Which Is the Cause of the Other: Does the Colon Cause Anxiety and Stress, or Is It the Other Way Around?

 

Which Is the Cause of the Other:

Does the Colon Cause Anxiety and Stress, or Is It the Other Way Around?

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Brothers and sisters, peace be upon you and the mercy and blessings of Allah.

I am Dr. Soumia. In this article, we raise an important question that has two opposing opinions. The first group says: which one is responsible for causing the other? Is irritable bowel syndrome responsible for causing anxiety and stress, or are anxiety and stress responsible for causing irritable bowel syndrome?

 

Here, we will give you clear points to help you understand who is responsible for causing the other.

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Who Controls the Human Body?

The first question is: who controls the human body?
Is it the organs that control the brain and nerves, or are the nerves the ones that control the organs?

It is obvious that the brain and the nervous system are the ones that control the organs. The human body functions under the regulation of both the hormonal system and the nervous system. Therefore, the nerves are responsible for controlling the organs, including the heart, liver, stomach, colon, eyes, and ears. The nervous system is the primary controller of these organs.

The Relationship Between the Colon and Anxiety

When a person suffers from bloating and colon problems, and then says that the colon caused anxiety and stress, it is true that bloating can cause anxiety and stress. However, the real question is: who caused the bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or gas in the colon in the first place?

Since the nerves control the colon, the stomach, and all organs, they are the ones that cause these symptoms. These symptoms then worsen anxiety and stress. In this case, they are not the main cause, but rather a secondary, contributing, and reinforcing factor for anxiety and stress.

The Real Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

For a person who has irritable bowel syndrome, the primary cause is anxiety and stress. Anxiety and stress come from the brain, and the brain is influenced by negative memories, past traumas, and painful experiences stored in memory.

When these thoughts resurface and are repeatedly recalled and overthought, they create continuous pressure on the nervous system, especially the vagus nerve. This pressure then affects the stomach and the colon, leading to colon irritation, stomach irritation, increased stomach acidity, and gastroesophageal reflux. This happens due to increased acid secretion resulting from the effect on the vagus nerve.

That is why, in many cases, when people undergo an endoscopy, the stomach appears red and inflamed. This inflammation is not necessarily caused by food. While food can cause inflammation, in people who suffer from anxiety and stress, this inflammation is caused by continuous pressure, continuous secretions, and constant stimulation of the stomach wall. This continuous stimulation leads to increased blood flow in the inner lining of the stomach, which is why it often appears inflamed and reddened during endoscopy.

Evidence Supporting This Theory

Another point that confirms the theory that the nervous system is responsible for causing irritable bowel syndrome, and not the other way around, is that patients who are treated for irritable bowel syndrome with psychiatric medications and calming drugs often experience relief. Their colon symptoms disappear, including constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. This clearly proves that anxiety and stress are the primary cause.

Some people believe that following a strict diet is what cures irritable bowel syndrome. Let me give you a clear example: the strongest dietary system is fasting. Many people with irritable bowel syndrome continue to suffer even while fasting. Despite abstaining from food and drink and having an empty stomach, the symptoms persist. This proves that food is not the main or primary cause of irritable bowel syndrome.

The Final Conclusion

We know that unhealthy food can contribute to colon disorders, but the core question remains: which affects the other? Does irritable bowel syndrome cause anxiety and stress, or do anxiety and stress cause irritable bowel syndrome?

All these conclusions lead to one inevitable result: irritable bowel syndrome is not the cause of anxiety and stress. Rather, anxiety and stress are what lead to colon spasms, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach disorders, vomiting, and similar conditions.

This is because the nervous system is responsible for controlling the organs, not the organs controlling the nervous system. While some organs may have a secondary and indirect effect on the nervous system in certain cases, this does not change the general rule.

Therefore, the belief that a healthy diet alone cures irritable bowel syndrome is a false theory. Accept this from me.

I am Dr. Soumia.
Peace be upon you and the mercy and blessings of Allah.