Bel Marra Health – Breaking Health News and Health Information https://www.belmarrahealth.com/ Bel Marra health provides health information and breaking health news that will help you stay informed on the latest health breakthroughs. Fri, 15 Mar 2024 07:54:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/cropped-mstile-310x310-32x32.png Bel Marra Health – Breaking Health News and Health Information https://www.belmarrahealth.com/ 32 32 Three Times Increased Risk of Dementia in Patients with Essential Tremor: Study https://www.belmarrahealth.com/essential-tremor-dementia-risk/ Fri, 15 Mar 2024 07:53:10 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101221 Study found link between essential tremor and risk of dementiaNew research unveiled today, March 6, 2024, suggests that individuals with essential tremor, a condition causing involuntary shaking, might face a higher risk of dementia compared to the general population. This study will be presented at the American Academy of …

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Study found link between essential tremor and risk of dementiaNew research unveiled today, March 6, 2024, suggests that individuals with essential tremor, a condition causing involuntary shaking, might face a higher risk of dementia compared to the general population. This study will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 76th Annual Meeting from April 13 to April 18, 2024, both in Denver and online.

Essential tremor stands as the most prevalent tremor disorder, surpassing even Parkinson’s disease in frequency. Besides trembling in the arms and hands, those affected might also experience involuntary head, jaw, and voice shaking.

Dr. Elan D. Louis, from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and an American Academy of Neurology Fellow, explained that many individuals with essential tremors may only experience mild shaking. He further noted that it could significantly impact some daily activities like writing and eating. He added that their research suggests that along with these tremors, there’s an increased likelihood of developing dementia.

The study observed 222 individuals with essential tremors, averaging 79 years old at the study’s commencement. Cognitive assessments were conducted initially to gauge their cognitive status—whether normal, mildly impaired, or with dementia.

For approximately five years, participants underwent follow-up assessments every 1.5 years. At the study’s onset, 168 individuals had normal cognitive abilities, 35 exhibited mild cognitive impairment, and 19 had dementia.

Throughout the study, 59 participants developed mild cognitive impairment, and 41 developed dementia. By comparing these rates and prevalences to both the general population and individuals with Parkinson’s disease, researchers discovered that the likelihood of developing dementia among participants was three times higher than that of the general population. However, it was lower compared to those with Parkinson’s disease, a group where dementia is more prevalent.

Moreover, during the study period, 27% of participants either had or developed mild cognitive impairment—a rate nearly double that of the general population but less than that observed in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Louis noted that while most individuals with essential tremor won’t develop dementia, their findings underscore the importance for physicians to inform those with essential tremor and their families about the increased risk and potential lifestyle adjustments that may follow this diagnosis.

One limitation of the study was that the comparison data for the general population had been published before the study’s initiation.

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Is Stress Aging You? New Research on How Stress Affects Young Adults https://www.belmarrahealth.com/stress-young-adults-aging-study/ Mon, 11 Mar 2024 10:20:32 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101216 How Stress Affects Young AdultsA recent study suggests that younger adults might feel and appear older on tough days, especially when they sense they have less control over their lives.

Shevaun Neupert, a psychology professor at North Carolina State University, explains that stress tends …

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How Stress Affects Young AdultsA recent study suggests that younger adults might feel and appear older on tough days, especially when they sense they have less control over their lives.

Shevaun Neupert, a psychology professor at North Carolina State University, explains that stress tends to make older adults feel their age or even older than they are. However, little research has focused on this in younger adults, such as those in their teens, 20s, and 30s. Understanding this phenomenon across different age groups could help develop ways to safeguard mental and physical well-being.

The study involved 107 adults aged 18 to 36, with an average age of about 20. They filled out a baseline and more detailed daily surveys for eight days. These surveys aimed to gauge their daily stress levels, their perceived control over their lives, and how old they felt and looked each day.

The main finding was that on days when participants felt more stressed than usual, they also felt and looked older. This effect only occurred when they also felt they had less control over their lives than usual.

Crucially, the levels of stress and control were compared to each participant’s usual levels. Even if someone reported relatively low stress, the effect was observed if it was higher than their norm. Similarly, the effect still showed if someone felt they still had a fair amount of control, but less than usual.

Neupert highlights that this phenomenon isn’t limited to older adults; it also affects young people. Moreover, chronic stress can have harmful effects over time, and since younger generations are experiencing historically high-stress levels, it’s crucial to monitor their stress-related physical and mental health closely.

Understanding how stress impacts perceptions of age in young adults is essential for developing strategies to support their well-being as they transition into adulthood.

