DEAR DR. GOTT:
My husband has been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome by his physician. He’s extremely uncomfortable and isn’t getting a lot of relief. What are his options?
DEAR READER:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder of the large and small intestines. It affects up to 15% of North Americans, with a predominance in females. Symptoms include gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or a combination thereof. It can appear at any age, but is often found in younger individuals. Previous studies indicated IBS was caused by stress, but the condition is now thought to be a malfunction of the movement of the colon. Whatever the cause, it is uncomfortable for those who suffer from the condition.
For starters, your husband might modify his diet. It should include high fiber foods such as bran, whole grain bread, beans, fruits and vegetables. Remember to add the fiber gradually, since a major change to the dietary intake can cause gas that, in turn, will trigger symptoms — the very thing he wants to avoid.
Perhaps he already knows what brings on an attack, but generally speaking he should avoid fried foods, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate and some dairy products. If he is unaware what initiates symptoms, he might keep a diary of what he eats (and when) so when symptoms occur he can narrow down the list to certain foods which trigger an attack. If he takes the list of trigger foods to his physician, they can work out a diet together. In any event, his meals should not be large. He might consider four or five smaller meals throughout the day.
While I indicated stress was previously thought to be the cause of IBS but later found not to be, it can trigger an attack. He should find ways to reduce his stress level as an additional means of control.
Between diet modification, a reduction in stress levels and medication (such as over-the-counter Digestive Advantage IBS or prescription), if appropriate, he should be on the road to recovery.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report, “Irritable Bowel Syndrome”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 176, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
About Dr. Gott