What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain?

What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain
Medications specifically for IBS – Medications approved for certain people with IBS include:

Alosetron (Lotronex). Alosetron is designed to relax the colon and slow the movement of waste through the lower bowel. It can be prescribed only by providers enrolled in a special program. Alosetron is intended only for severe cases of diarrhea-predominant IBS in women who haven’t responded to other treatments. It is not approved for use by men. Alosetron has been linked to rare but important side effects, so it should only be considered when other treatments aren’t successful. Eluxadoline (Viberzi). Eluxadoline can ease diarrhea by reducing muscle contractions and fluid secretion in the intestine. It also helps increase muscle tone in the rectum. Side effects can include nausea, abdominal pain and mild constipation. Eluxadoline has also been associated with pancreatitis, which can be serious and more common in certain individuals. Rifaximin (Xifaxan). This antibiotic can decrease bacterial overgrowth and diarrhea. Lubiprostone (Amitiza). Lubiprostone can increase fluid secretion in your small intestine to help with the passage of stool. It’s approved for women who have IBS with constipation, and is generally prescribed only for women with severe symptoms that haven’t responded to other treatments. Linaclotide (Linzess). Linaclotide also can increase fluid secretion in your small intestine to help you pass stool. Linaclotide can cause diarrhea, but taking the medication 30 to 60 minutes before eating might help.

Contents

What can I take for stomach pain due to IBS?

If your abdominal pain feels more like trapped gas than cramping, you may find relief by taking a product containing simethicone, a medication that makes gas easier to pass.

What painkiller is best for IBS?

Abstract – Context: Visceral pain is a leading symptom for patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that affects 10% – 20 % of the world population. Conventional pharmacological treatments to manage IBS-related visceral pain is unsatisfactory. Recently, medications have emerged to treat IBS patients by targeting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and peripheral nerves to alleviate visceral pain while avoiding adverse effects on the central nervous system (CNS).

  • Several investigational drugs for IBS also target the periphery with minimal CNS effects.
  • Evidence of acquisition: In this paper, reputable internet databases from 1960 – 2016 were searched including Pubmed and ClinicalTrials.org, and 97 original articles analyzed.
  • Search was performed based on the following keywords and combinations: irritable bowel syndrome, clinical trial, pain, visceral pain, narcotics, opioid, chloride channel, neuropathy, primary afferent, intestine, microbiota, gut barrier, inflammation, diarrhea, constipation, serotonin, visceral hypersensitivity, nociceptor, sensitization, hyperalgesia.

Results: Certain conventional pain managing drugs do not effectively improve IBS symptoms, including NSAIDs, acetaminophen, aspirin, and various narcotics. Anxiolytic and antidepressant drugs (Benzodiazepines, TCAs, SSRI and SNRI) can attenuate pain in IBS patients with relevant comorbidities.

Clonidine, gabapentin and pregabalin can moderately improve IBS symptoms. Lubiprostone relieves constipation predominant IBS (IBS-C) while loperamide improves diarrhea predominant IBS (IBS-D). Alosetron, granisetron and ondansetron can generally treat pain in IBS-D patients, of which alosetron needs to be used with caution due to cardiovascular toxicity.

The optimal drugs for managing pain in IBS-D and IBS-C appear to be eluxadoline and linaclotide, respectively, both of which target peripheral GI tract. Conclusions: Conventional pain managing drugs are in general not suitable for treating IBS pain. Medications that target the GI tract and peripheral nerves have better therapeutic profiles by limiting adverse CNS effects.

Can you take anything for IBS pain?

Anti-cramping medications – People whose main IBS symptom is cramping often use anti-cramping medications. These medications are meant to relieve the pain by relaxing the muscles of the intestine. Research suggests that four anti-cramping medications may help: butylscopolamine, cimetropium, pinaverium and otilonium.

  • Butylscopolamine is the only one of these that is available in Germany.
  • You can buy it at pharmacies, without a prescription.
  • One study found that this drug relieved IBS symptoms in some people.
  • Another anti-cramping drug, known as mebeverine, is often prescribed in Germany.
  • But there isn’t enough research to be able to say whether it helps.

