By: Dr. Mary Pardee
What is IBS?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition characterized by persistent abdominal pain and changes in stool habits. Recently reclassified as a disorder of gut-brain interaction, IBS is linked to miscommunication along the gut-brain axis. This miscommunication can trigger symptoms, creating a challenging cycle of stress and symptom flare-ups.
Symptoms & Presentation
IBS typically presents with the following symptoms:
Persistent abdominal pain
Altered bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or both)
Bloating
Visceral hypersensitivity
The Role of Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy
Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a clinically proven method to manage IBS symptoms by calming the visceral hypersensitivity of the gut. Unlike mainstream misconceptions, clinical hypnotherapy is more akin to guided meditation with specific suggestions aimed at improving GI function.
How Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Works
The process involves guiding the patient into a deeply relaxed state, where focused attention allows the introduction of therapeutic suggestions. These suggestions target the gut-brain axis, helping to reduce the miscommunication that leads to IBS symptoms.
Why Hypnotherapy for IBS?
Hypnotherapy is effective because it addresses the overreaction of the gut’s sensory nerves. Studies, like the balloon distension study, show that patients with IBS experience more pain from the same physical stimuli compared to non-IBS patients. By calming these overactive responses, hypnotherapy can significantly alleviate symptoms.
Is IBS All in Your Head?
While psychological factors can influence IBS, it’s important to understand that the condition is not "just in your head." IBS has a very real physical component, and hypnotherapy offers a way to manage the psychological aspects that exacerbate the physical symptoms.
Modulating Gut-Brain Communication
IBS is not a sign that something is fundamentally wrong with the gut-brain connection. Instead, it's an issue of sensitivity. The goal of gut-directed hypnotherapy is not to stop this communication but to fine-tune it. It's about teaching the gut-brain axis to correctly gauge what constitutes a true threat, helping to recalibrate the body's pain thresholds and normalize the perception of GI symptoms.
Normalizing GI Sensations
An essential part of IBS management is learning to normalize bodily sensations. Small disruptions, like travel-induced constipation, might feel like a flare-up to someone with IBS. However, it's crucial to understand that a certain level of GI symptoms is normal and does not necessarily indicate a relapse. This understanding comes into play once symptoms are better managed, helping patients distinguish between normal and abnormal sensations.
The Challenge of Hypervigilance
Hypervigilance to bodily sensations is common in IBS, where even minor issues can dominate attention. Gut-directed hypnotherapy helps by first inducing a deeply relaxed state, allowing patients to be more receptive to therapeutic suggestions aimed at symptom improvement.
Addressing Study Variations and Durability of Effect
Different studies have shown varying results regarding the long-term effectiveness of gut-directed hypnotherapy. A meta-analysis from early studies suggested some question marks around long-term durability, particularly in severe refractory IBS cases. However, more recent research, including a study that followed patients for up to five years, shows promising durability, especially in a broader IBS population.
Hypnotherapy Protocols
There are different protocols for gut-directed hypnotherapy, such as daily sessions for six weeks (like Nerva) or weekly in-person sessions supplemented with recordings. While no studies have compared these protocols head-to-head, consistency in practice seems crucial for effectiveness. Listening five or more days a week yields better outcomes, and even slight drops in frequency can significantly impact results.
Testimonials and Real-Life Impact
Nerva has received numerous testimonials highlighting significant quality-of-life improvements. Patients often share how the program has allowed them to engage in activities they previously avoided due to IBS symptoms. This real-world impact is a strong motivator for the team behind Nerva.
Nerva has various programs and they collaborate with researchers to create accessible digital health solutions.
Discount:
Nerva was kind enough to give all of modrn med's readers and listeners 25% off their subscription for gut-directed hypnotherapy with the link below.
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Disclaimer:
The information in this blog is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this blog is for general information purposes only. Modrn med and Dr. Mary Pardee make no representation and assume no responsibility for the accuracy of information contained in or made available through this blog, and such information is subject to change without notice. This blog does not provide medical services, diagnosis or counsel. You are encouraged to confirm any information obtained from or through this email with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this information.
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