A Review of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common causes of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.
This disorder results in numerous clinic visits. IBS is a health problem with a high social and economic burden due to the lack of an effective treatment. Its etiology consists of biological, psychological and social factors.
There is increasing evidence that psychotherapy, in particular cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a type of self-management intervention, can significantly improve IBS symptoms and disability compared to
common medical treatment. Changes to cognition rather than mood and changing the negative perception of IBS patients appears to be a particularly important treatment mechanism. In this study we review current and emerging CBT and its efficacy in IBS patients.