IBS Essential FAQs

The results of a major study regarding IBS patients and their knowledge about the disorder was published in the September 2007 issue of the American Journal of Gastroenterology. Over 1,200 participants completed a survey designed to assess what information IBS patients have and what information they are lacking. The researchers found that IBS patients often have misconceptions about the cause and prognosis of IBS -- misconceptions that result in unnecessary worry and anxiety. The study also found that IBS patients tend to have many questions, as well as misconceptions, about the role of specific foods and dietary habits.

To ensure that you are as well informed as you can be about IBS, check out this list of Frequently Asked Questions. More importantly, check out the answers.

• Can IBS be cured?
• How can my doctor be sure I have IBS? Shouldn't they run more tests?
• Does IBS pain move and change?
• Will IBS shorten my life?
• Will my IBS worsen as I get older?
• Will I eventually need surgery for my IBS?
• Will IBS turn into cancer?
• Will IBS turn into colitis?
• Will IBS cause me to lose or gain weight?
• What foods should I avoid so my IBS won’t act up?
• Can vitamins help IBS?
• Can therapy help with IBS?
• Can exercise help my IBS? Does IBS affect how intensely I should exercise?
• Are there books on IBS that I should read?
• Should I practice relaxation techniques while I am sitting on the toilet?

_Sources:

Halpert, A., Dalton, C., Palsson, O., Morris, C., Hu, Y., Bangdiwala, S., Hankins, J., Norton, N. & Drossman, D. "What Patients Know About Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and What They Would Like to Know. National Survey on Patient Educational Needs in IBS and Development and Validation of the Patient Educational Needs Questionnaire (PEQ)" American Journal of Gastroenterology 2007 102:1972-1982.