Irritable bowel syndrome: An Underestimated Consequence of Post-Acute COVID-19. A Literature Review

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a significant health issue affecting many individuals globally. The precise mechanisms underlying its development are still being researched, as various factors contribute to its onset, including stress, dysfunction of the gut-brain axis, intestinal hypersensitivity, prior infections, and medications that disrupt gut homeostasis. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a notable increase in IBS cases, prompting investigations into the link between coronavirus infection and the risk of developing post-infectious IBS. Research suggests that stressors such as isolation, fear of mortality, bereavement, financial insecurity, uncertainty about the future, changes in routine, and remote work stress significantly influence this condition’s development. Additionally, the virus can disrupt gut microbiota and trigger the release of pro-inflammatory mediators, potentially resulting in the death of intestinal cells. Medications used during the pandemic, including antibiotics, steroids, and antiviral agents, may also impair gut function, leading to long-term consequences. This complexity presents challenges for modern medicine, highlighting the need for further research to aid those affected by this condition. This paper reviews current insights into the development of post-inflammatory IBS in COVID-19 patients, integrating established knowledge with novel findings from the pandemic.