IBS & Constipation
As with any ‘syndrome’ in allopathic medicine, IBS represents a combination of symptoms rather than a diagnosis with a clearly defined etiology (cause). Mayo clinic defines IBS in this way:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). Irritable bowel syndrome commonly causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. IBS is a chronic condition that you will need to manage long term. More here.
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The most common symptoms of IBS are:
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- A bloated feeling
- Gas Diarrhea or constipation — sometimes alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea Mucus in the stool
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How Chinese Medicine Treats these conditions
The cause of digestive issue is varied and complex. At Peninsula Acupuncture we will use a combination of Eastern and Western diagnostic tools (see Lab Tests- link) to evaluate your condition.
Once correctly diagnosed may use one or all of the following modalities:
- Acupuncture: Optimize digestive function, relax spasms, relieve inflammation
- Herbs: Regulate or facilitate healthy bowel movement, relieve inflammation, support motility, or reduce hyper-motility
- Nutritional supplements: Restore and support gut or intestinal lining, improve enzymatic function, restore flora
- Dietary recommendations: Test for and eliminate inflammatory foods
- Lifestyle advice: Encourage addressing of stressors coming from work or home life. Refer out to appropriate additional resources as necessary