UCLA researchers describe new form of irritable bowel syndrome

This study expands our understanding a little bit about what might cause IBS," Spiegel said. "It's such a common condition, and there may be different flavors. We've now added a new flavor to the menu — a new risk factor for developing IBS. By learning more, we might be able to expand the therapies we can use on these patients."   The study was funded by Shire Pharmaceuticals.   "Our findings support the evolving paradigm of diverticular disease as a chronic illness — not merely an acute condition marked by abrupt complications. Far from a self-limited episode, acute diverticulitis may become a chronic disorder in some patients," the study states. "Diverticulitis is correlated with not only chronic IBS symptoms, but also long-term emotional distress beyond the event itself. Awareness of this possible risk is important because persistent, untreated gastrointestinal symptoms and comorbid depression may worsen outcome and increase the economic burden of an already prevalent disease."   For more news, visit the UCLA Newsroom and follow us on Twitter.
Source: UCLA Newsroom: Health Sciences - Category: Universities & Medical Training Source Type: news