WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as spastic colon or
mucous colitis, is a problem that keeps stool from moving
through the bowel (intestine) normally. The stool may move too
slowly or too fast.
Causes
Not known for sure. The problem
may occur because of stress, anxiety, or depression, or may be
brought on by eating. However, it may not be possible to find
out which food is the cause.
Signs/Symptoms
Often, the chief symptom is
cramp-like pain that may go away when you move your bowels, or
diarrhea that starts without warning. You also may not be able
to move your bowels, or have pain when you do because the stool
is hard and dry. Other symptoms include: headache, backache, or
feeling sick to your stomach. You may not want to eat and may
lose weight. You may feel tired, depressed, or anxious, or find
it hard to think.
Care
May include tests to study your
stool, an x-ray of your intestines, and an examination of your
rectum. Medicines may be given to reduce any cramping you may
feel or to relieve anxiety, gas, diarrhea, or
constipation.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications
to control your symptoms:
-
A stool softener to make the stool easier to pass,
or--
-
Antidiarrhea medicine if the problem takes this
form.
-
Try to identify any foods that may cause flare-ups
and avoid eating them. You may find it helpful to keep a
diary of everything you eat and drink.
-
Increasing fiber in your diet may help relieve
symptoms. Good choices are whole grain breads, oatmeal or
bran cereals, and fresh vegetables and
fruits.
-
Get plenty of rest.
-
Try to reduce the amount of stress in your daily
life. Take a short time-out period from stressful
situations that occur during the day. Close your eyes and
breathe deeply. Tense the muscles of your face, hold for a
few seconds, then relax. Repeat this procedure with the
muscles in your neck, shoulders, hands, stomach, back, and
legs.
-
Exercise at least 3 times a
week.
-
Don't smoke or use drugs or alcohol to relieve
stress.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You have a high temperature.
-
Your stool is black or contains blood or
mucus.
-
You lose 5 or more pounds without
dieting.
-
Your symptoms don't improve despite
treatment.
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