Research into the link between IBS and sleep issues remains limited, but some studies have shown that sleep disturbances are more common in people with the condition.

So, what’s driving this? Well, several explanations have been suggested. For one thing, pain is thought to play a role – when you’re dealing with stomach cramps, bloating and general digestive discomfort, you’re more likely to find it hard to fall asleep and wake up frequently throughout the night. Disruptions to the gut microbiome – also known as dysbiosis – could also play a role due to the impact this can have on circadian rhythm, and the stress and anxiety commonly associated with IBS can also disrupt sleep.

Wilkinson suggests that the low serotonin levels in people with IBS could also cause issues. “Serotonin plays an important role in our sleep, as well as our general day-to-day mood,” she says. “Our bodies convert serotonin into melatonin, which is a hormone that helps us fall asleep at night. With IBS-sufferers often experiencing low levels of serotonin, this may also affect the quality of their sleep.”

Research has shown that people with IBS – specifically those who struggle with constipation – are more likely to have low levels of serotonin, which has links to conditions such as insomnia and depression (the latter of which people with IBS are at increased risk of). But more work needs to be done until we can say for certain why so many people with IBS deal with sleepless nights.

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