The following is a summary of “Age Differences in Core Symptoms and Symptom Relationships in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Network Analysis,” published in the September 2023 issue of Gastroenterology by Yang, et al.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. It often co-occurs with both physical and psychological symptoms. However, the relationships among these symptoms and whether they vary with age remained unclear. Although previous studies have noted age-related differences in IBS prevalence and symptom severity, it was unknown whether specific symptoms and their relationships differ between younger (≤45 years) and older (>45 years) adults with IBS.
For a study, researchers collected symptom data from 355 adults diagnosed with IBS, with an average age of 41.4 years, and predominantly female (86.2%). Network analysis was employed to explore the connections among 28 symptoms and identify the core symptoms that drive the symptom patterns in younger versus older adults with IBS. Three network properties were assessed for both age groups: network structure, edge (connection), and global strength.
In both age groups, fatigue emerged as the most prominent core symptom. Anxiety was identified as a secondary core symptom in younger adults but not in the older age group. Symptoms related to intestinal gas and bloating also substantially influenced both age groups. Overall, the structure and connectivity of symptoms appeared similar, irrespective of age.
The findings from network analysis suggested that addressing fatigue is crucial for managing symptoms in adults with IBS, regardless of age. Managing comorbid anxiety is likely particularly important for younger adults with IBS. Additionally, the Rome V criteria, used to diagnose functional gastrointestinal disorders like IBS, may need to consider the significance of symptoms related to intestinal gas and bloating. Further research with larger and more diverse IBS populations was needed to validate these results.
Source: journals.lww.com/ajg/abstract/2023/09000/age_differences_in_core_symptoms_and_symptom.24.aspx