Coping with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a common condition which can vary considerably between individuals. It is well-known as a stress-related disorder, which can significantly debilitate an individual's life. 

Symptoms can include:

• constipation
• diarrhoea
• abdominal pains
• bloating
• flatulence
• pain during/after intercourse
• mucus and pain in the anus
• faecal incontinence
• frequent/urgent urination
• acid reflux

• general malaise

With Irritable Bowel Syndrome, it is common that the sufferer will have been through the Health Care system before consulting a hypnotherapist. Furthermore, you may have undergone various diagnostic procedures, such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, barium enema, blood tests and stool samples; all of which tended to suggest that there were no apparent problems!

Following such tests, IBS is ALWAYS diagnosed by a Doctor. So, if you suffer from any of these symptoms, it is important that you consult a Doctor to ensure that it is safe for you to embark on any course of hypnosis or hypnotherapy. The reason for this is quite simple: Hypnosis and hypnotherapy may actually alleviate symptoms which would have been recognised by you, or your Doctor, as indications that there was a more serious, underlying problem.

The normal motion, or "motility" of the bowel, allows food to be processed and digested by the motion of "peristalsis". This allows food to be passed through the bowels/intestines, whilst enabling nutrients, salts and fluids to be absorbed for use in the body. However, when an individual suffers from IBS, the motility of the bowel can be altered. Confused nerves and electrical impulses often provoke spasms within the bowel, preventing it from functioning effectively. This is when we can see a wide array of symptoms presenting.

Hypnosis and IBS 

In recent years, hypnotherapy has been recognised to dramatically reduce symptoms in Irritable Bowel Syndrome sufferers. Individuals attending for hypnotherapy sessions will normally be dealt with on a  case-by-case basis, as every sufferer may present with a varying degree and range of associated symptoms. Accordingly, the number of hypnotherapy sessions required may vary to suit.

Jennifer Nicholson has undergone specialised training with Michael Mahoney, a successful hypnotherapist dealing specifically in treatments for IBS sufferers. This training has provided her with a clear and concise methodology for delivering successful hypnotherapy sessions to IBS sufferers.

Following any such course of therapy, individuals will be left with an enhanced understanding of IBS. Their symptoms should be reduced or alleviated. Their self-confidence and self-esteem should be boosted. All together, this should enable them to lead a happier, more fulfilled life.