Other pain syndromes Flashcards
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
IBS is a chronic condition characterized by abdominal pain and bowel dysfunction, including increased stool frequency, abnormal stool form, and/or abnormal stool passage. Pain is often relieved by defecation.
How common is IBS, and who does it affect most?
IBS occurs in about 17% of the adult population in the UK, with a higher prevalence in females (ratio of 2-2.5:1). The usual age of onset is 30-50 years.
What are the possible causes of IBS?
The causes of IBS are multifaceted, involving inflammatory, genetic, immune, psychological, and dietary factors. Altered gut microbiota may also play a role, affecting food interactions and internal signaling mechanisms.
What are some pathophysiological mechanisms behind IBS pain?
IBS pain may be caused by increased gut motility, mucosal inflammation, or dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system. Research shows altered gut reactivity in IBS patients compared to healthy populations.
What conditions are often comorbid with IBS?
IBS is frequently associated with fibromyalgia and psychiatric syndromes like somatisation and hypochondriasis
How is IBS treated?
Treatments aim to decrease symptom severity and improve quality of life. Pharmacological therapy, lifestyle and dietary modifications, and emerging microbiome-targeted treatments are used, though evidence of efficacy varies.
What is Burning mouth syndrome (BMS)?
BMS is defined as an intraoral burning or dysaesthetic sensation that occurs daily for more than two hours over at least three months without clinically evident causative lesions. The pain is bilateral and often affects the oral and tongue mucosa.
What are common symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS)
Symptoms include burning pain in the mouth, disturbances in taste, sensations of dryness despite normal saliva secretion, and pain that worsens throughout the day but does not disturb sleep.
Who is most affected by Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS)
BMS is more common in women than men (ratio 7:2.5), particularly in menopausal women, with prevalence increasing with age
What are the potential causes of BMS
The exact cause of BMS is unknown, but it may involve central and peripheral mechanisms. Psychological factors are also thought to play a role, with BMS classified as primary (idiopathic) or secondary (linked to local, systemic, or psychological causes).
What is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
TMD is a group of musculoskeletal conditions involving the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), masticatory muscles, and associated tissues. It is a common cause of pain in the mouth and face, and it may lead to chronic pain.
What are the common symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)?
Symptoms include pain in the TMJ or masticatory muscles, clicking or popping of the TMJ, headache in the temporal region, otalgia (ear pain), and tinnitus in the absence of ear disease.
What conditions are often comorbid with TMD
TMD is often comorbid with chronic pain conditions like migraine and fibromyalgia, as well as bruxism, depression, IBS, and chronic fatigue.
What are the proposed causes and pathophysiology of TMD?
The cause of TMD is multifactorial and biopsychosocial, involving initiating factors (e.g., trauma), predisposing factors (e.g., genetics), and perpetuating factors (e.g., failed treatment). Central sensitization and psychosocial factors are also implicated.
What genetic factors are linked to TMD?
Women with an estrogen receptor polymorphism have increased odds of developing TMD. Genetic predisposition may contribute to susceptibility.
