"Is there a cure for iritable bowel syndrome?" With 25 to 50 million Americans suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), there are plenty of people asking just this question.

Also known as spastic colon, mucous colitis, irritable colon and nervous stomach, this disease has no cure, and is the main culprit for visits to the gastroenterologist. Before we discuss the many prevention and treatment options for iritable bowel syndrome, let's go over its symptoms:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Heartburn more than once per month

Irritable bowel syndrome is classified as a functional disease of the bowel, or intestines, because it limits the ability of the gastrointestinal organs to function correctly. This disease affects men and women of all ages and races, and cannot be diagnosed through x-ray or blood tests. In addition to being painful and uncomfortable, untreated IBS can have serious health ramifications, including weight problems and decreased health of skin and hair.

A multi-faceted approach can often work to significantly prevent the symptoms of iritable bowel syndrome:

• Diet - Ingredients that trigger IBS symptoms include dietary fats, lactose (milk sugar), gluten (a protein found in wheat and other grains), fructose (common sweetener in processed foods), chocolate, caffeine, and carbonation in drinks. Each person should identify his/her triggers and try to eliminate them. For some people, a gradual increase of soluble fiber in the diet may ease symptoms, as well as eating several small meals throughout the day and drinking plenty of water.



• Stress - Stress has been shown to be a major trigger for irritable bowel syndrome. Reducing anxiety levels and stressful situations is often an important key to preventing iritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Some patients try exercise, meditation or counseling as ways to channel and reduce stress.



• Smoking - Quitting smoking has also been shown to prevent IBS symptoms.

• Drug Therapy - Some treatment plans involve the combination of several drugs to treat each specific symptom. However, with each additional prescription, the chance for side effects increases. For example, antispasmodics may be prescribed to relax the colon, and antidepressants for reducing pain. These medications can contribute to constipation, requiring even more medications to relax the bladder and intestines, which, in turn, may be habit-forming.



• Specific IBS Medications - There are a few medications approved specifically to treat irritable bowel syndrome. Alosetron hydrochloride, however, must be used with extreme caution because it can cause severe constipation, and Tegaserod maleate may only be used short-term.



• Fiber/Laxatives- Both laxatives and fiber supplements (including Lomotil and Ioperamide) may be successful in easing constipation; however, these treatments may also be habit-forming and can increase abdominal bloating and gas.



• Natural Treatments - Many people are turning to natural treatments. Just as effective as prescriptions, all-natural remedies do not cause side effects.



• Counseling - Especially for severe symptoms, behavioral therapy may help ease iritable bowel syndrome.

Though many people successfully treat iritable bowel syndrome with natural and over-the-counter products, you should see a doctor if your IBS symptoms do not ease or if they become severe. Additionally, if stress and anxiety are major symptom triggers, a behavioral health specialist, counselor, or psychiatrist may be necessary.