Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

IBS is a motility disorder involving the intestines. Persons with this health issue may experience variable degrees of abdominal pain, constipation and / or diarrhea which worsens as a reaction to stress. It is estimated that 10-20% of all American adults experience symptoms of IBS, and people with IBS account for half of all the doctor visits for gastrointestinal complaints. IBS affects three times as many women as men, and after the common cold, this health issue is the next most common cause of missed school and work.

No one knows why some people develop a heightened sensitivity of the GI tract, at least in terms of Western medicine, but researchers are working on the theory that there are direct links between the GI tract and central nervous system. Such a brain-gut connection would explain why emotional upsets affect the intestines and why intestinal symptoms affect the mood.

Unfortunately , many people experience side effects from any or all of the types of Western drugs used to treat this condition. Unlike some conditions, TCM is fairly unanimous in its description of the TCM mechanisms of this disorder and it's herbal / acupuncture approach to it. All Chinese sources say that this condition is worsened by stress, overeating sugars and sweets, obsessive thinking, too much fatigue, and too little physical exercise. Together, these factors lead to what is called a liver-spleen disharmony.

If the liver is stagnated and the spleen is vacuous and weak, a number of other issues can arise. The main ones in IBS are the creation of damp turbidity, damp heat and / or blood stasis.  In addition, TCM finds that persons in their 40's or older may also develop kidney weakness due to spleen issues reaching the kidneys. It is easy to see that these patterns are complicated. Seeking professional help is a must, regardless of the path you choose.

Positive changes in one's lifestyle and diet are very helpful when working with these issues. Stress reduction, exercise, meditation and plenty of rest / sleep may also be puzzle pieces for those who have these conditions.

Although this article refers mostly to IBS, many digestive issues relate to similar patterns in people. Discuss your options with your primary health care provider before embarking on any path to resolve these issues. If you are taking any prescription medications, never stop taking them without first consulting with the prescribing physician. There are no magic bullets out there but many people have found TCM and acupuncture have helped them with these issues.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via email at viableoption@sbcglobal.net or by phone at 816.283.0685.

Be well!

David Laskowski, Herbalist-Iridologist
Viable Options - N. Kansas City, MO

"The author of this article does not advocate nor endorse self-treatment by laypersons. One should seek out a qualified practitioner in herbs, chiropractic, acupuncture and check with their primary healthcare provider prior to making any changes in their health care approach"