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Association Between Stress Management Interventions and Symptom Severity in Adults With Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Saudi Arabia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychological stress is a major contributing factor to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a widespread functional gastrointestinal disorder. Consequently, understanding the relationship between stress management strategies and the severity of IBS symptoms is crucial. AIM: This study sought to assess the association between stress management interventions and symptom severity among adults with IBS in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, it investigated the associations between IBS, demographic data, lifestyle habits, and perceived stress levels. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving adults aged 18 and older in Saudi Arabia who had a clinical diagnosis of IBS. Participants completed a validated, bilingual web-based survey that incorporated the Rome IV diagnostic criteria, the IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Statistical significance for both descriptive and inferential analyses was established at p < 0.05. RESULTS: The study included 517 participants, of whom 24% utilized stress management techniques. The most prevalent methods were deep breathing (66.9%), meditation (50.8%), and yoga (30.6%). Comparative analysis showed significantly lower symptom severity scores among those practicing stress management, specifically regarding the frequency of abdominal pain (p = 0.010), abdominal distension (p < 0.002), satisfaction with bowel habits (p < 0.001), and interference with daily activities (p = 0.007). Analysis indicated that individuals engaging in stress management reported fewer severe symptoms and lower perceived stress, whereas high stress levels were significantly more common among non-practitioners (p = 0.007). Gender and lifestyle choices were also significantly linked to IBS burden. CONCLUSION: The use of stress management protocols is associated with reduced symptom severity and lower perceived stress in IBS patients. These results advocate for the integration of stress reduction techniques into comprehensive IBS care plans.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.102466