Social Anxiety Disorder - How to Overcome IBS
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a disorder that affects the lower part of a person’s intestinal tract. It doesn’t render permanent injury to your bowels; it only indicates that something isn’t functioning well. Irritable bowel syndrome is not considered a disease, but is rather used to describe symptoms which include the following:
- Constipation and/or diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Whitish mucus found in the stool
- Swollen or bloated abdomen
- Stomach pain
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Social Anxiety
Social anxiety and stress have been known to have an influence over the functions of the gastrointestinal tract. Most individuals who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome are reported to be suffering from social anxiety. According to studies, people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome become sensitive to stress chemicals which trigger exaggerated reactions of the colon.
Some factors which worsen panic disorder may also aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Caffeine, stress and alcohol are known to trigger social anxiety attacks; these are also associated with causes that increase the symptoms of IBS. If you are taking medications for anxiety or panic disorder, it’s vital to inform your doctor if you are also experiencing symptoms of IBS. This is because some medications meant to control anxiety and panic disorders may worsen the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. But this isn’t always the case since some anxiety and panic medications are also known to alleviate IBS symptoms.
Treatment
Most individuals with irritable bowel syndrome only experience this problem occasionally. However, there are also a few who experience this for longer periods and require medications.
- If you have irritable bowel syndrome, it is advisable to modify your diet as soon as you experience the symptoms. Temporarily avoid dairy products because some symptoms of IBS are similar to lactose intolerance symptoms. You should also exercise regularly and take calcium supplements. Avoid certain foods which may worsen flatulence and bloating, like legumes, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower.
- Smoking is known to worsen irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. This will be a good reason for you to quit if you are a smoker.
- Adding fiber to your diet is a good treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. Theoretically speaking, this will enlarge the inner part of your digestive tract, decreasing the chances of spasm as food is transmitted and digested. Fiber is also known to encourage regular bowel movement which reduces the chances of constipation. However, fiber should only be added gradually on your diet since it may worsen flatulence and bloating at first. Make it a point to observe a proper and healthy diet.
- Stress is one of the common triggers of irritable bowel syndrome. Minimize stress in your life and learn ways on how to manage it.
- Most individuals with irritable bowel syndrome have intolerance on certain foods. It may be helpful to keep a food diary to be able to determine which ones trigger and worsen your IBS.
IBS will need to dealt with as soon as possible – if not, it could get worse overtime.