[Quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome]

The authors have evaluated the quality of life of 120 persons in three equal groups (those with irritable bowel syndrome, those with neurosis but no psychosomatic symptoms and healthy individuals). The Scale of Quality of Life constructed on the basis of the Rotterdam Symptom List, was applied. The authors have also observed the changes that took place in the noted quality of life in the course of therapy. The major conclusion that arises from this study is the following: in the case of irritable bowel syndrome, psychotherapy should be used besides typical pharmacological treatment.