The possible side effects of anti-cramping medications include a dry mouth, dizziness and blurred vision. About 5 out of 100 people in studies had these types of side effects.

What triggers IBS pain?

Triggers – Symptoms of IBS can be triggered by:

  • Food. The role of food allergy or intolerance in IBS isn’t fully understood. A true food allergy rarely causes IBS, But many people have worse IBS symptoms when they eat or drink certain foods or beverages. These include wheat, dairy products, citrus fruits, beans, cabbage, milk and carbonated drinks.
  • Stress. Most people with IBS experience worse or more-frequent symptoms during periods of increased stress. But while stress may make symptoms worse, it doesn’t cause them.

What causes IBS to be so painful?

How does IBS affect my body? – In people with IBS, the colon muscle tends to contract more than in people without the condition. These contractions cause cramps and pain. People with IBS also tend to have a lower pain tolerance. Research has also suggested that people with IBS may have excess bacteria in the GI tract, contributing to symptoms.

Why are IBS attacks so painful?

Summary – IBS pain varies from one person to the next. Long-term pain is caused by over-active nerve receptors sending pain messages from your intestines to your brain—even when your body is just carrying out its normal digestive activities. Over time, the brain becomes very sensitive to these pain signals.

Is there an over the counter drug for IBS?

The following medications may be recommended or prescribed to treat IBS-D: OTC fiber supplements, such as Metamucil and FiberCon. OTC loperamide (Imodium A-D) Eluxadoline (Viberzi)

What is the first line treatment for IBS?

5-HT3 RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS – Antagonism of serotonin receptor subtype 5-hydroxy-tryptamine-3 (5-HT 3 ) reduces noxious stimuli perception, increases colonic compliance, and decreases gastrocolonic reflexes. Alosetron (Lotronex), the first IBS-specific medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is a highly selective central penetrating 5-HT 3 antagonist. Alosetron did show a clinically significant, although modest, gain over placebo (41 versus 26 percent) in alleviating IBS symptoms such as bloating and pain.20 Initially, alosetron was removed from the market after being linked to ischemic colitis and the deaths of five women. It became available again in late 2002, but with strict prescribing regulations. Alosetron is indicated only for women with severe diarrhea-predominant symptoms and for whom conventional treatment has failed. Constipation may result from its use. Stimulation of the serotonin receptor subtype 5-hydroxy-tryptamine-4 (5-HT 4 ) increases colonic transit time and inhibits visceral sensitivity. Tegaserod (Zelnorm), a partial 5-HT 4 receptor agonist, is an aminoguanidine indole similar to serotonin. Tegaserod stimulates the release of neurotransmitters and increases colonic motility; it is more effective than placebo in constipation-predominant IBS.21 However, a systematic review 22 showed that global benefits are small, with an NNT of 17. Tegaserod is approved for up to 12 weeks of use for treatment of constipation-predominant IBS in women.23 The long-term safety of tegaserod has not been established, and post-marketing reports of tegaserod causingischemic colitis and diarrhea resulting in hypovolemia and syncope prompted an FDA advisory in April 2004.24 In summary, tegaserod improves global symptoms of IBS in women, but the benefits are small; further studies are needed to clarify any long-term adverse effects.22 There are a variety of other agents with reported advantages in treating IBS symptoms. Antibiotics may be recommended for the treatment of refractory diarrhea if bacterial infection is suspected.12 However, antibiotics should not be used routinely for treatment of IBS. Antibiotics are not indicated for long-term use because they may increase diarrhea through changes in the bowel flora. Probiotics consist of a preparation containing a single- or mixed-culture of live microbes that exert beneficial health effects by altering the gastrointestinal flora.6 Probiotics are presumed to restore normal bowel flora. Studies with probiotics demonstrate a trend toward improvement of IBS symptoms and are promising enough to warrant further investigation.25 Cisapride (Propulsid), a promotility agent, has been studied for treatment of IBS, but its use was not supported in a recent systematic literature review.12 Cisapride was removed from the market and is only available for compassionate use in the United States. The alpha adrenoceptor antagonist clonidine (Catapres) has been shown in a single small study 26 to provide overall relief at a dosage of 0.1 mg twice a day when compared with placebo (67 versus 46 percent). Given the absence of a cure and the adverse effects of medications, patients with IBS often turn to complementary therapies. Peppermint possesses antispasmodic properties and has long been associated with improvement of digestive function. Peppermint leaves contain oils that have mild anesthetic properties, relieve nausea, and relax smooth muscle spasticity caused by histamine and cholinergic stimulation.27 A systematic review 27 identified five trials that showed that peppermint oil relieved IBS symptoms. Three of these trials showed statistically significant benefit of peppermint over placebo ( P <,001). The placebo response ranged from 13 to 52 percent with a mean of 31 percent including all five trials.27 A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study 28 of enteric-coated peppermint oil involving 110 patients showed 79 percent with less pain, 83 percent with decreased stool frequency, and 79 percent with less flatulence. Peppermint is contraindicated in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. The herb ginger also may play a role in IBS treatment. One component, gingerois, functions as a serotonin 5-HT antagonist and enhances motility.29 Aloe vera has been recommended for constipation-dominant IBS, 30 and fennel has been recommended for IBS-related bloating. None of these agents has been studied in any clinical trials measuring patient-oriented outcomes. Given the variability of IBS, the most successful treatment will be comprehensive, involving multiple strategies ( Figure 1 1 ), Patients should be allowed to participate actively in their care, and therapies should focus on particular types of gastrointestinal dysfunction.1 Initial treatment should include education, reassurance, stress management, and relaxation techniques. Further treatments are based on the type and severity of symptoms. Constipation-predominant IBS with mild symptoms may benefit from additional fluids, guar gum, exercise, and fiber. For constipation-predominant IBS with moderate symptoms, an antispasmodic, peppermint oil, or osmotic laxative may be appropriate. In severe cases, the aforementioned may be supplemented with tricyclic antidepressants, psychotherapy, and consideration of serotonin 5-HT 4 -agonist. For diarrhea-predominant IBS, begin with dietary changes and add an antispasmodic, loperamide, or peppermint oil if symptoms are moderate. In severe diarrhea-predominant IBS, consider tricyclic antidepressants, therapy, and a serotonin 5-HT 3 antagonist. In pain-predominant IBS, use an antispasmodic; a tricyclic antidepressant; and, if severe with diarrhea, consider a serotonin 5-HT 3 agonist.