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Study Links Abdominal Fat Distribution to Cognitive Decline in Men: Insights into Alzheimer’s Disease Risk https://www.belmarrahealth.com/abdominal-fat-alzheimers-study/ Thu, 29 Feb 2024 07:11:16 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101209 Abdominal Fat Linked with Cognitive Decline in MenResearchers at Rutgers Health have discovered that abdominal fat may have a more significant impact on brain health and cognition in middle-aged men at high risk of Alzheimer’s disease compared to women.

A study published in the journal Obesity, led …

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Abdominal Fat Linked with Cognitive Decline in MenResearchers at Rutgers Health have discovered that abdominal fat may have a more significant impact on brain health and cognition in middle-aged men at high risk of Alzheimer’s disease compared to women.

A study published in the journal Obesity, led by Michal Schnaider Beeri from Rutgers Brain Health Institute, examined the relationship between abdominal fat and brain health in middle-aged individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s disease. The study, which involved 204 healthy middle-aged individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s, used MRI to measure fat in the pancreas, liver, and abdomen.

According to Beeri, higher levels of pancreatic fat in middle-aged men at high risk of Alzheimer’s disease were associated with lower cognitive function and smaller brain volumes. However, this association was not observed in women, indicating a potential sex-specific link between abdominal fat and brain health.

Obesity is known to increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, but the relationship differs between men and women. The study emphasizes the importance of considering sex differences when studying the impact of fat distribution on brain aging and cognition.

Furthermore, the study challenges the conventional use of body mass index (BMI) as the primary measure of obesity-related cognitive risks. According to the researchers, BMI does not adequately represent fat distribution and fails to account for sex differences.

Sapir Golan Shekhtman, a Ph.D. student involved in the study, stated that the correlations between abdominal fat and cognitive function were stronger than those between BMI and cognition. This suggests that abdominal fat, rather than BMI, could be a more significant risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia.

The study’s findings open the door for specific interventions and deeper investigation into various methods for reducing the influence of abdominal fat on brain health. Understanding these relationships could lead to more effective strategies for preventing cognitive decline and dementia in at-risk individuals.

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People with a History of Herpes Infection Show Twice the Rate of Dementia: Study https://www.belmarrahealth.com/herpes-dementia-connection-study/ Tue, 27 Feb 2024 07:14:23 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101206 Herpes Infection linked with Double Dementia RiskA recent study from Uppsala University suggests that people who have experienced the herpes virus at some point might face double the risk of developing dementia compared to those who haven’t had the infection. This study, which involved 1,000 70-year-olds …

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Herpes Infection linked with Double Dementia RiskA recent study from Uppsala University suggests that people who have experienced the herpes virus at some point might face double the risk of developing dementia compared to those who haven’t had the infection. This study, which involved 1,000 70-year-olds from Uppsala over 15 years, reinforces previous findings regarding the potential link between herpes and dementia.

Published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, the research revealed that individuals who had contracted the herpes simplex virus during their lives were twice as likely to develop dementia compared to those who hadn’t. The herpes simplex virus is widespread, with up to 80 percent of adults in Sweden possibly carrying it. Although the infection persists throughout life, its symptoms may vary over time, and some individuals may never experience any symptoms.

Erika Vestin, a medical student at Uppsala University, highlighted the significance of this study, emphasizing that the participants were of similar age, enhancing the reliability of the results by minimizing the influence of age-related factors on dementia development.

Dementia affects around 55 million people globally, with advanced age and the presence of the apolipoprotein ε4 risk gene already established as risk factors. Previous research had explored the potential connection between the herpes simplex virus and dementia, a link now substantiated by this study.

Vestin expressed excitement about the confirmation of previous findings, noting a growing body of evidence implicating the herpes simplex virus as a dementia risk factor. The study’s findings underscore the importance of investigating whether existing antiviral medications for herpes could mitigate dementia risk and the potential for developing new vaccines.

According to Vestin, these results may propel dementia research towards early intervention using commonly available antiviral drugs or even preventive measures to stave off the disease. This study sheds light on the importance of further exploration into the relationship between herpes and dementia, potentially offering avenues for more effective management and prevention strategies.

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Physical Activity Alone Won’t Counteract Cardiovascular Disease Risks of Sugary Drinks: Study https://www.belmarrahealth.com/sugary-drinks-exercise-cardiovascular-disease-study/ Fri, 16 Feb 2024 06:54:11 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101195 Doing only physical activity is not enough counter the heart risksA recent study suggests that relying solely on physical activity may not be enough to counter the heart risks associated with sugary drinks like sodas and fruit cocktails.

