Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. While there’s no definitive cure, its symptoms can be effectively managed with the following strategies:

1. Dietary Adjustments:

• Avoid gas-producing foods such as beans, broccoli, and cabbage.

• Reduce intake of fatty, fried, and fast foods.

• Limit caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol.

• Increase soluble fiber gradually.

• Avoid gluten if it triggers symptoms.

2. Lifestyle Improvements:

• Regular exercise helps soothe the colon and improve digestion.

• Manage stress through meditation, yoga, or hobbies.

• Ensure adequate sleep to support gut health.

3. Medications (under doctor supervision):

• Antispasmodics: to relieve abdominal cramps, e.g., hyoscyamine.

• Fiber supplements or laxatives: for constipation, e.g., psyllium husk.

• Anti-diarrheal medications: such as loperamide.

• Low-dose antidepressants: to reduce chronic pain via the gut-brain axis.

• Antibiotics: in select cases to modify gut bacteria, e.g., rifaximin.

4. Alternative Therapies & Psychological Support:

• Herbal teas (peppermint, fennel, anise).

• Probiotics to improve gut flora.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to manage symptom response.

• Hypnotherapy to calm the colon.

Note: Persistent or severe symptoms like weight loss or blood in stool require immediate medical consultation.

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