from constipation, diarrhoea, excess wind and bloating.
IBS is not a diagnosis you should make yourself - if you think you may have a bowel problem, it is important that you see your doctor. If your doctor has diagnosed IBS you can help to relieve symptoms with products such as peppermint oil capsules, Aloe Vera products, colloidal silicic acid, ginger, Acidophlus supplements and alverine citrate - a drug that relieves intestinal spasms.
Following a high fibre diet helps around a third of IBS sufferers but may make bloating and distension worse during the first 2-3 weeks. If bran doesn't suit you, try other forms of fibre such as ispaghula, psylium or sterculia.
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