Researchers from Canada discovered that even if people meet the recommended 150 …

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Doing only physical activity is not enough counter the heart risksA recent study suggests that relying solely on physical activity may not be enough to counter the heart risks associated with sugary drinks like sodas and fruit cocktails.

Researchers from Canada discovered that even if people meet the recommended 150 minutes of weekly physical activity, it may not fully offset the negative effects of consuming sugar-sweetened beverages on cardiovascular health.

Jean-Philippe Drouin-Chartier, an assistant professor from Université Laval’s Faculty of Pharmacy in Quebec, explained that physical activity has the potential to reduce the risk of heart issues associated with sugary drinks by approximately fifty percent. Still, it doesn’t entirely eliminate the risk.

The study, which looked at data from approximately 100,000 adults over three decades, found that those who drank sugary beverages more than twice a week had a heightened risk of heart disease, regardless of how much exercise they did.

Even worse, the risk increased for those who consumed these drinks daily.

Drouin-Chartier pointed out that the sugary beverages in the study included sodas, lemonades, and fruit cocktails. Although the research didn’t specifically examine energy drinks, they typically contain large amounts of sugar.

Interestingly, artificially sweetened drinks did not show the same association with heart disease risk.

Drouin-Chartier advised that transitioning from sugary beverages to diet alternatives is a positive move because it decreases sugar consumption. However, he emphasized that water remains the healthiest option.

Lead study author Lorena Pacheco, a research scientist from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, emphasized that these findings support the importance of limiting sugary beverage intake and promoting regular physical activity.

The study was recently published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, providing additional evidence for public health efforts to discourage excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks while encouraging people to maintain a healthy level of physical activity.

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Depression and Body Temperature: Major Study Reveals Potential Connection https://www.belmarrahealth.com/depression-body-temperature-study/ Mon, 12 Feb 2024 07:56:45 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101188 Connection between Depression and Body TemperatureIn a recent study conducted by researchers, it was discovered that individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) often have higher body temperatures. This finding suggests potential treatments that could help manage this aspect and potentially ease the challenging symptoms …

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Connection between Depression and Body TemperatureIn a recent study conducted by researchers, it was discovered that individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) often have higher body temperatures. This finding suggests potential treatments that could help manage this aspect and potentially ease the challenging symptoms associated with depression.

Researchers from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) examined data collected from over 20,000 individuals across a span of seven months and from 106 different countries. By analyzing self-reported temperature data from 20,863 individuals and wearable sensor data from 21,064 people, they gathered a total of 559,664 body temperature readings. Each participant provided an average of 27 temperature readings per day.

Concurrently, mental health assessments were carried out monthly using a widely used depression measure known as the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), which helps gauge the severity of depression symptoms.

According to Ashley Mason, the study’s lead author and an associate professor of psychiatry at UC, this research is the largest of its kind to explore the connection between body temperature and depressive symptoms across a diverse sample.

Smaller sample sizes and controlled environments have limited previous studies. Analyzing real-world data is crucial for understanding how body temperature relates to MDD and for developing new treatment approaches.

The study revealed that higher body temperatures were associated with more severe depression symptoms, regardless of factors such as age and gender. Additionally, an increase in symptom severity corresponded to higher body temperatures. Although there was a trend suggesting that higher depression scores were linked to less fluctuation in temperature over 24 hours, this finding was not statistically significant.

Potential treatments might involve raising body temperature, such as through activities like hot yoga and sauna sessions, which could trigger the body’s cooling mechanisms.

Despite the increasing rates of depression globally, effective treatment remains complex due to its multifactorial nature. While the exact relationship between body temperature and depression is still unclear, the researchers believe their findings support further exploration of innovative thermoregulatory therapies.

The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, underscores the importance of understanding the biological mechanisms underlying depression and elevated body temperature, paving the way for more targeted treatments in the future.

Ashley Mason expressed enthusiasm about the potential of these findings, particularly in light of the rising rates of depression in the United States.

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Study Explores the Connection Between Playing Instruments and Cognitive Well-Being in Seniors https://www.belmarrahealth.com/study-senior-brain-health-music/ Mon, 05 Feb 2024 06:59:11 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101181 Connection Between Playing Instruments and Cognitive Well-BeingAccording to a recent study conducted by experts at the University of Exeter, engaging in music might be good for your brain health as you age.

The researchers who are part of the PROTECT study looked at data from over …

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Connection Between Playing Instruments and Cognitive Well-BeingAccording to a recent study conducted by experts at the University of Exeter, engaging in music might be good for your brain health as you age.

