The relationship between trauma and IBS
What is trauma?
Let's start by defining what trauma is. Trauma is an emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that can include physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological harm.
It can be a one-time event or it can be prolonged, like in the case of abuse or neglect. Trauma can also be caused by a natural disaster, war, or even a medical procedure or health condition. There is no single line between what is trauma vs what is not trauma for an individual. This can vary between each person, which is why it’s important to look at how the person responds to the event or period of time.
When a person experiences a traumatic event, their brain and body respond in a way that is designed to help them survive the situation. This response, known as the "fight or flight" response, can include physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and muscle tension, as well as emotional and cognitive symptoms such as fear, anxiety, and confusion.
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Types of trauma
There are different types of trauma that can manifest in the body. One of the most common is acute trauma, which is a one-time event like a car accident or a natural disaster. Acute trauma can cause physical symptoms like cuts, broken bones, and bruises, but it can also cause anxiety and/or depression.
Another type of trauma is chronic trauma, which is prolonged exposure to traumatic events like abuse or neglect. This type of trauma can have long-term effects on the body, including physical symptoms like chronic pain, headaches, and stomach problems. It can also cause depression, anxiety, and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Complex trauma is another type of trauma that can be caused by multiple traumatic events, often of an interpersonal nature. This type of trauma can cause both emotional and physical symptoms, such as chronic pain, digestive issues, and sleep problems. It can also lead to difficulties with trust and relationships, and can be associated with a higher risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder.
The last type of trauma is developmental trauma, which occurs during childhood and can affect a person's development and ability to form healthy relationships. This type of trauma can result in physical symptoms like chronic pain and digestive issues, as well as emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, and difficulty with trust and attachment.
Everyone experiences trauma differently and there is not a level of severity that would be considered traumatic. Different levels of severity can still have lasting effects on health and wellbeing.
How does trauma overlap with IBS?
There is a connection between trauma and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can flow in both directions. Trauma can lead to changes in the way the body responds to stress, and IBS is often triggered by stress. People who have experienced trauma may be more likely to develop IBS or to have their symptoms worsen in response to stress. Trauma can also cause changes in the way the brain and gut communicate, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.
There is limited research in this area, but there was a 2014 study showed that incidence of childhood trauma was more prevalent in those with IBS, with the conclusion that trauma may lead to the development of IBS for some. This is likely due to altered gut-brain communication as a result of the trauma. A 2010 study on female vets also showed that IBS cases were more prevalent in those with trauma.
Not only can trauma lead to IBS and IBS symptoms, IBS itself can be traumatic for some leading to more stress and panic around the symptoms themselves.
What are the signs of trauma?
Some signs that someone may be experiencing the effects of trauma include: re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares, avoiding reminders of the trauma, feeling emotionally numb, feeling anxious or irritable, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep patterns. Other side effects of trauma can include isolation, depression, phobias, anxiety, and fear, especially related to new experiences.
It is important to note that everyone experiences trauma differently, and some people may not exhibit any of these symptoms.
Treatment options for trauma
There are several treatment and therapy options for trauma, including:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy helps individuals understand and change their thoughts and behaviors related to the traumatic event.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This therapy uses eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help process traumatic memories.
Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE): This therapy helps individuals confront and overcome their fears related to the traumatic event.
Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT): This therapy is designed specifically for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma and combines elements of CBT and other therapies.
Medications: Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of trauma.
Group therapy: This type of therapy allows individuals to share their experiences and support one another in their healing process.
Creative therapies: Art therapy, music therapy, and other creative therapies can be used to help individuals express and process their traumatic experiences.
It is important to find a therapist who is trained and experienced in treating trauma, and to work together to find the best treatment approach for the individual. Your therapist will personalize your treatment plan and help you find strategies that work best for you.
In terms of IBS, your dietitian may work alongside your therapist to help with managing IBS symptoms and building confidence around how you live your life with IBS. This teamwork approach can be effective in helping you stop the stress-symptom cycle you may be stuck in.
Are you frustrated with your IBS symptoms? Do you desire to be confident in your food choices? Do you want to have a healthier relationship with your body and diet? Are you ready to take control of your IBS?
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