Common digestive disorders include irritable bowel syndrome, Chrohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel syndrome, and colitis. All of these have symptoms of either diarrhea, constipation or a combination of the two. These digestive ailments often leave the person afflicted, weak and limited in their activity as they must stay close to a bathroom.
Some 13 million personals are afflicted with Irritable bowel syndrome. There are some theories that it is related to infection but this has not been widely accepted. Treatment consists of medication to ease symptoms such as anti-diarrheal medication in the case of diarrhea. It has been found that medication affecting serotonin levels in the gut improve the symptoms of this condition. Exercise helps as well. Some antidepressants are helpful as well.
Psychotherapy is a treatment measure for some cases of irritable bowel syndrome. It seems that the brain and the gut “communicate”, and that what helps the brain is likely to help the gut. Yoga is also recommended as well as a number of alternative medicines. Enteric coated peppermint oil capsules are one alternative medicine that has some merit. Kiwifruit is another.
Studies have reported that the prevalence of IBS varies by country and by age range. Countries such as Pakistan, Mexico, and Brazil have a higher incidence. Probiotics can be helpful in the treatment of IBS.
Women are more likely to be afflicted and much more likely to go for treatment.
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