Anxiety and Depression Thanks To IBS

We’ve talked about how high stress levels and anxiety cause IBS but what about the anxiety, high stress level and depression that IBS causes?

It’s really no great mystery why the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome could cause things like a high stress level, depression and anxiety. Think about it, you’re leaving the house to go somewhere that you committed yourself to go to. Then it strikes. Abdominal cramping, feeling bloated, and the dreaded diarrhea. Do you call and cancel AGAIN? Read more

Does High Stress Levels and Anxiety Cause IBS?

Studies are coming out showing people with higher anxiety or stress levels are more likely to be sufferers of Irritable Bowel Syndrome also known as IBS.

How did this discovery come about? There was a study done of 620 patients suffering from Gastroenteritis triggered by a bacterial infection. When these patients participated in the study they were asked to complete a very detailed questionnaire. This consisted of questions regarding their mood, perfectionism, illness beliefs, behaviors and their perceived stress levels.

These patients were rechecked for signs of IBS at 3 and 6 month follow ups. Those who showed the signs at both of those follow ups had showed significantly higher levels of stress, anxiety and psychosomatic symptoms on their questionnaire. Read more