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The autonomic nervous system in functional bowel disorders
1Digestive Diseases Research Program, Division of Gastroenterology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada. tougasg@fhs.mcmaster.ca
Summary
The brain-gut axis involves the autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulating gut function and stress responses. Disordered ANS function, including altered vagal and sympathetic activity, is linked to functional gastrointestinal disorders and their symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurogastroenterology
- Autonomic Nervous System Physiology
- Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Background:
- The brain-gut axis integrates neural, immune, and endocrine signals for gut homeostasis.
- The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates gut function and mediates responses to psychological stress.
- Functional gastrointestinal disorders are characterized by symptoms suggesting altered perception and disordered gut function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence linking disordered autonomic function to functional bowel disorders.
- To explore the role of autonomic dysfunction in visceral perception and extraintestinal symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on autonomic function assessments in functional bowel patients.
- Analysis of studies reporting on vagal and sympathetic activity in relation to gastrointestinal motility and symptoms.
Main Results:
- Subgroups of functional bowel patients exhibit disordered autonomic function.
- Decreased vagal outflow or increased sympathetic activity is associated with reduced gut motility.
- Altered autonomic balance can affect visceral perception and contribute to extraintestinal symptoms in conditions like IBS, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia.
Conclusions:
- Autonomic dysfunction is a significant factor in functional gastrointestinal disorders.
- Understanding brain-gut axis communication is crucial for managing these conditions.
- Targeting autonomic pathways may offer therapeutic potential for functional gut disorders.