A patient’s story
George, 34, has struggled with chronic bloating, erratic bowel habits, and unexplained abdominal pain for years. Despite multiple tests, no clear cause was found.
After consulting a neurogastroenterologist, he discovered that his gut symptoms were closely linked to nervous system function, not just diet or infection. With the right guidance, he learned how to regulate gut-brain signals, manage stress, and restore digestive balance.
What is Neurogastroenterology?
Neurogastroenterology is a specialized field focusing on the interaction between the brain and the gut. It studies how the nervous system controls digestion, motility, and sensation in the gastrointestinal tract. Disorders in this system can cause:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Functional dyspepsia
Gastroparesis
Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
By understanding the gut-brain axis, neurogastroenterologists can pinpoint causes of functional GI disorders that standard tests might miss.
Common Symptoms Addressed
Bloating and distension
Abdominal pain without structural cause
Nausea and early satiety
Altered bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating patterns)
Visceral hypersensitivity (heightened gut sensation)
How Neurogastroenterology Works
1. Diagnosis
Detailed patient history: Symptom patterns, triggers, stress factors
Motility testing: Measures how food moves through the GI tract
Visceral sensitivity tests: Evaluates pain perception in the gut
Breath tests: For SIBO or carbohydrate malabsorption
Endoscopic assessment: When needed to rule out structural issues
2. Treatment Approaches
Neurogastroenterology treatment targets both nerve signalling and gut function:
Dietary management: Low FODMAP, fibre adjustment, meal timing
Medications: Prokinetics, neuromodulators, or gut-specific pain modulators
Behavioural therapy: CBT, gut-directed hypnotherapy, mindfulness
Lifestyle interventions: Stress management, sleep optimisation, regular exercise
The Gut-Brain Connection
The enteric nervous system (ENS) communicates with the brain via the vagus nerve
Stress, anxiety, and mood disorders can amplify gut symptoms
Functional disorders are not “all in your head”, they are real physical disruptions in signalling between the gut and brain
Preventing Relapse
Maintain a stress reduction routine
Monitor dietary triggers
Follow prescribed medication and therapy plans
Regular check-ins with a neurogastroenterologist
Struggling with unexplained gut symptoms?
Book a consultation with our LSDC neurogastroenterology specialists and take control of your gut-brain health today.