I've heard that probiotics can help with IBS and diarrhoea, has that helped you?

[MCS1028]

I keep having really bad flare ups and I want a long term solution rather than a quick fix. Is there anything that has helped you?

[specialmom]

So, IBS is difficult and I too am sorry you deal with it.  Probiotics are one of the things used to combat it for sure.  And it does help many people. Also, it can help to cut down or eliminate caffeine, cut down on alcohol, cut down on fatty food, For diarrhea, cut down on dairy, fruit and artificial sweetener.  Those things really CAN help with it.  They say also to cut down in stress as best you can (meditation, deep breathing, relaxation tapes, etc.) can help and regular exercise. They've found that CBT/counseling can help with stress and that stress is often comingled with IBS.  Those are the lifestyle things that can help with IBS.  Those are long term changes that I'd do even if you begin a treatment to manage it.  Other things that are used include making sure you get enough fiber.  There are actually medications now just for IBS that a doctor would prescribe.  

So, doctors do prescribe medication for IBS that is specifically for it.  Antispasmotics and an antibiotic is often prescribed (name is rifaximin).  

Unfortunately, there is no ONE formula for treating IBS.  Each person is different and you have to find the right path for yourself.  Have you been formally diagnosed?  That's your first step and working with a doctor as purple says is really important.  Hope this gets resolved for you.  good luck

[purple1234567]

I don't have IBS, however, I do know that no fix will just take it away- it's really a condition you have to manage more than 'fix'.  Are you seeing a doctor?  Do you have diet recommendations that you are following?  Diet it going to be very important as you work to manage- so make sure you are talking to a doctor and getting a good idea of the diet you should be following.