IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder characterized most commonly by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. As many as 1 in 5 people in the UK population have symptoms of IBS.
IBS causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, but it does not permanently harm the intestines and does not lead to a serious disease, such as cancer. For some, the symptoms of IBS can be disabling, causing significant impact on personal and professional life.
IBS is a relatively poorly understood condition, although there is growing scientific evidence of alterations in gut bacterial flora, nerve damage and sensitization of the gut.
At Natural Practices we have had much success in virtually eliminating the symptoms of this debilitating condition for our clients by using a combination of approaches. We check for Food Intolerances to identify possible offending foods. If there is a food you are eating each day to which you are intolerant, it will cause bloating, wind and erratic bowel habits.
Other causes can be a lack of essentials to initially digest the food; Enzymes, B Vitamins, Hydrochloric acid and even good bacteria in the small intestine. We check this with the Vitamin and Mineral test. We have achieved excellent results for our clients by a combination of this test together with Colonic Hydrotherapy in order to cleanse the bowel of irritating old waste and impacted materials, anti-spasmodics do not get to the root cause, they only mask the symptoms. If we address all aspects of the digestive tract and improve its efficacy, the symptoms can only improve. See Case History.
Hypnotherapy treatment is now recognised by the NHS as it has achieved impressive results in enabling patients to manage their symptoms. In many cases, patients become symptom-free, needing only occasional 'top-ups' of Hypnotherapy treatment for maintenance. The NICE Guidelines for IBS allow doctors to pay for Hypnosis / CBT for IBS treatment after 12 months of non-effective drug therapy.
If there appears to be something of a more serious nature, we suggest that people consult their GP or ask to be referred to a Specialist.
We work very closely with Dr. Simon Campbell, a Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Alexandra Hospital, Cheadle, Cheshire, who states that in his practice, 10% or more of patients with an initial diagnosis of IBS can have a more serious underlying bowel disorder (needing conventional medical therapy). Dr. Campbell investigates bowel disorders to exclude more serious conditions such as cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and coeliac disease, as well as managing these conditions.
Tests available from Dr Campbell after referral from your GP or Natural Practices:
- Gastroscopy - examination of the oesophagus (gullet), stomach, duodenum (small intestine) using a long thin mini video camera.
- PillCam Capsule Endoscopy - Investigation of the three portions of the small intestine- the duodenum, jejunum and ileum, using a pill-sized video camera.
- Colonoscopy - Investigation of the large intestine Large bowel) using a thin, flexible telescope.
For more information on particular bowel disorders and the investigations, please visit Dr. Campbell's website
Please telephone or email to book an appointment and ask for a Food/ Vitamin and Mineral test and Colonic Hydrotherapy . If the latter does not appeal to you, during the Food test the Practitioner will guide you on how to bowel cleanse using herbs and foods
The products Natural Practices recommend can be purchased from our on-line Shop or by telephone on 01625 549 000. We are aware that the on-line Shop leaves a lot to be desired and are currently working on making improvements.
The information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice and any health concerns should be investigated by your Doctor. Professional medical advice should be sought before embarking on any change of diet or supplementation programme.
