Scientific research has shown that the brain & the digestive system are linked via numerous neurological & chemical pathways. Due to these pathway connections the brain can have a powerful effect on the digestive system as well as visa versa with the digestive system having a powerful effect on the brain.
Those with IBS are often found to have not just physical symptoms, but psychological symptoms as well. These symptoms are usually anxiety, panic attacks & depression. In some cases people with IBS had these psychological symptoms before they developed IBS, while others develop them after IBS symptoms appear.
In some cases someone’s state of mind can play a heavy part regarding the severity of their IBS. Does this mean that IBS is a disease entirely in someone’s head? No! In some cases psychological treatments are very effective in helping to moderate IBS symptoms or even cure IBS altogether. Not everyone has IBS symptoms for the same reasons & not everyone will benefit from psychological treatment.
Psychological treatments that have helped some people with IBS are Counseling, Medication, IBS Support Groups, Hypnotherapy for IBS & Meditation.
IBS impacts all aspects of your life including your work. It can be especially difficult if you are dealing with an occupation that may not have bathrooms readily available, one that requires significant travel or one that is physically active.
Unfortunately many employers and doctors are in the dark as to how IBS can affect your ability to perform your job. Most employers do not typically care about your personal or health problems unless they have to by law or you have created a personal relationship with your employer. This is why it’s important with how you approach managing your IBS with your job.
People dealing with IBS often have to deal with psychological symptoms as well as physiological symptoms.The brain & the gut are connected together via numerous neurological pathways. The gut & brain also extensively use serotonin to communicate. Serotonin is a chemical that is often related to mood & anxiety disorders. This neurological & chemical connection is known as the “brain-gut connection”. Some researchers have even referred to the digestive system as “the second brain”. Continue reading “Psychological IBS Symptoms” »
IBS symptoms vary by their type, intensity & duration. Some people experience short term IBS flares while others experience more chronic IBS symptoms. Those who experience chronic IBS symptoms may also be susceptible to IBS flare-ups as well. Continue reading “Physical IBS Symptoms” »
You’re probably reading this because you think you have IBS or have been recently received a positive IBS diagnosis. Perhaps you yourself are not impacted directly by IBS, but you are instead seeking information for a loved one or a friend who’s life is being affected. Seeking help is the first step to gaining an understanding and hopefully control over the symptoms that affect peoples lives when dealing with IBS.