IBS Constipation

IBS constipation means irritable bowel syndrome and often remedied with a combination of therapies which include changes in diet, exercise, stress management and medication. Other therapies include relaxation, biofeedback or hypnosis which are all behavioral therapies. IBS constipation symptoms can also include stomachaches, pain and bloating. The goal of treatment for IBS is not only to eradicate its symptoms but also to ease bowel problems.

Changes in diet can help ease IBS constipation symptoms. This means including fiber in the diet since it reduces constipation by softening the stool. Foods which are good sources of fiber are whole-grain bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, beans, dried plums, prune juice, and ground flaxseed. Water also helps in loosening bowels. Foods and drinks to be avoided are coffee, carbonated drinks and alcohol, chips, cookies and white rice because they can slow the passage of bowels.

Laxatives can be effective with occasional constipation but they may not cure IBS constipation symptoms which include stomach aches and bloating. If taken for a long time, laxatives can also be habit-forming and harmful. The FDA has approved the use of Amitiza in treating IBS with constipation in women but not for men because studies have not shown fully if it is effective in men. Common side effects of this drug include nausea, diarrhea and stomach pain. Zelnorm was also used for IBS but it was pulled from the market due to the risks of heart attacks and stokes.

Antidepressants may also be prescribed although it does not mean that the person with IBS is depressed. There are many kinds of antidepressants but the doctor will recommend the one which is suitable pending on whether the person is suffering from constipation-predominant IBS or diarrhea-predominant IBS. Those with constipation-predominant IBS should eat more fiber but the type of fiber is very important. Soluble fiber is good for IBS since it can reduce the symptoms, it can reduce spasms and can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass.

Constipation can be the result of chronic dehydration and many people do not even know that they are dehydrated. To avoid dehydration, a person should drink 8 glasses of water each day. Another cause of chronic constipation is not getting enough exercise. Exercise is very important to health and can also relieve constipation. It is recommended that one should at least get 30 minutes of exercise each day. IBS constipation can therefore be relieved by these natural methods.