Distinct age-related characteristics in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: patient reported outcomes and measures of gut physiology

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is common among all ages, but the associations between symptoms, gut physiology, and ageing are poorly understood. We aimed to characterize patients of different age by comparing symptom reports and gut physiology measures. This retrospective cohort study included IBS patients that completed questionnaires (severity of (non-) gastrointestinal and psychological symptoms, quality of life) and gut physiology testing (transit time, rectal sensitivity, anorectal manometry, small bowel permeability). We included 1677 IBS patients (females 74%, mean age 39 ± 14 years). Younger age was associated with more severe symptoms and worse quality of life. Ageing affects the physiologic state of the gut; older patients have slower gut transit and have an altered anorectal function. Exploratory analyses suggest that age-related changes in gut sensorimotor function could partially explain the severity of specific gastrointestinal symptoms. Our results underline that age should be taken into consideration in the management of IBS.