Control your IBS with hypnotherapy!
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a group of intestinal symptoms that typically occur together.
Typical IBS symptoms:
- cramping
- abdominal pain
- bloating and gas
- diarrhoea/constipation or both
The symptoms vary in severity and duration from person to person. However, they last at least three months for at least three days per month.
Some people with IBS have minor symptoms, but in certain cases, the symptoms are very significant and disrupt daily life.
IBS diagnosis
Please ask your GP to diagnose IBS, do not diagnose yourself. The GP will consider your diet; they might suggest that you cut out some food groups, they may check your stool sample and run blood tests. It is important to ask for medical advice before coming to therapy.
IBS triggers
For many people, the key to managing IBS symptoms is to avoid triggers. Certain foods, as well as stress and anxiety, can be triggers for IBS symptoms.
The automatic movement of your digestive system is controlled to a great degree by your nervous system. Stress can affect your nerves, making your digestive system over-active. If you have IBS, your colon may be overly responsive to even slight disruption of your digestive system. It is also believed that IBS is affected by the immune system, which is affected by stress.
Hypnotherapy can help to recognise situations that may increase your levels of stress and anxiety. Hypnotherapy can also help to manage your anxiety or stress levels, and then you can gain control over your bowel movements.