If you are diagnosed with IBS, you're not alone -- in fact, you have a lot of company.
Millions of people in the United States have IBS.
This site will enable you to get to know some of them and hear their success stories for keeping IBS symptoms under control.
You also can count on your doctor and other members of your health care team.
They can support you by prescribing medications
to relieve your symptoms and recommending other treatments as part of your overall IBS action plan.
Listening and responding to your concerns is another show of support that's just as important.
You have the power
With IBS, what you eat and how you handle stress, for example, have a definite impact on what your symptoms are like.
That power actually is a positive.
It means you have an opportunity every day to control the triggers that can aggravate your IBS symptoms.
The better you self-manage your IBS symptoms, the more you can take charge of your health and enhance your quality of life.
Create your own plan
There is no method for avoiding triggers or alleviating symptoms that works for everyone.
There is no perfect IBS medication or treatment, either.
If you join the Living Well with IBS program, you can put together "My Action Plan" -- an individualized IBS plan that touches on these areas. Click on the topics that interest you.
Diet
Changing what, how much or when you eat is essential for controlling IBS symptoms.
Fiber therapy
Over-the-counter products like Citrucel with SmartFiber can help to relieve constipation from IBS.
Medications
You and your doctor can tailor a medication plan to address your particular symptoms.
Exercise
Regular exercise may help to regulate your bowel function in addition to easing stress.
Stress management
Find ways to lower your stress level and reduce symptoms, from counseling to meditation.
Alternative approaches
See if acupuncture, probiotics and other "alternative" practices can ease symptoms and stress.
Your IBS plan should reflect your experiences and preferences as well as your doctor’s recommendations.
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Tips for success
Make changes gradually. Start small, build your individualized plan thoughtfully and stick with what works.
Seek out other people with IBS. Learn from their experiences, and offer your own knowledge.
Enlist the support of friends and family. Your IBS affects the people close to you, and they’ll want to help you feel better.
Stay positive. It's never too late to do something that can help you control your IBS symptoms better. One simple change could have a profound effect on how you feel.
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