Irritable Bowel Syndrome
What is it?
This syndrome is a very upsetting and common condition. Also know as Spastic Colon. It occurs because the muscles that lie in the gut or intestines don’t function properly causing irritation, spasm and pain. Erratic contractions of the wall of the intestines causes normal peristalsis movement (wave like action that propels food through the digestive system) to become irregular. The illeocaecal valve (valve in the bowels) is also prone to spasmodic attacks. Bowels may not empty properly and faeces can be like rabbit like pellets. In severe cases blood may also be seen in the bowel motion/stool.
What are the symptoms?
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Cramps & Spasms
- Irritation and Inflammation of the intestines
- Low back pain
- Haemorroids
What factors influence it?
There is no known organic reason for this condition but the following can affect it:
- Stress
- Diet
- Lifestyle
- Food intolerances
- Nutritional Deficiencies
What does a consultation involve?
As different people experience different symptoms, which and improve or disprove for various reasons, it is important to do a full consultation on each client. This can take up to an hour and involve Chinese Medicine, incorporating tongue and pulse diagnosis and examining other possibilities such as food intolerances, stress, diet, lifestyle and nutritional deficiencies. For example where there has been a lot of stress over a long period of time the person may be deficient in certain B vitamins. If there has been ongoing diarrhoea then the person may be magnesium and other minerals deficient. Inflammation and irritation in the intestines responds well to specific Chinese Herbs. For low back pain or bowel spasm Acupuncture is useful. For severe constipation it is important that food is chewed well, that sufficient water is being consumed and that regular healthy eating habits are adhered to. A healthy lifestyle is also paramount. This should include enough sleep and regular activity eg; walking. Stress can be another big factor in IBS and it is important to address it. This may involve lifestyle changes, a course of Acupuncture, specific herbs and nutrition, stress management and dietary changes.
Treatment usually involves a combination of Chinese Herbal Medicine, dietary advice and nutritional advice. In some cases acupuncture and lifestyle changes may be required. Where there are food intolerances, a food exclusion diet will be introduced and fully explained. In most cases alternative foods will be suggested and explained. A food exclusion diet may change the client’s nutritional intake and in those cases specific nutritional supplements may be advised.
