Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition that affects at least 1 in 4 of the population at some point in their lives and is present in 50% of all cases seen by gastroenterologists.
Although there is no evidence to suggest that IBS is life threatening or adversely affects life expectancy, the quality of life for IBS sufferers is often severely affected. Despite the condition being classed as non-serious, it has serious cost implications to the UK National Health Service and health insurance providers throughout the world. Diagnosis of IBS is often reached by exclusion of diagnosable physical abnormalities and organic disease.

Common symptoms of IBS are:

• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Flatulence
• Abdominal Pain
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Full Bladder Feeling

The exact causes of IBS are not known however it is believed to be caused by exaggerated contractions of the intestinal muscles. Studies indicate that IBS often begins following a period of emotional stress and symptoms worsen in stressful situations. Hypnotherapy has been shown to be very efective in relieving the symptoms of IBS and I have had specialist training with Michael Mahoney of the UK Register of IBS Therapists in Using Hypnotherapy With IBS Patients. I use a structured programme which consists of 6 Hypnotherapy sessions plus supporting CDs and an invaluable book entitled "Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome" published by the BMA

If you have been diagnosed* with IBS and would like more information on how I can help please contact us

* IBS should not be self-diagnosed please contact your GP to have a diagnosis confirmed