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How long does IBS flare up last?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the digestive system.It causes symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. These tend to come and go over time, and can last for days, weeks or months at a time.It’s usually a lifelong problem. It can be very frustrating to live with and can have a big impact on your everyday life.There’s no cure, but diet changes and medicines can often help control the symptoms.The exact cause is unknown – it’s been linked to things like food passing through your gut too quickly or too slowly, oversensitive nerves in your gut, stress and a family history of IBS.

Page last reviewed: 24 February 2021 Next review due: 24 February 2024 : Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

What calms IBS down?

The Wrap Up – An IBS flare-up can be frustrating and may cause a range of digestive symptoms. If you’re experiencing a flare, there are several at-home remedies you can try, such as gut-directed hypnotherapy, removing high-FODMAP foods from your diet, heat therapy, avoiding caffeine, exercising, and reducing stress.

Where is IBS pain located?

The standard general definition for pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience that’s associated with actual or perceived damage to the body. – Pain is the dominant symptom experienced by patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), so it’s no wonder people want to learn more about managing pain.3 out of 4 people with IBS report continuous or frequent abdominal pain, with pain being the primary factor that makes their IBS severe.

  • Importantly, and unlike chronic pain in general, IBS pain is often associated with alterations in bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation, or both).
  • The chronic pain (pain lasting 6 months or longer) in IBS can be felt anywhere in the abdomen (belly), though is most often reported in the lower abdomen.

It may be worsened soon after eating, and relieved or at times worsened after a bowel movement. It is not always predictable and may change over time. People with IBS typically describe their abdominal pain as

  • cramping,
  • stabbing,
  • aching,
  • sharp,
  • or throbbing.

