Patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who experience symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating can apply heat to their belly button. By doing so, this increases blood circulation in the abdomen and promotes intestinal peristalsis, which can help alleviate the symptoms of IBS. Besides applying heat to the belly button, traditional Chinese medicine methods such as moxibustion, acupuncture, and physical therapy can also be used. If these treatments do not lead to significant improvements, Western medicines may be employed, such as drugs that adjust the intestinal flora, like compound lactobacillus.