The role of virtual reality in managing inflammatory bowel disease: a novel approach to bridging mental and physical health

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea, which may persist even when inflammation is controlled. These symptoms are further exacerbated by psychological stress, which may complicate disease management that involves the gut-brain axis-a bidirectional communication pathway linking the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system. While stress, anxiety, and depression are prevalent among patients with IBD, access to comprehensive mental health care is often limited, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool in managing psychological comorbidities and enhancing the overall care of patients with IBD. The integration of VR in IBD care offers a novel, accessible approach to addressing both physical and mental health challenges, potentially improving the quality of life and clinical outcomes for IBD patients. Further research is warranted to evaluate the long-term benefits and broader applicability of VR-based interventions in diverse patient populations.