Extinguishing Fear of Gastrointestinal Symptoms to Treat Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Nonpharmacologic options for treating irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional disorder with no organic cause. Risk factors are multifactorial and treatment typically consists of antimotility or stimulant laxatives and antidepressants. This article reviews several newer areas of interest: probiotics, fecal microbiota transplant, a low FODMAP diet, and cognitive behavioral therapy.