Steps you can take to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Solutions for irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder characterized by constipation, cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Although IBS causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, it does not damage the intestines permanently and does not lead to a serious disease, such as cancer.
Symptoms can be controlled with diet, stress management, and prescribed medications. For some people, however, IBS can be disabling. They might be unable to attend social events, work, or take trips.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment
There is no cure for IBS, but there are options available to treat symptoms. Doctors will prescribe good treatments for your symptoms. You might also consider changing your diet and managing your stress to treat IBS.
Medications prescribed by your doctor are an important aspect of your IBS treatment. Fiber supplements or laxatives for constipation or medicines to decrease diarrhea, such as Lomotil or loperamide (Imodium), may be suggested by your doctor for prescription. Doctors also typically prescribe an antispasmodic which helps to control colon muscle spasms and reduce abdominal pain. Antidepressants may also relieve some symptoms. But since antispasmodics and antidepressants can worsen constipation, some doctors will also prescribe medications that relax muscles in the bladder and intestines, such as Donnapine and Librax. Both these drugs contain a mild sedative that has the potential to be addictive so they need to be used under the strict guidance of a physician. Medications available specifically to treat IBS are
• Alosetron hydrochloride (Lotronex). This drug has been reapproved with significant restrictions by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for women with severe IBS whose illness has not responded well to other forms of therapy and medication. This drug should be used with caution as it contains side effects such as severe constipation. 
• Tegaserod maleate (Zelnorm). This drug has been approved by the FDA for the short-term treatment of women with IBS whose primary symptom is constipation.
It is important to follow doctor’s instructions on any medications, including over-the-counter drugs. Laxatives can be habit forming if they are used too frequently, and taking too much fiber at once can cause gas and abdominal bloating.
Since no one medication or combination of medications will work for everyone with IBS, every medication will work differently. You will need to work with your doctor to find the best combination of medicine, diet, counseling, and support to control your symptoms.
Stress and IBS
Colon spasms can be brought about by stress in people with IBS. The colon has many nerves that connect it to the brain and is connected through a nervous system that responds partially to stress. These nerves control colon contractions, leading to painful spasms. Stress management tips include taking up relaxation therapies such as meditation, counseling and support, adequate sleep, changes to stressful situations in your life, and regular exercise.