IBS

can IBS be controlled and if so how. Does vicodin, lortab etc. contribute to it's systoms. I have been taking these pain meds for some time now and either or when I choose to not use them between time and appts. I always develope diarrhea very bad. As soon as I take meds my bouts stop. I am aware that it can cause constipation while taking meds, but why the bouts in between.

[dkknight593]

Usually they prescribe antispasmodics.  Control I don't know.  

Painkillers may hide the pain associated with IBS but they probably won't clear the underlying problem.  They are probably working like a antispasmodic for you.

[titantoo]

My problem tends to be constipation, not diarrhea.  However, I find that I can control the constipation with soluble fibre.  My daily regimen (morning, and before bed):  large glass of water with teaspoon of benefibre, 1 tablet of SmartFibre (this is mostly unsoluble fibre with some additional GI beneficial supplementation), digestive enzyme, and 4 probiotic capsules.  
It's afforded me much improved regularity.  And, the stool is fairly normal (most of the time).
Good luck.