Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS can be a painful and life-changing condition.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) also known as spastic colon, is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. It is estimated that roughly 5 million Canadians suffer from IBS. This chronic condition is one of the most frequent reasons to visit your doctor and can really affect your quality of life. This chronic condition is often painful and can really limit your daily activities.

IBS is a functional motility problem in your intestines. When you suffer from IBS, the colon muscles in your large intestine begin to move and tighten uncontrollably after mild stimulation such as eating foods or taking medication. The irregular movement of food and waste through your bowels can cause several different symptoms, the most common include constipation or diarrhea, often in alternating occurrences.

man holding his belly in pain

Frequently asked questions

WHAT CAUSES IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME?

The exact cause of IBS is unclear. It is believed to be due to several factors, such as abnormal nervous system signals, increased sensitivity to pain, food tolerances, and irregularity of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract motility. The following are risk factors that may cause IBS:

  • Abnormal movements to the colon and small intestines
  • Hypersensitivity to pain from a full bowel or gas
  • Food sensitivities, such as poor absorption of sugars or acids in food
  • Small Intestinal Bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
  • Stress causing a hyperactive nervous system

HOW IS IBS DIFFERENT FROM IBD (INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE)?

Irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are not the same problems with the digestive tract. IBS usually causes no ulcers or lesions in the bowel and it involves the colon. Like most inflammatory cases, IBS does not increase the risk of colon cancer. The presentation of IBS may be different for each person who has it. The symptoms may come and go or for some people, may last for a long period of time.

HOW CAN HONOR WELLNESS HELP?

In our clinic, we use a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of IBS.

Acupuncture – Works by normalizing motility in your gut and regulating neurotransmitters to reduce pain and improve the delivery of highly oxygenated blood flow to your gastrointestinal tract. Acupuncture has been proven to be an effective treatment to activate the parasympathetic system to improve emotional health conditions. Scientists believe acupuncture works by affecting the somatic nervous system, which reduces muscle spasms and improves intestinal motility.

Chinese Herbal Medicine – Our practitioners are highly trained in prescribing herbal medicine. Customized herbal formulas are prescribed specifically to each individual’s underlying pattern to correct imbalances on a systemic level. There is scientific evidence that supports the use of Chinese herbal medicine for reliving painful cramping, abdominal distention, and diarrhea.

IBS can lower your quality of life in many ways. It can affect your digestive health, cause great emotional stress and interfere with your daily activities. At Honor Wellness, our practitioners are fully committed to your care to help you regain your quality of life back. If you or someone you know are struggling with IBS, let us help you.

Contact us today at 604.428-9946 and find out how.

acupuncture

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