The researchers who are part of the PROTECT study looked at data from over a thousand individuals aged 40 and older. The PROTECT study is an online research effort which was used to study this age group. The goal was to understand how playing a musical instrument or singing in a choir affects brain health. The PROTECT study, which has been ongoing for a decade and has over 25,000 participants, served as a valuable source of information.

The team looked at participants’ musical experiences and lifetime exposure to music. They also considered the results of cognitive tests to determine if being musically inclined contributes to maintaining a sharp mind as people age. The findings of their work are presented in a paper which covers the relationship between cognitive trajectories and playing a musical instrument based on the analysis of a UK-based group of seniors. The paper was published in a reputed journal, the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

The study discovered that playing a musical instrument, especially the piano, is associated with better memory and improved ability to solve complex tasks, also known as executive function. Moreover, the research suggests that singing is also linked to improved brain health, although being part of a choir or group may contribute to this positive effect.

Professor Anne Corbett, a specialist in Dementia Research who works at the University of Exeter, mentioned that several studies have examined how music affects brain health. She stated that their PROTECT study provided a distinctive chance to investigate the connection between cognitive performance and music in a large group of older adults. She suggested that being musical might serve as a means to tap into the brain’s agility and resilience, commonly mentioned as cognitive reserve.

While there is a need for more research to delve deeper into this connection, the findings indicate that providing more musical education could be a valuable part of protecting brain health through public health initiatives. Encouraging older adults to return to music in later life is also suggested. Professor Corbett emphasized that evidence supports the benefits of music group activities for individuals with dementia, proposing an extension of such approaches to promote healthy aging.

Stuart Douglas, a 78-year-old accordion player from Cornwall, shared his experience. He has played the accordion regularly since childhood. He plays it regularly with the Cornish Division of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society and also with the Cober Valley Accordion Band. Stuart believes that his continuing with music into his senior years has played an important role in maintaining his brain health.

The PROTECT study is entirely conducted online and welcomes new participants aged 40 and over. For more information, you can visit http://www.protectstudy.org.uk.

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New Study: Hearing Loss Hits Harder in Rural Areas and Among Men https://www.belmarrahealth.com/study-hearing-loss-urban-rural/ Thu, 01 Feb 2024 07:07:24 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101169 Hearing Loss Hits Harder in Rural Areas and Among MenA new study on hearing loss was published in The Lancet Regional Health-Americas journal. This study was led by NORC, a research organization at the University of Chicago. It reveals that approximately 37.9 million Americans experience hearing loss. Interestingly, the …

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Hearing Loss Hits Harder in Rural Areas and Among MenA new study on hearing loss was published in The Lancet Regional Health-Americas journal. This study was led by NORC, a research organization at the University of Chicago. It reveals that approximately 37.9 million Americans experience hearing loss. Interestingly, the study finds that hearing loss is more prevalent in rural areas than urban settings and is more common among men than women.

Unlike previous studies, this research delves into hearing loss rates at the county and state levels, specifically focusing on the year 2019 and considering individuals with hearing impairment in both ears. While the study cannot pinpoint the exact reasons for this geographic discrepancy, experts in hearing loss suggest two crucial factors: the loudness of noises and the frequency of exposure to them.

Nicholas Reed is an audiologist and an assistant professor of epidemiology at Johns Hopkins University. He notes that individuals in bustling urban environments, such as subway commuters, might endure six to eight hours before facing a risk of hearing loss. In contrast, those engaged in activities like hunting, where ear protection is often neglected, can experience hearing damage after just a few trigger pulls.

Experts emphasize the need for improved access to hearing screenings and specialists in rural areas, where many jobs involve the use of loud machinery. Leisure activities popular in rural regions, such as woodworking, hunting, or riding all-terrain vehicles, also contribute to an increased risk of hearing impairment.

The study further highlights that men face a higher risk of hearing loss than women, with the risk beginning at age 35. This aligns with earlier estimations, and the highest rates are observed among non-Hispanic white individuals and those aged 65 and older.

David Rein is the director of NORC’s public health analytics program. He is the lead author of this study and emphasizes that age is the primary risk factor for hearing loss.

Melanie Buhr-Lawler is a clinical professor and an audiologist from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She was not involved in the study but emphasized the unique challenges faced by individuals in rural areas, where both work-related and leisure activities expose them to higher noise levels. She recounts her experience distributing earplugs at a tractor pull in rural Wisconsin as part of efforts to raise awareness about hearing health.

The study, funded by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sheds light on the importance of addressing hearing health disparities, especially in rural communities, and underscores the significance of protective measures in noisy environments.

