Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome is not a specific disease, but is used to describe a group of symptoms that may include:
- Stomach pain
- Flatulence (gas)
- Bloated or swollen abdomen
- Diarrhea, constipation or a combination of both
- Whitish mucus in the stool
The label “IBS” is often used when medical testing does not result in a specific diagnosis for the symptoms. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is usually chronic, but symptoms may be absent for long periods of time between episodes.
IBS Related to Anxiety and Depression
Stress and anxiety have been shown to interfere with gastrointestinal function. It is estimated that up to 60% of people who seek medical care for IBS also report anxiety and/or a mood disorder. Some researchers believe that people with IBS are sensitive to certain stress chemicals, resulting in an exaggerated response of the colon.
Some things that aggravate panic disorder may also worsen symptoms of IBS. For example, stress, alcohol and caffeine tend to trigger panic attacks and have, also, have been linked to increased IBS symptoms. And, if you worry about being away from a nearby restroom, you may experience increased symptoms of agoraphobia.
If you are receiving medication for panic disorder, it is important to talk to your doctor if you have symptoms of IBS. Some medications used to treat PD may produce side effects that worsen your IBS symptoms. On the other hand, some PD medications may relieve IBS symptoms.
Self-Help Tips to Manage Your IBS Symptoms
- Find Your Dietary Triggers
Many times, the symptoms of IBS are aggravated by certain foods or beverages. These are often called “triggers,” and they are different for everyone. Common triggers that have been shown to increase IBS symptoms, include:
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Insoluble fiber (i.e., raw vegetables, the skin on fruits)
- Foods high in fat
- Carbonated beverages
- Dairy products
You may have these and many other dietary triggers. By keeping a food diary and following an elimination diet, you can discover what aggravates your IBS symptoms.
- Manage Stress
Excessive stress has been linked to increased IBS symptoms and increased symptoms of panic disorder. It is important to help both your IBS symptoms and your PD symptoms by being aware of you stress level and incorporating stress management techniques into your life.
Sources:
Haug MD PhD, Tone Tangen, Mykletun MA, Arnstein, and Dahl MD PhD, Alv A. "The Association Between Anxiety, Depression, and Somatic Symptoms in a Large Population: The HUNT-II Study." Psychosomatic Medicine." 66:845-851, 2004.
Haug MD PhD, Tone Tangen, Mykletun MA, Arnstein and Dahl MD PhD, Alv A. "Are anxiety and depression related to gastrointestinal symptoms in the general population?" Scand J Gastroenterol 37(3): 294-298, 2002.
The John Hopkins University Digestive Disease Library. Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2008.
