IBS Psychology - About Psychology In Irritable Bowel Syndrome

"IBS Psychology - The Importance of Psychology In Irritable Bowel Syndrome"

Psychology in IBS is important and there appears to be an intimate link between the two. There's evidence that up to 50% of sufferers studied have some degree of psychiatric disorder. This makes it a significant mental health issue. It should not be neglected and consideration should always be given to the use of psychological therapies in IBS.

The psychology in Irritable Bowel Syndrome does have some evidence base to it. The inference that sufferers don't have nocturnal or night time symptoms would favour this. Also, the lack of response to medical therapies favour more than a physical link. Antidepressants with their ability to change the chemical messenger effects in the brain have been used to good effect in some IBS sufferers.

The above has brought about the theory that there is an abnormal Brain-Gut interaction in people with IBS.

There are a number of complex physical factors such as disordered gut motility, hypersensitivity of the gut, possibly genetic and environmental factors (diet, geography etc) which have been proposed to interact with brain perception.

IBS psychology factors are linked with both anxiety and depression which are common illnesses. Referral to a psychologist maybe helpful in some people that demonstrate these features. IBS medication in the form of antidepressants have been used, particularly the Tricyclic Antidepressants such as Amitriptyline in IBS . They do have side effects which can put people off taking them as well as the perceived stigma of taking such a drug. The lowest dose is normally used and has a demonstrated benefit. This minimises the common side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision and difficulty passing urine. Drowsiness is a welcome side effect as it helps aid sleep and the drug should be taken at night. They are particularly effective in patients with abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

The newer antidepressants (SSRI's or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) have also been used in the psychology of IBS, but studies with all these drugs have been small and often use is anecdotal.

Cognitive behavioural therapy or psychotherapy may be helpful. This maybe one to one therapy or group therapy trying to address the thoughts, feelings, emotions and physical symptoms of the sufferer. There have been several studies of this therapy in the psychology of IBS that have supported its use. It is an ideal approach for people that would like to explore non-drug ways of dealing with their symptoms.

In summary, the psychology of IBS is clearly fascinating, although studies of this link have been small. Therapy should be considered in all patients, particularly when conventional management has failed. Psychology in IBS should never be neglected. If you wish to discuss any mental health issues the you can discuss them with the Online Doctor.

Would You Like To Share Your Problems Here?

Do you have anxiety, relationship or depression problems? Share your story, its very therapeutic!

It’s so easy to do and you will remain totally anonymous unless you provide your name for others. No one will be able to contact you directly apart from through the comments and there is absolutely no registration, so it couldn't be easier!

What Other Visitors Have Said

Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...