| Irritable Bowel
Syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the gut. A functional
disorder means there’s a problem with the function of
a particular part of the body, even though the structure appears
normal.
With IBS, an individual’s bowel is extra
sensitive and the nerves and muscles do not work as they should.
The condition causes re-occurring pain or discomfort in the
abdomen and an altered bowel habit.
Most people suffering from IBS find their
symptoms an occasional nuisance, however for other people
the condition can seriously affect their quality of life.
IBS can develop at any time, however most
people have their first symptoms between the ages of 15 and
40. According to some research, IBS can affect up to 1 in
5 people in the UK at some stage in their life, making it
one of the most common disorders of the digestive system.
Women are more likely than men to suffer with
IBS, and their symptoms are often more severe. Some individuals
with IBS have constipation, others have diarrhoea, whilst
others may suffer from both. Pain may be mild to severe and
may occur at a particular time of the day.
Symptoms
* Pain and discomfort in the abdomen
* Bloated abdomen
* Gas
* Indigestion
* Feeling full
* Nausea
* Diarrhoea
* Constipation
* Cramping
* Heartburn
* Muscle pains
Cause
The exact cause of IBS is not clear. Some
research suggests it may be due to over-activity of parts
of the gut, for example if the contractions of the muscles
in the wall of the gut become abnormal or overactive. Increased
sensitivity to the amount of gas in the bowel and an individual’s
genetic make-up are also thought to play a role in the development
of IBS.
Symptoms may be worse after eating or if an
individual is suffering from stress and specific foods may
also trigger the symptoms.
Treatment
As IBS is regarded as a medical condition,
it’s important to consult your doctor first for information,
advice and a diagnosis. Although there is no cure for IBS,
there are things that can help.
Hypnotherapy can help an individual to learn
relaxation techniques and new ways to manage stress. As our
state of mind can have an impact on our physical well-being,
the tension, stress and anxiety that living with IBS can cause,
may undermine our immune system and actually further compromise
our health.
Therefore learning how to relax and manage
stress become useful tools. Hypnosis can also promote positive
thinking and coping strategies by accessing our unconscious
mind in a deep state of relaxation.
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