by John Howard

Thousands of people around the world suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. Though there is no specific general cure that is available for IBS, there are several IBS treatment options that are available, which can provide relief from the symptoms. A combination of different types of treatment is actually the best option for relief from IBS symptoms. The combination includes change in diet, proper medication and management of stress.

If someone suffering from IBS has the problem of constipation, doctors would usually suggest a diet that is rich in fiber. Similarly if someone is having diarrhea, they would suggest a diet that is somewhat lower in fiber content. Apart from diet, doctors also prescribe proper medication as part of IBS treatment.

Emotional stress and other mental symptoms are treated using different types of antidepressant drugs. In many cases IBS treatment also involves cognitive behavioral therapy. This type of treatment that involves different types of methods clubbed together is the best possible way to go about in order to get relief from the symptoms of IBS.

One also needs to make certain dietary changes as part of IBS treatment. This involves avoiding certain food items including caffeine, fructose, spices, beans, wheat and alcohol. These are some of the food items that are known to trigger the symptoms of IBS. This is not a comprehensive list -- there are many other food items that may trigger the symptoms. It is up to you to identify the particular food items that trigger the symptoms in you.