How does stress affect IBS ?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a symptom of stress. It is a functional disorder but not diseases of the digestive system. Foods such as whole wheat and fat can cause a sever contraction of the intestine resulting in abdominal pain, stomach pain, bloating, gas, nausea etc causing an unpleasant situation for the peoples suffering from IBS. There is no cure for the IBS but the symptoms can be controlled by having a strict control over the diet.

Stress can be defined as troubled, angry, mental or emotional feelings. Stress can inspire the colon spasms in the peoples suffering from IBS. Colon has a nerve that connects to the brain. Like the heart and the lungs this colon is also controlled by the nervous system, which inturn responds to the stress. These nerves control the normal contractions of the colon and cause abdominal discomfort at stressful times. Peoples will often experience the cramps in their stomach when they are upset. In peoples with IBS the colon will respond even to a slight stress. Stress makes the mind more aware of the sensations in the colon making the person unpleasant.

IBS is also affected by immune system of the body, actually this immune system fights against the infections in the body. This immune system is affected by the stress. To control these acts it is important to maintain the stress management treatment for IBS.

This includes the following
• Try to practice the stress reduction or relaxation training and relaxation therapies such as meditation.
• Go for counseling and support.
• Try to do regular exercise such as walking or yoga.
• Try to make a change in your lifestyle.
• Try to sleep well.