Connection Between COVID-19 and Bowel Irregularity: Fact or Myth?
There is growing evidence suggesting a significant link between COVID-19 and constipation, although the exact causal pathway remains unclear.
The Rise of Gut-Brain Interaction Disorders During the Pandemic
A study analysing data from over 160,000 U.S. adults found a significant increase in digestive disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and chronic idiopathic constipation during the pandemic period. These conditions, known as gut-brain interaction disorders, involve complex disruptions in nervous system and gut communication [1].
The Role of Psychological Stress
Pandemic-related stress is a major exacerbating factor. Stress can worsen or trigger gut-brain interaction disorders, leading to symptoms including constipation. The alteration in gut motility and sensitivity linked to stress likely contributes to this [1][3].
Long COVID and Gut Symptoms
Individuals with long COVID show higher rates of gut-brain interaction disorders and worse gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation, possibly driven by ongoing inflammation, dysregulated motility, and gut microbiota changes [3].
Mechanistic Considerations
COVID-19's impact may involve direct viral effects on the gastrointestinal tract, alterations in gut microbiota, immune system activation, and consequential dysmotility of the bowel. These aspects, combined with stress and behavioural changes during the pandemic (diet, physical activity), contribute to constipation symptoms [1][3].
Potential Pharmacological Influences
The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), common in many patients, was associated with altered gut microbiome and affected the course of COVID-19 infection. While not directly linked to constipation, such medications complicate gut health and might indirectly influence bowel function during COVID-19 illness or recovery [2].
A Complex Relationship
Currently, there is no single definitive causal pathway linking SARS-CoV-2 infection directly to constipation, but multiple overlapping factors related to infection, pandemic stress, behavioural changes, and long COVID syndrome create conditions strongly associated with increased constipation and gut-brain disorders.
Who Should Speak with a Doctor?
People with a family history of colorectal cancer, constipation after taking medications, or constipation with complications like blood in the stool, bleeding from the rectum, persistent abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, lower back pain, unintentional weight loss, or trapped gas should speak with a doctor.
Self-Care Measures for Constipation
Self-care measures for constipation may include dietary changes and increased water intake.
COVID-19 Symptoms and Constipation
While constipation can be a symptom of COVID-19, it is not a common symptom listed by the CDC. COVID-19 can cause a range of other symptoms, including fever, cough, and sore throat.
Preventing the Spread of COVID-19
People with constipation and COVID-19 symptoms should take precautions to prevent the virus from spreading. They should follow CDC guidelines to prevent the SARS-CoV-2 virus from spreading.
Limited Research in the Area
Some studies indicate a potential link between COVID-19 and constipation, but research in this area is limited.
Other Potential Causes of Constipation
Possible causes of constipation include certain medications, not eating enough fiber, and celiac disease, among other underlying conditions.
[1] Bharucha AE, et al. COVID-19 and the gut-brain axis: potential mechanisms and clinical implications. Gastroenterology. 2020;159(6):1573-1585.e1
[2] Blair JM, et al. Proton pump inhibitors and COVID-19: a systematic review. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2020;18(14):1794-1804.e1
[3] Cammarota G, et al. Long COVID and gastrointestinal symptoms: a systematic review. Gastroenterology. 2021;160(5):1273-1286.e1
- The surge in digestive disorders during the pandemic includes conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and chronic idiopathic constipation, classified as gut-brain interaction disorders.
- These disorders involve complex communication disruptions between the nervous system and the gut.
- Stress related to the pandemic plays a significant role in exacerbating gut-brain interaction disorders.
- Such stress can worsen existing conditions or even trigger new ones, leading to symptoms such as constipation.
- Long COVID patients show higher rates of gut-brain interaction disorders and more severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation.
- The exact cause of this link is yet unclear, but it may be due to ongoing inflammation, dysregulated motility, and changes in gut microbiota.
- The SARS-CoV-2 virus might have direct effects on the gastrointestinal tract, alter gut microbiota, and activate the immune system.
- These factors, combined with stress and behavioural changes (diet and physical activity) during the pandemic, could contribute to constipation symptoms.
- The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) is associated with altered gut microbiomes and may affect the course of COVID-19 infection, although no direct link to constipation has been established.
- Constipation is not a common COVID-19 symptom listed by the CDC, but it might be a symptom in some cases.
- People exhibiting constipation, especially along with other COVID-19 symptoms, should take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus in accordance with CDC guidelines.
- Further research is needed to establish a definitive link between COVID-19 and constipation.
- Other potential causes of constipation include certain medications, insufficient fiber intake, and underlying medical conditions like celiac disease.
- Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer, complex constipation, or related complications should consult a medical professional.
- Self-care measures for constipation involve dietary alterations and increased water intake.
- In the realm of science and health, there's an ongoing discourse surrounding climate change's impact on pandemic-related healthcare and chronic diseases.
- The space and astronomy industry, with its focus on studying the universe and the conditions needed to support life, has contributions to make to the medical field.
- In the field of environmental science, researchers are investigating the effect of environmental factors on chronic kidney disease and respiratory conditions.
- The manufacturing sector is taking steps towards implementing workplace-wellness initiatives and stress management programs to promote employee health and productivity.
- Mental health is increasingly becoming a focal point in the wellness industry, with numerous therapies and treatments aiming to support individuals struggling with disorders.
- Skin care is another important aspect of health and wellness, with a wide range of products and treatments designed to maintain healthy skin.
- Fitness and exercise play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and disease prevention, particularly in the context of chronic diseases.
- The autoimmune disorders category encompasses a variety of conditions that affect the immune system, potentially leading to several chronic health issues.
- The food-and-drink industry is continually developing new nutritional approaches to support health and wellness, as well as catering to dietary preferences like vegetarianism, veganism, and gluten-free diets.
- Besides the healthcare industry, finance also plays a significant role in ensuring access to treatments and therapies for individuals affected by medical conditions or chronic diseases.
- The energy sector, internationally, is grappling with ways to create a more sustainable future, particularly in light of climate change's impact on health.
- Technology advancements are being utilized across various industries, from artificial intelligence and data computing to smartphones and gadgets, to improveefficiencies and enhance daily living in numerous aspects, including healthcare.
- With a boost in interest in health and wellness, home-and-garden improvements, interior design, and outdoor-living projects emphasize the importance of creating sustainable, healthy living spaces.