IBS is a long-term condition that is challenging both to patients and healthcare providers. It affects 5-10% of individuals worldwide. Less than half of those see a healthcare provider for their symptoms. Yet patients with IBS consume more overall health care than those without IBS. The primary reason people with IBS see a clinician is for relief of abdominal pain.

What IBS pain feels like?

A Visual Guide to Irritable Bowel Syndrome Medically Reviewed by on June 25, 2022 What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain Many people have digestive troubles once in a while. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is different, though. What sets it apart is belly pain and diarrhea or constipation that comes back again and again. But there are no signs of damage in the gastrointestinal (GI) system. And it doesn’t make you more likely to get colon cancer. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain The main symptoms of IBS are belly pain along with a change in bowel habits. This can include constipation, diarrhea, or both. You may get cramps in your belly or feel like your bowel movement isn’t finished. Many people who have it feel gassy and notice that their abdomen is bloated. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain Doctors don’t know yet. One theory is that the signals between the brain and intestines get disrupted. This miscommunication may trigger contractions in the intestinal muscles (seen on the right) that result in cramping, pain, and changes in the speed of digestion. Or it may be that the intestinal nerves are extra-sensitive to certain triggers, such as some foods or stress. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain Anyone can get irritable bowel syndrome, but the condition is twice as common in women as in men. It’s also more likely to affect people who have a family history of IBS. Symptoms usually start before you’re 35 years old. It’s uncommon for people over 50 to get IBS for the first time. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain There is no single test to check for IBS. Doctors usually make a diagnosis based on a person’s description of the symptoms. When you tell your doctor what’s going on, be specific with them and don’t be shy about it. They may order tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain It’s uncomfortable, and it can make you feel anxious about being able to get to a bathroom on time, or nervous about having symptoms strike at a bad time, like when you’re commuting, at work, or in any situation where it’s hard to leave. You may find that it helps to map out bathrooms before going anyplace new. In severe cases, people feel hesitant to eat out, see a movie, or socialize. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain Everyone gets nervous – like when you have an exam, or have to give a presentation, or are under pressure. For people with IBS, that may trigger or worsen their symptoms. So, it’s very important to take charge of your stress. It can also be a good idea to work with a counselor to learn helpful ways to respond to stressful situations. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain The first step toward managing IBS is to figure out what makes your symptoms worse. Besides stress, common triggers include eating a meal, hormonal changes, and certain medications. It’s important to note that no specific foods are linked to IBS symptoms for everyone. Each person is different. So, write down what you eat in a “food diary” to help you pinpoint which foods are a problem for you. What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain Your treatment plan will depend on your specific symptoms and triggers, but many people start with diet changes. It may help to eat smaller meals and foods that are lower in fat. Fiber is good if your IBS includes constipation. You may want to avoid alcohol or caffeine, and foods that make you gassy (such as beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage). What To Take For Ibs Stomach Pain These “good” bacteria live in your gut. There are many kinds of probiotics, and the best known is the type found in yogurt – look for a label that says “active cultures.” Some studies show that certain probiotics – Bifidobacteria and some probiotic combinations – may help with IBS symptoms.

Even though you may not feel like exercising, especially when your symptoms flare up, it’s still good for you. Physical activity can help with digestion, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Go for low-impact activities at first that won’t jar the digestive tract, and use the bathroom before you start.

If diarrhea is one of your IBS symptoms, there are medicines to help. They include loperamide (Imodium) which slows the motion in the intestines. Your doctor may also consider prescription drugs like eluxadoline (Viberzi), or an antibiotic called rifaximin (Xifaxan), or “bile acid sequestrants” (such as cholestyramine, colesevelam, and colestipol) for more help.

  1. Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter medicine that softens stool so it’s easier to pass (like docusate), a fiber supplement (such as methylcellulose or psyllium), or polyethylene glycol (PEG).
  2. If other options don’t work, the drugs linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone (Amitiza) boost the amount of fluid in your intestines.
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If a doctor prescribes antidepressants for IBS, that doesn’t suggest your symptoms are “all in your head” or caused by depression. Antidepressants act on the chemical messengers in the digestive tract and can ward off pain and cramping. Antispasmodics may also be useful if cramping is a major symptom.

