Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Homoeopathic Approach

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder and is the most frequently encountered gastrointestinal disorder in the western world. People with IBS have a significantly reduced quality of life and greater absenteeism from work than the general population. In a study conducted by Bengtsson et al (2006), women suffering from IBS complained of feeling misunderstood and receiving little sympathy and support from their family and health workers. Despite its prevalence, the cause of IBS is not well understood. The research conducted on IBS thus far is inconclusive and results are often contradictory.

IBS is considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID). This implies that clinical investigations do not reveal pathological findings. It affects the colon and common symptoms include abdominal pain, abdominal distension, & altered bowel habits. The nature of the abdominal pain is usually described as cramping or colicky, and is commonly concentrated in the lower region of the abdomen, alleviated by a bowel movement. Abdominal distension tends to become worse as the day progresses, but does not seem to coincide with abnormally increased intestinal gas. There is variability in bowel habits, but most people with IBS exhibit a pattern of alternating diarrhoea and constipation.

Despite the benign nature of IBS, symptoms are similar to more serious bowel diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) and colon cancer. This may cause a considerable amount of distress. Clinical investigations are used to exclude the possibility of diseases. The diagnosis of IBS is one of clinical exclusion of all other possible pathology. Those affected by IBS are usually between the ages of 20 and 40 years. The ratio of women diagnosed with IBS is higher than men, the ratio being three to two respectively.

A variety of factors worsen the symptoms of IBS. These include food sensitivities(wheat & lactose especially), stress, anxiety and depression, as well as hormonal fluctuations of the female menstrual cycle.

A HOLISTIC VIEW

Holistically, disease can be viewed as a disturbance of homeostasis in the body. It is this imbalance which makes us more susceptible to experiencing ill health. In homoeopathic terms, disease is viewed as a disturbance of the vital force- that which animates all life.

According to general mind/body dynamics, problems associated with the digestive tract are related to the phenomenon of not trusting the process of life and our incapacity to ‘digest our experiences’. There is an inability to ‘let go’ in all spheres of the person’s life.

THE HOMOEOPATHIC APPROACH

Homoeopathy allows for the treatment of IBS using a holistic & individualised approach. This makes homoeopathic treatment of IBS a unique form of medicine. It considers the individual’s experience of the illness rather than generalising symptoms. It regards not only the bowel dysfunctions commonly associated with IBS, but also addresses disharmony in the psychological aspects (such as stress reactions, anxiety, and depression) and considers individual sensitivities.

The homoeopathic approach can assist in gaining a healthier understanding of ourselves. By knowing ourselves, we are empowered with tools to regaining health and discovering what it means to be well. It leads us inevitably to honouring our innate ability to be our own catalysts to healing. This allows for personal growth and fulfilment of a rich and meaningful life.