Cognitive Behavioral Therapy may Help IBS Patients

While medication is often the only way to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a group of American researchers have found that simple behavioral therapy could be all that is needed to treat the condition in some patients.

Some of the //leading symptoms of IBS include bouts of abdominal cramps, bloating and changes in bowel habits including diarrhea and constipation. Existing therapies are palliative only and there is a need for new therapies that improve the condition.

Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is characterized by bouts of diarrhea, bleeding per rectum and pain, which remits and relapses. Fulminant colitis is a possibility, which may require colectomy.

Now researchers examined the impact of behavioral therapy on IBS. They recruited 75 people diagnosed with IBS for this study. Among them half received 10 sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy on a weekly basis, while others received 4 sessions spread over 10 weeks.

The researchers reported that within 4 weeks 30% of patients reported relief in symptoms. The study also found that self-monitoring helped many patients identify their symptoms quickly.

Source-Medindia
RAS

Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease or regional enteritis is an inflammatory bowel disease that involves the small intestine and causes abdominal pain, diarrhea and bleeding.

Smoking Influences Crohn's Disease
A new study in The American Journal of Gastroenterology suggests that smoking may determine which part of the intestinal tract is attacked in those who suffer from Crohn’s disease.

Regular Aspirin Use Increases Risk of Crohn's Disease
People who consume aspirin regularly for a year or more carry an enhanced risk of developing Crohn's disease, a new study has claimed.