GP, Dr Alasdair Wright offers helpful advice on how to deal with IBS.

The Seven Steps to Taking the Pain out of IBS

Step 1 Get Diagnosed
Be sure that your symptoms are due to IBS and not another condition

Step 2 Treat the root of the problem
To cope with pain, a number of treatments are available for painful abdominal spasms associated with IBS

Step 3 Exercise regularly
Exercise helps relieve depression and stress, stimulates normal contractions of your intestines and can help you feel better about yourself

Step 4 Identify your trigger foods
Keep a food diary. People can often identify food and drinks that trigger symptoms and diet can subsequently be modified

Step 5 Talk things through
It is often the case that stressful events can bring on or exacerbate symptoms. Through dealing with the bigger issues, the pain may be avoided. Don't be afraid to try psychological therapies

Step 6 De-stress
Stress can often be the cause of symptoms to flare-up and can further exacerbate an existing attack so look into relaxation techniques

Step 7 Be informed
It is important to feel in control of your symptoms so gather as much information you can.