Most medications have side effects, so discuss the pros and cons with your doctor. It’s worth a try if you prefer a natural remedy. Some studies suggest it may ease IBS symptoms. Look for enteric-coated capsules, which are less likely to cause heartburn – and check with your doctor first if you take other medications.

If IBS gets to you – like, if you start to feel down about it or avoid social situations because of it – you might find it helpful to talk with a counselor, at least a few times. They can help you with the stress of the condition and teach you new ways to manage your triggers and flare-ups.

An expert will guide you through this technique, helping you learn how to relax your colon’s muscles. It may help with IBS symptoms. Doctors call this “gut-directed hypnotherapy.” Some studies back it up, but the research isn’t complete yet. This can teach you to recognize and change your body’s response to stress.

It might help you learn to relax certain muscles in your pelvic “floor” when you have a bowel movement, if your IBS constipation happens because you squeeze those muscles without realizing it. Consider trying meditation, deep breathing, or other relaxation techniques.

  1. There’s not a lot of research on the topic, but if it helps you manage stress, it’s a good idea to give it a shot and see how you do.
  2. Irritable bowel syndrome is an ongoing (chronic) condition.
  3. Your symptoms may calm down for periods of time and then flare up.
  4. Eep a personal diary of food, feelings, and symptoms – that can help you uncover hidden triggers when you’re first diagnosed, and if IBS begins to interfere with your daily life again.

Over time, the symptoms typically do not get worse. IBS is not life-threatening and does not lead to more serious conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or cancer. : A Visual Guide to Irritable Bowel Syndrome

How do doctors test for IBS?

Tests for IBS – There’s no test for IBS, but you might need some tests to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. The GP may arrange:

a blood test to check for problems like coeliac disease tests on a sample of your poo to check for infections and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

You will not usually need further tests in hospital unless the GP is not sure what the problem is.

What do most doctors prescribe for IBS?

Types of Antidepressants/Neuromodulators – Antidepressants are neuromodulators that have the ability to impact nerve signaling. Communication between the GI tract and the brain and spinal cord is specifically affected. This nerve signaling is regulated by chemicals called neurotransmitters.

These chemicals are released from nerves and bind to other nerves, muscles, and glands. The result impacts pain signaling and can potentially increase or decrease GI function. These drugs often affect GI symptoms at lower dosages than used to treat depression or anxiety. Multiple classes of neuromodulators exist.

Emergency IBS Treatment for Flare-Ups to RELIEVE BLOATING, Abdominal PAIN and PELVIC FLOOR Problems

The ones most commonly used to treat IBS symptoms include the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). There is some agreement across international guidelines that TCAs are effective for treating IBS; however, recommendations for using SSRIs remain conflicted.

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Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) – There are multiple TCAs available. Those most commonly used include amitriptyline (Elavil ® ), nortriptyline (Pamelor ® ), imipramine (Tofranil ® ) and desipramine (Norpramin ® ). The choice in many instances is based on healthcare provider preference and possible side effects.

The most commonly seen side effects include drowsiness and dry mouth. Dry eyes, blurred vision, urinary retention and constipation may also occur. Urinary retention refers to an inability to empty bladder well. People diagnosed with certain conditions should likely consider other treatment options. These include symptomatic enlarged prostates (prostatic hypertrophy), bladder control problems (neurogenic bladder), narrow-angle glaucoma, and dementia. Elderly patients may develop confusion or loss of balance, especially at higher doses. It is common to start with a low daily dose of the drug (e.g., 10 or 25 mg) and to take it before bedtime. This will help to avoid or reduce many of the more common undesirable side effects. The dose can then be increased based upon how well it works (effectiveness) and how hard the side effects are to handle (tolerance). Most healthcare providers will not prescribe dosages higher than 50-100 mg per day.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) – The most well studied SSRI drugs include citalopram (Celexa ® ), fluoxetine (Prozac ® ) and Paroxetine (Paxil ® ). Some healthcare providers also like to use sertraline (Zoloft ® ) given its anti-anxiety properties.

Common side effects of SSRIs include drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, headaches, blurred vision, and/or reduced sexual desire.

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Will ibuprofen help with IBS pain?

