I have been suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome for the last 5 to 6 years with heaviness in my lower abdomen, poor digestion, abdominal pain, and alternating loose motions and constipation. What treatment may help manage these symptoms?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome can, over many years,, cause heaviness in the lower abdomen, poor digestion, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and alternating constipation and loose motions because the intestine becomes overly sensitive and irregular in movement. Stress, anxiety, irregular meals, spicy foods, poor sleep, and certain trigger foods often worsen symptoms over time. Treatment usually focuses on improving digestion, reducing abdominal discomfort, and regulating bowel movement. Depending on the symptoms, probiotics, antispasmodic medicines, fibre supplements, or medicines for constipation and diarrhoea may help improve symptom control. Eating meals on time, drinking enough water, regular walking, stress reduction, and avoiding oily or very spicy foods may also help stabilise bowel function gradually. Some people benefit from identifying and avoiding personal food triggers such as excess tea, coffee, milk products, or heavy meals. Consult your doctor if you develop blood in your stool, fever, significant weight loss, severe abdominal pain, or worsening bowel symptoms, so the treatment plan can be reviewed.
