How is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treated? IBS is not thoroughly understood, so there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. Several effective types of treatment may be tailored to each patient.
Relaxation techniques
In many cases stress, anxiety, and depression are triggers for IBS, and stress reduction can ease symptoms. Taking a class in dance or crafts, getting active in yoga or other exercises, becoming involved in community projects or just getting out and walking in the sunshine call all be stress reducers.
Healthy diet
A diet full of high-fiber, high-nutrient and low-fat foods, such as fruits and veggies, can help ease the abdomen. Avoid highly processed foods with white sugar as well as fried foods.
Medications that may be effective in treating IBS
- Guar gum is used to give ice cream its desired texture, and can be bought over the counter. It helps soften hard stools and bind diarrhea.
- Virberzi (eluxadoline) is prescribed for diarrhea-predominant IBS
- Xifaxan (rifaximin) is prescribed for diarrhea-predominant IBS
- Amitiza (lubiprostone) is prescribed for IBS with constipation-predominant IBS
- Linzess (linaclotide) is prescribed for constipation-predominant IBS
Obtaining medicationsSome of these medications are prescription drugs and can only be obtained with the prescription of a physician or other licensed prescriber. QuickMD can prescribe the above medications online—whenever medically indicated.