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Stress And IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS as it is commonly known can be described as a disorder resulting from impaired functioning of the digestive tract. People suffering from IBS appear to have a disturbance in the way that the gut or the intestines interact with the brain and the nervous system to regulate and control bowel movements.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

SStress is usually associated with psychological factors; however, there are also physical, environmental and other stressors to be considered too. Certain foods and drinks for example can have a stressful effect on the body. Similarly, relationship problems or other worries can increase our stress levels. Where IBS is concerned, stress is known to have an impact on the symptoms of IBS. Why?

The simple answer is that no one really knows why and consequently it is the subject of constant research. What is known is that when we are “stressed” the brain releases chemicals and these chemicals can have an impact on the way the brain and gut interact with each other.

Research has shown that people with IBS have increased sensitivity of the bowel to stresses of all kinds and even an increased perception of pain in relation to digestive functions. When we are faced with stressful situations chemical changes take place in the brain, which sends messages to our digestive system to basically shut down in preparation for the “fight or flight” response which of course will influence motility. Motility is the process of propelling the contents through the gut. Most of us will be familiar with a sensation in the pit of our stomach when we are nervous or stressed. In IBS sufferers these feelings are intensified.

Take for example an individual who is feeling particularly anxious in case they have to move their bowels urgently or are afraid of soiling themselves if they don’t get enough warning. The stress responses will be activated and actually make their symptoms feel worse and possibly bring on the very thing they fear. Again, if there are other stresses in life such as marital or financial problems, trouble at school or work, then the associated stress can exacerbate the symptoms of IBS.

Treatments for stress

Sometimes dealing with any underlying problems can be enough to make a significant difference to the symptoms of IBS. The type of treatments available can include psychotherapy, behavioural therapy, biofeedback therapy, relaxation therapy and even hypnotherapy. However, not all of these will necessarily be available or even suitable for everyone and of course they may not even be successful for all IBS sufferers. IBS is such an individual disorder that it really needs an individual treatment plan. It is important to identify what the best course of action is for you. Sometimes anti-depressants are prescribed at a low dose, for example, amitriptyline, which has been found to help regulate bowel movements.

Tips for coping with stress

Reduce stress by learning some relaxation techniques such as meditation Seek counselling or other professional help if there are situations in your life that you are finding difficult to overcome
Take regular exercise
Talk about your problems with friends and loved ones as they can offer excellent support, and try to avoid stressful situations as much as possible
Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water and at least 2 litres per day
Make sure you get enough sleep