IBS is short for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. IBS includes abdominal pain, diarrhea and constipation. These symptoms are commonly experienced by almost everyone at some point and that is why they are sometimes taken for granted even when they frequently occur. But recurring symptoms are not normal and they may signal Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS are treatable especially when signs or symptoms are detected early. The diagnosis conducted at present for IBS is currently based on a pattern of symptoms that are sourced from an established criteria, in combination with a detailed history, a physical examination and tests that rule out other identifiable causes.

Primary care practitioners rather than specialists usually treats most patients for mild IBS symptoms since it does not require frequent doctor visits, and usually patients with mild IBS are still capable of living a normal life complete with their usual day-to-day activities. The treatment for IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome is geared toward education, reassurance and achievement of a healthier lifestyle even if a patient is undergoing medical treatment.

Drug therapy is ideal for patients with mild to severe symptoms which do not respond favorably to physician counseling and even to dietary changes. Nevertheless, new treatments for IBS have been developed and have shown remarkable capabilities in treating multiple symptoms of IBS.

For most IBS patients the start of successful treatment requires effective diagnosis that begins with the recognition of the validity of symptom complaints. A physician or care provider can help a patient to achieve the best possible results for treating IBS. Moreover, patients should have a close relationship with their doctors and must provide all necessary information that will help in the treatment. And once a diagnosis is made it will be easier to develop a treatment plan that will be an effective cure for symptoms of IBS.

The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome varies from person to person that is why it better to provide custom made treatment plan for each patient since various patients respond in a different way to treatments.

For many people, eating a healthy diet and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms of IBS is a good way to start treatment. Registered dieticians may also help in creating appropriate dietary changes and supplements that are geared to encourage healthy bowel movements.

The effectiveness of a treatment regimen will be judged according to how efficient it has been in controlling as well as eliminating the symptoms of IBS. There are various psychological methods that are used to treat IBS symptoms. These methods have been tested complete with formal research studies, biofeedback, cognitive therapy, psychodynamic therapy and hypnosis treatment. However, it is still not clear which among these treatments have been proven the most effective in treating IBS.

The most effective IBS treatment procedure is one that effectively cures symptoms of IBS without the side effects. But, as different patients respond diversely to treatments it can be a case of trail and error to find the one that suits you best.

If you suspect you are suffering with IBS, you should first consult your primary care physician before taking other steps.

Susan Reynolds. To sign up for a Free IBS Newsletter please visit Natural IBS Relief or for more IBS articles click here IBS Articles.