Treatment of IBS – Although there is no simple cure for IBS, there are treatments that can help reduce the symptoms. These include changes to your lifestyle, medicines and psychological treatments. With the help of your GP, you can decide which is most suited to you.

Because IBS is a syndrome and not a disease, it cannot be cured. But once you know your own personal triggers – whether it be foods, components in foods or stress ¬– there are things you can do to take control and ease your symptoms. Diet advice For most people with IBS, a healthy lifestyle is the best way to improve symptoms.

The following general advice about diet may help.

Eat regular meals and snacks. Drink plenty of water or non-caffeinated fluids. Limit soft drinks as well as caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee and energy drinks. Limit alcohol to no more than two standard drinks per day, with at least two alcohol-free days per week. Limit intake of spicy, rich and fatty foods.

Management of diarrhoea

Reduce sugar-free or diet products that contain sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol. These are used in some sugar-free sweets and drinks, and diet products. Replace lost fluid by drinking enough throughout the day. If you experience wind and bloating, reduce gas-producing foods such as beans, pulses, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and sugar-free mints/chewing gum. Add a tablespoon of linseeds every day to other foods such as yoghurt, porridge and salads. Some people report improvement in diarrhoea if they stop eating gluten (found in wheat, barley and rye) even if they don’t have coeliac disease.

Management of constipation

Make sure you have adequate fluid. Include a wide variety of high fibre foods. This can include oats, oat bran, brown rice, wholemeal or wholegrain bread and pasta, potatoes with skin, quinoa, fruit and vegetables.

The low FODMAP diet Researchers from Melbourne’s Monash University have found that eating a diet that is low in certain carbohydrates (sugars) helped to alleviate symptoms in 75 per cent of the IBS patients they treated. These carbohydrates are called FODMAPs for short – an acronym for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols.

Essentially, these are molecules in foods that are not well digested and absorbed by some people with IBS symptoms. A low FODMAP diet is increasingly being advised by dietitians in the treatment of IBS but it must be done under the care and guidance of an Accredited Practising Dietitian. Other lifestyle advice Regular exercise is a good way to help reduce your symptoms by helping to keep your bowel movements regular and reduce stress.

If your symptoms are noticeably triggered by stress, try stress management or relaxation techniques. Keeping a diary to compare your symptoms with life events may also be helpful. If you recognise that certain events trigger your symptoms, it may be easier to deal with the problem that is causing the symptoms.

Anti-diarrhoea medicines. You should only take these as needed, not on a regular basis. Laxatives. Some bulk-forming and bowel-stimulating laxatives may help if you have constipation. Bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium-containing products. Bowel-stimulating laxatives such as senna tend to be stronger. However, speak to your GP before using them routinely. Antispasmodic medicines. These may help with stomach cramps and wind and include prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Peppermint oil. Peppermint oil capsules, which are available in pharmacies, work as a natural antispasmodic that can relax the smooth muscles in the intestines, providing short-term relief for IBS. Probiotics. These contain helpful bacteria and yeasts and are contained in some yoghurts. There is some scientific evidence that certain strains can be helpful for IBS symptoms, but the evidence isn’t conclusive. Painkillers. If you need to use painkillers, try to use paracetamol as anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or aspirin may make your symptoms worse.

Always read the accompanying consumer medicines information leaflet and if you have any questions, ask your pharmacist for advice. Your GP may prescribe medicines for IBS. These can include prescription-only versions of the medicines mentioned above. Sometimes low-dose antidepressants may be prescribed to help reduce the pain of IBS, even if you’re not depressed.

Psychological therapies If your symptoms don’t improve after a year of treatment, your GP may consider psychological therapies. Talking treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, hypnotherapy or psychotherapy can help relieve the symptoms. These may be most useful for people who have personal difficulties to deal with.

Your GP may refer you to a suitable therapist.

Does paracetamol get rid of IBS pain?

Exacerbating factors – Stress exacerbates IBS rather than being causative in any way. If stress is severe and chronic—for example, stress caused by continuous domestic strife—it can result in the disorder being virtually untreatable.3 Antibiotics need to be used with care in patients with IBS.