IBS and anxiety relief

It’s not completely understood, but anxiety can actually worsen the symptoms of IBS. Behavioral therapy is one form of relief that is suggested for those who with suffer IBS. To learn how to effectively manage anxiety will ease the aches and pains of IBS. Behavior therapy isn’t a magic pill or cure-all answer, but it does show promise of relief of IBS and anxiety.

The culmination of IBS and anxiety are more commonplace than you may think. It’s estimated that 50-90% of all the people with IBS have some type of a psychiatric disorder.

It’s not uncommon for those who suffer with phobias to also live with IBS and anxiety symptoms. It’s important to get professional help or guidance if you need understanding of your condition. If IBS didn’t cause the phobia, it will certainly aggravate it.

Options include

Behavioral therapy techniques that may provide relief from your IBS symptoms include:

1. Biofeedback. This technique uses an electrical device designed to people respond to stress and anxiety levels. A machine is used to slow the heart rate down until it’s relaxed. Patients are taught how to read the machine and ease their anxiety levels on their own.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This psychotherapy technique teaches patients to recognize negativity and replace it with positive beliefs and thoughts.
3. Hypnotherapy. Patients are required to enter into a state of consciousness, with the help of a professional. This altered state allows visual recommendations to imagine unwanted pain to wane.
4. Relaxation Therapy. Peace and calmness are the goals through deep breathing, guided imagery, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation.
5. Traditional Psychotherapy. A patient is guided by a professional to understand his feelings and restore his conflicts.

Diet changes can help with IBS and anxiety relief. Total avoidance of alcohol, artificial additives and preservatives, caffeine, hydrogenated fats, processed, and simple sugar should be practiced if you want IBS and anxiety relief. Good nutrition is paramount for IBS and anxiety relief.

In combination of this new menu recommendation, you need to make sure you’re not suffering from food sensitivities or allergies.

Stress management classes are another resource that can be taken advantage of. Lifestyle modifications should include plenty of rest. The recommended amount of sleep is 7-9 hours nightly.

Lifestyle modifications should include regular physical activity for relief of IBS and anxiety symptoms. Out of all the options, regular physical activity is believed to be the very best remedy of all. Just 30-60 minutes every day will provide healthful benefits.

Lifestyle modifications should include plenty of fresh air and sunlight. A lack of vitamin D is actually a cause of some anxiety disorders. Just 15 minutes of daily daylight will provide sufficient vitamin D.

There are prescription medications that are available, but you need to be aware of the potential side effects.

Find additional ways to alleviate your symptoms of IBS here.

Sources:
http://panicdisorder.about.com/cs/comorbiddisorders/a/ibsandanxiety.htm
http://www.womentowomen.com/depressionanxietyandmood/anxiety.asp