I.B.S. (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) / Hypnotherapy
The symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) include diarrhoea, constipation, and severe abdominal pain. Although these symptoms can be treated and controlled, stress or the emotion of anxiety and nervousness can make these symptoms worse and reduce the effectiveness of any such treatment. Anyone suffering from IBS will need to take steps to reduce the amount of stress in their lives or to learn how to control their reactions to such stress. Hypnotherapy and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) are well-established interventions for reducing stress and anxiety, and both of these techniques are combined in the Hypnowellness approach.
Stress can provoke feelings of anxiety and worry. Also, when the body is undergoing a period of stress one can fell overwhelmed or frantic. In response to a stress stimulus, the brain releases chemicals to help the body and body systems respond to danger. These chemicals can increase heart rate, increase breathing patterns, cause temperature changes in the body and cause muscles to contract. During periods of short-term stress these reactions in the body can help one think clearer, function better and become stronger in order to escape or solve the danger or circumstances that are causing the stress.
However, during extended periods of stress, the brain can overcompensate and too many chemicals can be released. This overload can lead to problems with the immune system, digestive system and even the heart. Without proper stress-relieving techniques in place, extended stress can eventually lead to long-term health problems, certain medical conditions and even disease.
Although the exact cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not yet known, and it may yet be discovered that there is no simple single cause, a great number of doctors and specialists believe the disorder has is connected to the body's immune system. It is also widely understood that an increase in unmanaged stress can adversely affect the immune system, so it can follows that this stimulation will make the symptoms outbreaks and of IBS worse. For someone suffering from IBS, the effect of stress will be an increase in the frequency of episodes, as well as the severity of outbreaks. The effectiveness of any conventional IBS treatment programme may also be compromised.
As part of the 'Fight or Flight' response, when the brain becomes stressed or overwhelmed by an event or thought, it releases chemicals. These chemicals act on the nerves in the colon and cause the intestines to contract or spasm, too fast or too slow. Under stress these spasms can speed up or slow down the digestive system to the point where there may be symptoms of diarrhoea or constipation. When the digestive system becomes overactive through the stress response, it may also produce excess gas. This will lead to bloating, cramping, and even severe abdominal pain.
Other situations where there may be exposure to a stress overload might include family problems, work or career issues, exam anxiety, any of which may trigger symptoms of IBS in some people. It is vital therefore that any therapy is underpinned by a clear understanding of all the factors involved in a particular client's 'stress profile', so that effective treatment can be given.
Hypnotherapy, whether alone or in adjunct with other treatments, has been shown to be highly effective in helping sufferers control their symptoms, and even to completely free themselves of this condition. Extensive and on-going research by Peter Whorwell, Professor of Medicine and Gastroenterology in the School of Medicine and Director of the South Manchester Functional Bowel Service has found extremely encouraging results for the correctly applied use of Hypnotherapy for I.B.S. Please click here for more information:
In a recent article by Lucy Elkins in the Daily Mail, a report into the effectiveness of various online IBS remedies had this to say about Hypnotherapy from Dr Nick Read:
"Gut-directed hypnotherapy has shown impressive results for IBS in the short-term, and hypnotherapy is mentioned in NICE guidelines for IBS. The combination of identifying stress factors and applying hypnotherapy as a means of relaxing the body and reducing the impact of stress will be of help to many."
Treatment for IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is available at all my practice locations - in North London in Highgate and in Radlett (Herts). I also treat IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) from my City of London practice.
Hypnotherapy and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) sessions are usually for one hour; and regular sessions are recommended. To book a session or to discuss how Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Hypnotherapy can help with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), do please call Paul now on 0844 736 1438 or just use the button below.
An initial free consultation is also available to learn how Hypnowellness, with its integrated approach to I.B.S. treatment, may guide you gently back to health.
