Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that causes the sufferer to suffer from a group of disturbing symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements, ranging from diarrhea to constipation. 

This article discusses the close relationship between anxiety and irritable bowel syndrome, reviews the most common symptoms, as well as how to manage both conditions at the same time.

ما هي متلازمة القولون العصبي؟

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic functional disorder that affects the large intestine, affecting colon movement and its nervous balance. Although there are no clear organic changes in the intestine upon medical examination, the patient suffers from a group of symptoms that affect his lifestyle, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and disturbed bowel movement between diarrhea and constipation or a combination of them.

The syndrome occurs as a result of a disruption in communication between the nervous system and the colon, which is known as the gut-brain axis.

Hormonal and genetic factors also play a role in the emergence of the syndrome, in addition to changing the composition of intestinal bacteria, a factor that has received increasing attention in the medical field.

The effect of anxiety on the digestive system

The digestive system is one of the body's most sensitive systems to psychological disorders, and anxiety is at the forefront of the influences that significantly change the way the intestines and stomach work. 

As a result, a person may experience multiple disorders, ranging from bloating, gas, and difficulty digesting, to intestinal cramps that may become chronic over time.

In some cases, anxiety affects the eating pattern, and the consumption of meals becomes unconsciously reduced or increased, which exacerbates digestive symptoms.

While some may think that the symptoms of anxiety are only psychological, its digestive effects are among the most common signs, as many notice a direct link between daily stress and the appearance of problems such as diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling of fullness. 

Learn about: أمراض طب الجهاز الهضمي

Psychological symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms directly affect the quality of daily life, ومن أبرزها:

• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Bloating and feeling of stretching
• الإمساك
• الإسهال
• The presence of mucus in the stool
• The urgent need to defecate
• Symptoms increase during the menstrual cycle

Anxiety may be intense feelings that are difficult to control. Include:

• Feeling stressed
• الخوف
• Constant anxiety
• الاكتئاب 

Triggers and causes of irritable bowel syndrome and anxiety

1- Change in gut microbes

The gut microbiome is an essential component of digestive health, and an imbalance — as a result of antibiotics or infection — may worsen IBS symptoms.

2- Hypersensitivity of the gut-brain axis

IBS is a disorder of the gut-brain axis;

3- Psychological factors

The syndrome may be accompanied by problems such as chronic stress, low energy, fatigue, poor libido, or sleep disturbances.

Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and anxiety

Treatment options vary depending on the type of psychological symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and their severity, and it may require trying more than one method to reach the best result. The most important therapeutic methods are: ما يلي:

• مضادات الاكتئاب: They may help relieve nerve pain and improve accompanying symptoms of anxiety or depression.

• العلاج السلوكي المعرفي (CBT): This type of therapy helps modify disturbed thinking patterns and deal with psychological stress in a better way.

• Exercise: Doing 20–60 minutes of exercise three to five times a week – such as walking, yoga and cycling – is an effective way to reduce pain and constipation and improve mental health as well.

• Hypnotherapy: It helps relieve irritable bowel syndrome by calming disturbed communication between the gut and the brain, reducing digestive sensitivity, and reducing stress and anxiety.

• Low FODMAP diet:  A nutritional method based on avoiding or reducing a certain group of carbohydrates that are difficult for the body to digest, which leads to their fermentation inside the intestines and causing annoying symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain, which are common symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome, but it is preferable to follow it under the supervision of a nutritionist.

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How to control irritable bowel syndrome and anxiety at home?

A range of complementary approaches can be combined alongside medical treatment, ومنها:

To control irritable bowel syndrome:

• Increase dietary fiber: Fiber helps improve and regulate bowel movement, relieves constipation, and gives a feeling of comfort and reduces bloating when consumed gradually.
• Probiotics experience: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help rebalance gut bacteria, which contributes to improved digestion and reduced gas and cramps.
• Avoid fatty and spicy foods: Heavy or spicy foods irritate the intestines and may worsen symptoms.
• Reduce soft drinks and caffeine: Because it increases gas and affects bowel movement, it may cause diarrhea or irritation in some people.
• Use light laxatives when constipated: Mild, safe laxatives can be used when necessary to stimulate bowel movement, but it is preferable to use them for a short period and under medical supervision.
• Use antidiarrheals when needed: When diarrhea recurs, antidiarrheals may help regulate bowel movements and reduce bowel movements, provided they are not used excessively.

To control anxiety:

• ممارسة الرياضة
• Get enough sleep
• Join support groups
• Practice mindfulness
• التأمل

When should you consult a specialist doctor?

It is important to contact your doctor if you notice:

1- A noticeable change in the pattern of defecation.

2- Symptoms persist despite changing lifestyle

3- The effect of symptoms on daily activity or leaving the house due to fear of the urgent need to use the bathroom

4- Symptoms that are not usually consistent with irritable bowel syndrome like:

• The presence of blood in the stool
• Chronic diarrhea
• Repeatedly going to the bathroom abnormally
• Severe abdominal pain
• Bowel movement stops completely

ختامًا؛ We must realize that a balanced understanding of the association between anxiety and IBS enables patients and clinicians to choose effective long-term treatment strategies;

Frequently asked questions about psychological symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

Is irritable bowel syndrome a chronic disease or can it be treated permanently?

Psychogenic irritable bowel syndrome is classified as a long-term disorder, not a disease that can be completely cured, because it is associated with a complex interaction between the intestine and the brain. However, symptoms can be largely controlled when following a treatment plan that combines diet, behavioral therapy, and stress management. With adherence to appropriate treatment, the condition may reach a complete stabilization level that makes attacks rare or almost non-existent.

Can simple daily stresses cause colon attacks?

Yes, even minor stressors can trigger psychological symptoms of IBS. Due to the sensitivity of the gut-brain axis, the gut may overreact to ordinary situations, such as lack of time, busyness, or fleeting stress. As daily stress is repeated, attacks become more frequent and more severe in some people.

How do I differentiate between psychological symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and symptoms of other stomach diseases?

Signs of irritable bowel syndrome are often chronic and recurrent, and improve after defecation or change with eating pattern or psychological state. Other stomach diseases, such as ulcers or stomach infections, usually appear with persistent pain, vomiting, severe weight loss, or the presence of blood in the stool. If the symptoms are new or increase in severity unusually, a doctor should be consulted to rule out any organic condition.

Can stimulant drinks increase irritable bowel syndrome?

Yes, stimulant drinks such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks may irritate the intestines and increase their movement speed, leading to diarrhea or cramps in people with irritable bowel syndrome. Caffeine also stimulates the nervous system, which may increase stress and thus worsen psychological and physical symptoms, so it is recommended to reduce it.

Are irritable bowel syndrome dangerous in the long term?

IBS itself does not cause serious complications such as cancer or intestinal damage, but it can significantly affect daily lifestyle. Persistent attacks may cause psychological fatigue, anxiety, and restriction of daily activities. Unmanaged symptoms may also lead to malnutrition due to the patient's fear of eating or reliance on unbalanced dietary patterns.

Can irritable bowel syndrome cause constant obsession or fear?

Yes, some patients suffer from a state of excessive anxiety or obsessiveness as a result of fear of symptoms appearing in public places or at work, and this constant anxiety may increase sensitivity. Digestive system It makes attacks more frequent, and the patient enters a cycle of symptoms and fear. Cognitive behavioral therapy and stress management methods may greatly help in breaking this pattern.

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