Bowel Symptoms and Bloating: ... Video Transcript

Webcast Transcript

The third factor is communication between the brain and the gut. That's important for general gut function. If there is any disregulation in the brain/gut interactions, you will have changes in bowel function.

ANNOUNCER: Because the brain communicates with the intestines, emotions and stress can contribute to flare-ups of bowel disorders.

SUSAN LUCAK, MD: Psychological factors do not cause irritable bowel syndrome. But they may aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. For instance, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and other psychological disturbances may worsen the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

ANNOUNCER: While the causes of IBS remain unknown, doctors can provide a great deal of help. In fact, one of their key messages to people suffering from gastrointestinal disorders is: don't try to go it alone.

BRIAN LACY, MD: As a physician, one of the frustrating things I find about IBS is that oftentimes many patients with chronic symptoms don't see a doctor. And I think that we need to educate patients better about that to get them to come in so we can reassure them. And to let them know there are now medications available that can improve their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

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