We all are aware of the critical role sleep plays in improving and maintaining good health. But, did you know that there is an intricate relationship between sleep and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?
Research shows that poor sleep has a profound impact on the immune system and inflammation and directly impacts the disease activity in people with IBD. It has also been linked to relapses and IBD complications.
How Are IBD and Sleep Connected? An Overview of the Complex Connection
Sleep and inflammatory bowel disease share a complex and interdependent relationship. While it has not been fully understood yet, several research studies identify poor sleep as a common issue among people with IBD. [ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21830266/ ] Sleep disturbances are more common and severe during the active phase of the disease; about 75% of IBD patients with active disease experience sleep problems. However, they are also present during the inactive phase.
There is also significant research evidence that sleep disturbances and poor quality sleep can worsen IBD symptoms and put patients at an increased risk of flares and complications by negatively impacting the immune functions. The lack of sleep decreases the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the body. It also disrupts the distribution of T-cells to lymph nodes, which then can weaken the immune system, leaving the patient more vulnerable to the disease.
According to Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, sleep issues also reduce the capability of IBD patients to cope with the disease’s symptoms.
All these factors can significantly reduce the quality of life for people with IBD.
Treatment for Sleep Issues Associated with IBD?
Even though sleep disturbances are common among IBD patients, there is no cure available. People often opt for sleep promoting medications to deal with sleep issues and the resulting IBD complications. They may be effective in resolving complaints of insomnia and may also help improve the quality of sleep. But, their regular use is not recommended by healthcare experts due to the chronic nature of IBD, the negative side effects these medications may cause, and their potential to cause dependency.
The non-medication options that you can choose to deal with IBD-related sleep issues include lifestyle changes and therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Conclusion
The link between sleep and health has long been identified. However, researchers are still exploring the connection and uncovering new information. The link between sleep and IBD is a comparatively newer finding, and there is a lot more to discover to develop a comprehensive understanding and devise better solutions. However, the interdependent relationship is known to significantly impact the quality of life of IBD patients.
Talk to your doctor to discuss your options and find the best solution to improve your sleep.
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