IBS MythsInterfere With Treatment (NAPSA)—Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a commondisorder, affecting between 10 percent and Whatis IBS? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an 15 percent of the population or more. Despite the vast number of intestinal disorder that causes abdomi- unknown. Perhaps this is why constipation. Bloating and gassiness are also common. people affected by IBS, much about the disorder remains myths and misinformation about IBS are so common. “Myths often discourage those affected by IBS from seekingeffec- tive treatments that may improve their quality of life,” reports Nancy Norton, president and founder of the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD). “It is important that sufferers correctly understand the condition so they can work to minimize the effects of factors that might contribute to symptoms.” Here are three common IBS myths: Myth #1: It’s just stress. Life is full of stressors. These nal pain or discomfort, diarrhea and/or Almost everyone suffers from intestinal symptoms from time to time. However, IBS symptomsreturn again and again, often without warning. @ eating a meal will trigger symp- toms and that few IBS sufferers can control symptoms through dietary changes alone. Myth #3: There must be a cure out there. There are many treatments shown to improve symptoms of IBS; unfortunately, none of them is a cure. Stories of miraculous stressors—whether physical, emo- cures are appealing and abundant, but none of these treatments has held up to medical scrutiny. gut reactions in most people. Stress will not cause a person to seems too goodto betrue. While there is not yet a cure, tional, dietary or hormonal—cause develop IBS, but because the gut is more sensitive in people with IBS, stress of any kind is morelikely to trigger symptoms. Reducing the effects of stress is just one factor to consider whentreating IBS. Myth #2: It must be something I ate. Be skeptical of any claim that symptoms of IBS may still be manageable. Controlling IBS starts with a proper diagnosis, educating yourself about the disorder and working with a doctor to find treatment approaches that are best for you. Treatments range from lifestyle changes to medica- Manysufferers believe that IBS symptoms will disappear when they find a “safe” diet. For some, tions, hypnosis, relaxation exer- symptoms, and for them it makes hold hope for more options in the future. For more information about cises and others. Medical one or more foods clearly trigger researchers are investigating other treatment approaches that sense to adjust their diets. However, it is important to keep in mind that in some cases simply IBS, visit www.aboutibs.org. Note To Editors: April is IBS Awareness Month, information for readersis available from IFFGD.
