Healthy living
Mind matters
Worry guts
High levels of stress and anxiety can damage your digestion
Over-anxious people who push themselves are more likely to develop irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) after contracting gastroenteritis, according to a study published in the journal Gut.
Researchers at the University of Southampton asked patients suffering from gastroenteritis to complete a questionnaire when they first complained of symptoms. However, anyone with a history of bowel problems was excluded from the study.
The questions were designed to reveal the sufferer's mood, levels of perfectionism and anxiety about the illness. Volunteers were then asked to complete a follow-up questionnaire three and six months later to determine whether they had developed IBS.
Six months after their initial infection, 49 people were found to have symptoms of IBS. The study revealed that patients with high stress and anxiety levels were considerably more likely to develop IBS after a bout of gastroenteritis. Sufferers who worried about their symptoms or did not slow down after getting ill were also more likely to go on to develop the condition. Women had a 50 percent greater risk of developing IBS than men.
The study concluded that gastroenteritis may trigger the symptoms of IBS, but according to the authors, "behaviour and emotions may help to prolong and maintain them over time."
The team suggested cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as a treatment. This is a form of talking therapy where patients are encouraged to overcome their negative thought patterns, thus reducing stress levels. The study also pointed out how important it is to give yourself time to recover and not to push yourself too hard after an infection.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common gut disorder affecting up to one in five people in the UK. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhoea. The cause of IBS is unclear and there is no actual cure but the symptoms can be eased with treatment.
Tips for coping with IBS
- Antispasmodic medicines can be prescribed by your doctor.
- For some people certain foods can trigger IBS. Start with a bland diet and then gradually add in different foods to try and identify the culprits. Wheat, dairy products and coffee are common triggers.
- Cut down alcohol intake and stop smoking.
- Regular exercise may help to ease symptoms.
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Information on this site is for interest only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should consult your own doctor about any specific health concerns.