Stress, while not the cause of irritable bowel syndrome, can certainly exacerbate its symptoms. Although the DOs and DON'Ts of stress avoidance may be commonplace, experience tells us that people with IBS often need a reminder. If a customer has irritable bowel syndrome, she can follow these guidelines:

DO

• Relax for at least 60 seconds both before and after eating.
  

• Get involved in specific stress-reduction activities: meditation, exercise, prayer, counseling.
  

• Indulge in abdominal self-massage before sleep and whenever IBS pain occurs. Massage around the abdomen, starting at the upper right just under the ribcage, move across the stomach to the left, stroke downward to the lower left corner of the abdomen, and then across to the opposite side, and up to the starting position. Repeat these circles several times. Applying a warm moist towel to the abdomen for 10 minutes prior to the massage may increase its effectiveness.
  

• Express personal feelings—both highs and lows.
  

• Spend time each day with friends.

DON'T

• Eat on the run, while driving the car or talking on the phone.
  

• Eat when angry or emotionally upset.
  

• Keep emotions locked up inside.
  

• Remain in unhealthy situations—be they jobs, relationships or obligations.
  

• Neglect the need for personal time.