Checking in from the pandemic — how’s it going out there? Yes, I know. We’re shuckspod. That realization can cause anxiety. Anxiety often is a trigger for those affected with irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome is a neurologic disorder of the GI tract. It’s like a seizure. Nerves twitch and affect the muscle resulting in an array of GI symptoms. Testing will be normal leading some to once believe that was a psychologic disease. It’s not. But emotional issues can be a trigger for the seizure activity. So can food, infection, and antibiotics. So can metabolic issues. Just like strobe lights, video games, and my son’s room at night nowadays, can induce a seizure, anxiety can trigger irritable bowel.
And my patients are coming in. Always happy to see you, but before you come in there are some things you can do on your own that my patients find informative:
1) Be compliant with your regular meds– control chronic conditions such as low thyroid, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.
2) Particularly if bloated or having looser stools— try a low FODMAP diet
3) Try and get regular exercise and a good night’s sleep.
4) If you do have to come in and see us, it’s safe.
Pay attention to alarm symptoms of weight loss or bleeding. Those need to be evaluated.
