BRISTOL HYPNOTHERAPY CLINIC
Advanced / Specialist Courses
When the bowel is working normally, it produces gentle muscular contractions, alternating
with relaxation, that propel its contents toward the rectum and anus for elimination.
In irritable bowel syndrome, the muscular contractions cause spasms, resulting in
abdominal discomfort, trapped wind and erratic diarrhoea and/or constipation.
Other symptoms are bloating, passing mucus and a feeling of incomplete emptying.
Spasms can be very strong creating pain and discomfort into many parts of the body,
chest, shoulder, back and pelvic area. Symptoms can vary considerably from patient
to patient. 10 - 20% of adults experience symptoms of IBS, only half visit their
doctor, twice as many women suffer from these problems.
Researchers found women have increased symptoms during their menstrual cycle, suggesting
that reproductive hormones can cause interference. Nobody seems to know the cause
of IBS, while stress does not cause IBS, it can create an increase in symptoms. Inherited
sensitivity, several foods and beverages, and various drugs have been implicated
as contributing factors. A full history needs to be taken by a doctor, which may
include tests to eliminate other medical problems, and to receive a proper diagnosis.
I also take a full history, sometimes finding early trauma which may cause more sensitivity
to bodily sensations, and often find anxiety and stress, low self confidence and
depression.
75% of patients do not respond to traditional treatment, such as multiple medications,
including steroids, bulking laxatives and special diets. Not many people believe
that hypnosis will work, however, when they become desperate they are willing to
try anything. They often find that in a short period of time, they can now return
to a more normal lifestyle.
CBT and gut directed therapy, teaching self-hypnosis, relaxation techniques and using
visualisation techniques produces exceedingly good results, even though there is
no known cure. This therapy allows a client to go out shopping, work or take a holiday
without experiencing pain, discomfort or the need to think where the nearest toilet
is located. Normally 4 - 7 sessions are required. Many gastroenterologists now advocate
the use of hypnosis, and it should be the first choice of treatment with IBS symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS )
Bristol Hypnotherapy Clinic in residence at the
Greenway Community Practice, Greystoke Ave, Southmead, Bristol BS10 6AF
Tel: 0117-968-6886, Mobile: 07811-373703,
International 44117-968-6886 USA Cell phone 248.252.7301
