ROLE OF STRESS IN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

Abstract

Stress has been implicated as an important factor in the onset and exacerbation of wide array of disorders, from depression to irritable bowel syndrome. Stress results in the activation of hypothalamic pituitary axis (brain-gut axis) which releases corticotropic releasing hormone. Corticotropic releasing hormone released from hypothalamus secretes cortisone into blood which is a stress hormone, which alters visceral hypersensitivity, gastrointestinal motility, gut microflora, immune system and psychological action. As the pathophysiology and causes of IBS are not well understood, treatment focuses on symptomatic management to maintain everyday functioning and improve quality of life for patient with IBS. This review provides an overview on the impact of stress and causes of irritable bowel syndrome.