Do your gut symptoms ever feel so painful you worry something is seriously wrong? In this conversation, we talk about why digestive pain can feel intense, even with issues like trapped wind and constipation, and how the gut’s huge nerve supply plays a role.This clip explores the science of gut pain, including how the intestines sense discomfort differently to our fingertips, and why having around 500 million nerves in the gut can amplify pain signals. We also discuss visceral hypersensitivity, where the gut becomes over-reactive and normal sensations can start to feel painful. I’m exploring with my guest why some gastroenterologists use very low-dose antidepressants for gut symptoms, including SSRIs to influence serotonin, tricyclic antidepressants (often preferred for diarrhea-predominant issues), and SNRIs like Cymbalta for targeting pain, especially when constipation is also present. Throughout, we keep it clear that these medications are not the primary treatment for constipation, but can be part of managing discomfort.
Will Bulsiewicz in conversation with Sarah Ann
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The Great British Veg OutHow to support your gut, energy, and hormones by eating more — not less.
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