Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2022 Dec;51(4):867-883.doi: 10.1016/j.gtc.2022.07.012.

Christina H Jagielski ¹, Kimberly N Harer ²

Author information

¹Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan/Michigan Medicine, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, 3912, SPC 5362, Ann Arbor 48109 - 5362, USA. Electronic address: cjagiels@med.umich.edu.

²Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan/Michigan Medicine, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, 3912, SPC 5362, Ann Arbor 48109 - 5362, USA.

Abstract

Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) complaints report high rates of previous psychological trauma such as physical, emotional abuse and neglect, sexual trauma, and other traumatic experiences. History of trauma is considered a risk factor for the development of disorders of gut-brain interaction, including irritable bowel syndrome. This article discusses key points for providers in understanding how various aspects of trauma can affect patients' physical and mental health and medical interactions, as well as trauma-informed strategies providers can use to increase patient comfort, improve communication, and improve effectiveness of treatment.