Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a widespread condition affecting numerous people. It is a chronic condition that can cause recurring symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. It is not a curable condition, but different treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms. One commonly asked question is whether IBS will go away on its own. In this blog post, we aim to answer this question and provide insight on the condition.
To answer the question, unfortunately, IBS does not go away on its own. It is a long-lasting condition that requires attention and care. The symptoms of IBS may fluctuate and vary over time, but the condition itself remains. There are a few factors related to IBS that can influence the symptom severity. These include lifestyle habits such as diet, stress, and physical activity. Therefore, proper management of IBS symptoms is crucial to prevent further complications.
The first step to take when managing IBS symptoms is to seek professional help. Consulting with a registered dietitian or a qualified naturopathic doctor is recommended. They will help identify the symptom triggers and guide you through the necessary changes in your lifestyle like providing an IBS diet plan, managing stress etc. This may also include medication and other treatments depending on the symptom severity.
Diet is crucial when managing IBS symptoms. It is essential to identify the kind of food that triggers symptoms and avoid them. It’s suggested that a low-FODMAP diet is useful in reducing IBS symptoms. A low FODMAP diet includes reducing and eliminating certain types of fermentable carbohydrates which are common triggers for symptoms like bloating, diarrhea and pain. Consulting a dietitian to analyze your diet and tailor-make an appropriate IBS meal plan that is suitable for your specific requirements is important.
Stress management is another essential step when managing IBS. Yoga and meditation classes, physiotherapy, and counseling are effective in managing stress and IBS symptoms. Physical activity is vital in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it is essential to keep in mind that overexertion can also be a trigger. Therefore, the type of physical activates is crucial to consider.
In conclusion, IBS is a chronic condition that does not go away on its own. However, while IBS can be hard to heal, managing the symptoms can provide significant relief and improve one’s quality of life. Consulting with a registered dietitian or a qualified naturopathic doctor to identify the triggers and the appropriate management strategies is the first step. Lifestyle changes such as stress management, exercise, and diet are important factors that should be considered. Finally, it’s recommended and vital to maintain a positive attitude and a healthy lifestyle to improve IBS symptoms.
If you have any questions or would like to explore naturopathic medicine further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Michael Torreiter, ND, CFMP, or another Waterloo Naturopathic Doctor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
