Читать книгу Anxiety For Dummies - W. Doyle Gentry, Laura L. Smith - Страница 54

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that involves a variety of related problems, usually including cramps or pain in the abdomen, diarrhea, and/or constipation. These occur in people with no known physical problems in their digestive systems. IBS negatively impacts the quality of life for the 10 to 20 percent of the population, mainly women, who suffer from it. For many years, doctors told most of their patients that irritable bowel syndrome was caused by stress, worry, and anxiety.

Genetic research has found various genes that may contribute to the emergence of IBS. However, the exact role that genes play in this disorder remains unclear. More research is needed.

There is no known cure for IBS, and treatments are targeted at symptoms. Various medications have been found to decrease some of the worst symptoms of IBS. In addition, psychotherapy that teaches relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and techniques for coping with anxiety and stress also improves IBS symptoms. So, at this point, no one really knows to what extent IBS is caused by physical causes, anxiety, or stress. It’s more likely, however, that the mind and body interact in important ways that can’t always be separated.