It is estimated that in the United Kingdom between 10 and 15 per cent of the population suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, a distressing, frequently embarrassing condition which can often limit ordinary, everyday activities.
Among the common symptoms are recurring abdominal pain or spasms, chronic diarrhoea or chronic constipation - or a combination of both. These can continue for years.
(See box below for fuller list of commons symptoms)
It is a condition which affects both men and women - but women suffer a far higher incidence of irritable bowel syndrome which can result in particularly painful periods.
Just as there are many symptoms there are also numerous causes. For IBS is not a disease but a functional disorder caused by the bowel failing to function as it should. |
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For links to IBS sites which provide helpful information and advice
Click Here |
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| Details of international studies into gut directed hypnotherapy can be found by Clicking Here |
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| The Rome II criteria for IBS are the accepted diagnostic standards for research and clinical care. These state that the presence of abdominal pain/discomfort is required for the diagnosis of IBS. The pain or discomfort must be associated with at least two of the three criteria linking the pain to change in bowel habit. So pain/discomfort alone, or with only one of the three criteria, is not sufficient for the diagnosis of IBS |
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Abdominal pain.
Cramping
Diarrhoea (sometimes fairly soon after eating.)
Constipation
Bloating
Recurring combination of diarrhoea then constipation.
Feeling need for bowel movement though already had one.
Excessive wind/flatulence
Mucus in stools
Blood in stools
Pain in muscles, joints, back.
Painful menstrual periods.
Frequent urination.
Feeling anxious/depressed |
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In essence however it is the result of problems with the way in which a patient’s digestive system, brain and autonomic nervous system work or interact together.
Though IBS is not regarded as life-threatening and sometimes the problems are relatively mild, prompting some patients to insist they "don't want to bother the doctor," it is important anyone experiencing such symptoms should consults their GP, not least because other more serious ailments can produce similar indications.
Patients diagnosed as suffering from IBS are usually advised to change their eating habits and sometimes a different diet, particularly cutting out spicy foods, can prove to be the solution. But often it is not. More is needed … and that does not necessarily mean trying out a range of over-the-counter remedies.
For more than 20 years a series of studies, conducted in several countries, have shown that gut directed hypnotherapy can offer significant and sustained improvements for IBS patients. Success rates are reported as high as 80 to 95 per cent.
Bill Doult is a therapist who has been specifically trained in gut directed hypnotherapy techniques to reduce stress and the sensitivity of the abdominal organs. He is a member of the IBS Register which provides information and support to IBS sufferers.
He uses therapeutic methods to calm patients’ internal and emotional responses while developing a greater sense of personal control, with patients being taught self-hypnosis techniques. |
Research in this area was pioneered by Dr Peter Whorwell, Professor of Medicine and Gastroenterology at Manchester University's Medical School and Director of the South Manchester Functional Bowel Service, who says: "IBS is ideal for treatment with hypnosis, as there is no structural damage to the body.
"During the hypnotherapy, sufferers learn how to influence and gain control of their gut function, and then seem to be able to change the way the brain modulates their gut activity.
Another recent study was the trial conducted by Edinburgh University - published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing - showing hypnotherapy both reduced IBS symptoms and improved the quality patients’ lives.
The Edinburgh investigation was headed by Dr Graeme D Smith who explained: "There's no universal agreement about what causes IBS and traditional treatment is often disappointing. This study shows that hypnotherapy can effectively reduce symptoms and improve quality of life and underlines the valuable role that complementary therapies can play in modern healthcare. |
