Hypnotherapy for Chronic Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder characterised by recurring episodes of abdominal pain or discomfort linked to bowel habits. This condition affects between 5-10% of the global population and can occur in both children and adults of any gender.

While irritable bowel syndrome does not reduce life expectancy, it is associated with significant healthcare and economic costs. Research indicates that individuals with IBS have more frequent healthcare visits, diagnostic procedures, and surgeries. IBS can also have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life.

In IBS, routine tests show that the digestive system appears normal. Therefore, it is essential to classify it as a functional gastrointestinal disorder. However, there is growing evidence suggesting that the symptoms of IBS may be caused by one or more of the following factors:

We explore IBS, how it affects individuals, and why hypnotherapy could be the missing link to better digestive health.

Chronic Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder of the digestive system and gut that causes the bowel to be very sensitive. The condition causes recurring pain and discomfort in the abdomen and often, the nerves and muscles don't work as they should.   

IBS is one of the most common disorders of the digestive system. Worldwide, it's estimated that around 10% of the population has IBS, and it’s thought to affect one in five people during their lifetime. Many people living with irritable bowel syndrome find their symptoms to be an occasional nuisance; for other people, however, the condition can seriously affect their quality of life.

Some individuals with irritable bowel syndrome experience constipation, others have diarrhoea, and some may suffer from both. The pain can range from mild to severe and may happen at a particular time of the day. The exact cause of IBS is not currently known. While the condition can change over time and be managed successfully with the right strategies, it's often a lifelong condition.

Symptoms of IBS

Symptoms can vary from person to person and can be experienced at differing severities. In some people, the symptoms seem to be triggered by something they have had to eat or drink, stressful periods, or food poisoning.

Some of the more common symptoms of IBS include:

• pain and discomfort in the abdomen

• bloated abdomen

• gas

• indigestion

• feeling full

• nausea

• diarrhoea

• constipation

• cramping

• heartburn

• muscle pains

How does hypnotherapy help with bloating?

Hypnotherapy has been used by many to manage numerous instances of pain, including irritable bowel syndrome, sciatica, spinal stenosis, joint pain and a variety of other injuries and illnesses. The premise of hypnotherapy is to change the way individuals perceive pain messages to reduce the intensity of what they are feeling. We use Integration CBT based on hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, which allows you to feel safe in meeting that challenge in a way that is most effective for you as an individual.  

Hypnotherapy has been used by many to manage numerous instances of pain, including irritable bowel syndrome, sciatica, spinal stenosis, joint pain and a variety of other injuries and illnesses. The premise of hypnotherapy is to change the way individuals perceive pain messages to reduce the intensity of what they are feeling. We utilise Integration CBT in hypnotherapy and Mindfulness, enabling clients to confront challenges in a manner that is most efficient for the individual, while feeling safe.

Fight or Flight Response

When someone experiences a symptom like pain, they might have negative thoughts about it. Similar to fear or frustration, these negative emotions trigger the body's "fight or flight" response, leading to an increase in stress hormones and heart rate. Changes in the gut are part of this reaction to the perceived danger and can include diarrhea, constipation, pain, or discomfort.