IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a chronic or long term disorder of the digestive system.The main symptoms of IBS include;
Abdonminal distress or discomfort
Variation in pattern of defocation (diarrhoea/ constipation)
Abdominal bloating
Mucous in stools

IBS symptoms may fluctuate; there may be times when the symptoms are particulary troublesome and times where no symptoms are experienced at all. Although IBS holds no real threat to health, it does certainly have an affect on the person's quality of life.

IBS is the most common gastrointestinal condition in the UK and effects 10-20% of the population (however this figure may be higher as many people do not visit their GP to get a diagnosis). It is twice as common in women than it is in men and often commences between the ages of 20-30; it can however, effect people of any age. There is no cure for IBS but the symptoms can be managed to a point where they no longer have an effect on quality of life.

Changes in emotional states such as stress or depression can cause IBS flare ups. IBS is more common in people who have had a traumatic experience at some point in their lives. How you think or feel can effect the health or your body. Stress and depression impact on your body by causing it to create chemical changes. These changes affect how the digestive system works which causes the symptoms common to IBS.
There is evidence to suggest that relaxation is effective in controling the effects of IBS. Hypnosis has a high success rate in management of symptoms of IBS because it is well documented that IBS symptoms are exacerbated by psychological stress.

To undergo treatment for IBS with hypnosis a medical diagnosis is required.

"A symptom is the mind's attempt at finding a solution"