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Study Finds: Moderate Impacts in Daily Physical Activities Preserve Bone Density in Older Adults https://www.belmarrahealth.com/study-physical-activity-bone-loss-elderly/ Mon, 29 Jan 2024 06:52:51 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101165 Physical Activities Preserve Bone Density in Older AdultsA recent study at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland discovered that engaging in a year-long exercise program can help older adults (aged 70-85) maintain or even slightly improve the structural properties of their femoral neck despite a decrease in …

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Physical Activities Preserve Bone Density in Older AdultsA recent study at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland discovered that engaging in a year-long exercise program can help older adults (aged 70-85) maintain or even slightly improve the structural properties of their femoral neck despite a decrease in bone mineral density. The participants, who were previously physically inactive, underwent a multicomponent exercise training intervention.

Interestingly, those who included more moderate and high-intensity activities in their routines experienced less bone density decline than those with lower activity levels or intensity. Postdoctoral Researcher Tiina Savikangas emphasizes the significance of even short bursts of activity for bone health, noting that impacts comparable to brisk walking contribute to better preservation of bone mineral density.

As we age, both the amount and intensity of physical activity tend to decrease, leading to a decline in bone health. However, this study highlights the importance of structured exercises and everyday activities in maintaining bone health. The findings suggest that incorporating bone-loading impact activities into daily routines, like brisk walks or stair climbing, can be beneficial.

Postdoctoral Researcher Tuuli Suominen suggests practical ways to include high-intensity activity in daily life, such as performing jumping-like impacts without actual jumping—by lifting up on tiptoes and then dropping down onto the heels. This simple addition to routine activities can contribute to better bone health, especially in the femoral neck, which is susceptible to fall-related fractures.

Preventing hip fractures involves preserving bone mineral density at the femoral neck and reducing the risk of falls. The study suggests that increasing daily physical activity, particularly in older individuals who are not regular exercisers, may enhance bone health and prevent fractures by improving functional capacity and muscle strength. Strong muscles lower the risk of falls and allow bones to be loaded more efficiently.

The research is part of the PASSWORD study conducted by the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences and Gerontology Research Centre at the University of Jyväskylä between 2017 and 2020. Involving 299 participants aged 70 to 85 from Jyväskylä, the study focused on individuals who were less active than recommended before the intervention.

All participants engaged in progressive muscle strength, endurance, balance, and flexibility training, with half also participating in a computer training program focused on information processing skills. Accelerometers measured the amount and intensity of physical activity before and after six months of training, while dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry assessed femoral neck bone density and structural properties before and after the one-year exercise program.

The research findings are published in the journal Bone.

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New Research Uncovers Potential Link Between IBS Patient, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome https://www.belmarrahealth.com/ibs-fibromyalgia-cfs-link/ Fri, 12 Jan 2024 09:35:39 +0000 https://www.belmarrahealth.com/?p=101158 Link Between IBS Patient, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue SyndromeScientists at the University of Missouri School of Medicine have made an important discovery connecting irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to somatic disorders like chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

IBS is a common disorder of the stomach and intestines. It affects …

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Link Between IBS Patient, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue SyndromeScientists at the University of Missouri School of Medicine have made an important discovery connecting irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to somatic disorders like chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

IBS is a common disorder of the stomach and intestines. It affects about 15 percent of the overall population. Its effects include abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, bloating and gas. The study covered over 1.2 million hospitalizations of IBS patients from 4,000 U.S. hospitals over three years.

It revealed that those with IBS were five times more likely to have the chronic musculoskeletal pain disorder fibromyalgia compared to adults without IBS. The chances of IBS patients having chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) were also significant when compared to those without IBS. CFS causes sleep disturbances, severe fatigue and cognitive dysfunction.

Dr. Zahid Ijaz Tarar, a fellow in the division of gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, who led the research, emphasized the importance of identifying and treating somatic disorders like chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. in IBS patients to enhance their quality of life. He highlighted the value of early detection of these conditions to guide treatment strategies, including seeking input from other specialties like rheumatology and psychiatry, ultimately improving overall health outcomes for IBS patients.

These new findings build upon earlier research that established a connection between IBS and mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

Dr. Yezaz Ghouri, assistant professor of clinical medicine and gastroenterology and the study’s senior author, noted that gastrointestinal infections and the use of antibiotics often triggered the high occurrence of these physical ailments following IBS. This suggests a possible role of an imbalance of gut bacteria and a permeable gut that allows toxins to leak into the bloodstream in their development.

Highlighting the broader implications, Dr. Ghouri emphasized that issues in the gut can be linked to problems elsewhere in the body and mind. As knowledge about how gut health affects overall health grows, clinicians are encouraged to actively search for somatic comorbidities and manage them in IBS patients.

The study was recently published in Biomedicines.

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