Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is treated through a combination of dietary and lifestyle changes, medications, probiotics, and mental health therapies. There is no one-size-fits-all cure, so finding the right treatment plan often involves trial and error under a doctor's guidance. Changes in diet and lifestyle involve:
- Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms such as high-gas foods, gluten, and certain carbohydrates called FODMAPs.
- Increasing fiber intake gradually if constipation is an issue.
- Drinking plenty of fluids, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
- Eating regular meals and avoiding skipping meals.
Medications depend on the primary symptoms:
- For diarrhea: loperamide, rifaximin (an antibiotic), eluxadoline, or alosetron (for severe cases in women).
- For constipation: fiber supplements, laxatives, lubiprostone, linaclotide, or plecanatide.
- For pain relief: antispasmodics, low-dose antidepressants, and peppermint oil capsules.
Probiotics may help some people with IBS, though research is ongoing. Mental health therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, gut-directed hypnotherapy, and relaxation training can reduce symptoms by managing stress and anxiety. Overall, treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life, and it often requires personalization and patience to identify effective strategies.
