Knowledge
is key – information about and an understanding of SBS,
its impact on daily life, and the methods that can be used to
manage it are crucial and can help give a much greater sense
of control.
Communication
is essential – both the people with SBS and their family
and friends must be willing to express needs, frustrations,
disappointments, anger and other emotions that will inevitably
arise; it is equally important to communicate with doctors and
other healthcare providers.
Support
networks are extremely helpful – these groups may consist
of family, friends and groups of others with similar life situations
and problems; the support groups may physically meet or may
meet through chat rooms on the internet.
Other
aids to coping are available – these include stress
management skills and other psychological counseling with specially
trained professionals.
Basics and Beyond
This
section of the website is divided into two general parts: Basics
and Beyond Basics. Both contain descriptions
of the digestive tract and its functions, short bowel syndrome and its
complications, current treatments, and prognosis. The Basics part describes
these in general, nontechnical terms, while the Beyond Basics portion
goes into much greater detail and provides more technical information.
This information
is provided as a general educational service
and is not intended to recommend any particular treatment plan
or to replace the advice of physicians. It is important that patients
seek and rely on the advice of a healthcare professional
about their individual medical conditions.
Knowledge
is key – information about and an understanding of SBS,
its impact on daily life, and the methods that can be used to
manage it are crucial and can help give a much greater sense
of control. 
