The Seven Steps to Taking the Pain out of IBS.

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

Dr Wright is an independent GP, who's advice is unrelated to any specific brand or treatment.

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.