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 be 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.
Introduction
Everyone approaches disease or physical injury differently.
This is especially true for people with SBS because the nature and severity
of this syndrome vary depending on the length and condition of the remaining
bowel, the type of nutritional regimen required (ranging from oral to
intravenous nutrition), and other complications and diseases that may
impact survival and quality of life. Your attitude, expectations and how
you cope with the condition all influence your individual sense of well-being.
The more knowledge you have about your particular type of SBS and methods
for coping with it on a day-to-day basis, the more likely you are to enjoy
an improved quality of life and a greater feeling of control over your
situation.
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. 