No quick fix, but a tailor-made approach
There is no medicine that cures IBS. What does exist is a series of treatment options that make the symptoms manageable for many people, from nutrition to psychological guidance. Which combination works varies greatly per person.
What a treatment program could look like
Lifestyle and fibres
Regular eating and exercise, and soluble fibers such as psyllium seeds, are usually the first step. A gluten-free diet is not recommended as standard.
Medication tailored to the type
For IBS-C: laxatives such as macrogol. For IBS-D: loperamide. For prominent pain: paracetamol or gastro-resistant peppermint oil. The effectiveness varies greatly per person.
The low-FODMAP diet, under supervision
If the first steps have insufficient effect, a dietitian can supervise a temporary elimination diet: avoidance of FODMAP-rich products for a few weeks, followed by controlled reintroduction.
Psychological treatment
Hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy has been proven to be effective in reducing intestinal symptoms, via the intestinal-brain axis. The choice depends on the motivation and preference of the patient.
Antidepressants for persistent pain
Sometimes prescribed because of their effect on pain perception and possible psychological symptoms, not because IBS is a psychological condition.
What you can ask yourself
Describe your symptoms in concrete terms
For a few weeks, make a note of how often you have pain, what your bowel movements look like and what preceded them. That makes the conversation with your GP a lot more concrete.
Ask specifically about the FODMAP diet
Ask for a referral to a dietitian with IBS experience instead of trying the diet on your own.
Also ask about psychological options
Hypnotherapy and CBT are not always successful. offered themselves, while they are proven effective treatments.
Seek free support if you get stuck
If you cannot find a solution with care, an independent client support worker can you think along. That's free.
🏎 Need immediate help?
In case of immediate danger to yourself or someone else: call 112. Are you in distress or are you thinking about suicide? You can call or chat with 113 Suicide Prevention day and night via 0800-0113. Zorgfuik is not a crisis service and cannot solve acute requests for help, but we think it is important that you know where you can go.