Not only is there no cause, there is also no cure. Treating this condition is a matter of managing the symptoms. The good news is that although uncomfortable, this condition does not lead to more serious health problems like Crohn's disease or colorectal cancer. The largest danger here is misdiagnosis and therefore, mistreatment. In fact, it is suspected that more women with this condition undergo undergo hysterectomies and other surgeries than women without irritable bowel.
Stress seems to have an effect on the severity and frequency of the symptoms.
Therefore, patients are advised to reduce the stress in their lives as much as possible. They are also encouraged to avoid foods that cause gas like broccoli, cabbage and carbonated beverages. Doctors may prescribe medications to help with the symptoms such as fiber supplements or laxatives to regulate bowel movements, ease constipation or help with diarrhea. Sometimes tranquilizers or anti-spasmodics will be given to help with abdominal cramping. In addition to the physical effects of the disease, there are also a number of emotional ones.