A new study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology has suggested that shift workers possess a significantly high risk of falling in prey to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and abdominal pain compared to those working a standard day-time schedule.

“We know that people participating in shift work often complain of gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhea”, says Sandra Hoogerwerf, M. D., Assistant Professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School.

IBS, the most common functional bowel disorder is very difficult to diagnose and include symptoms as recurrent episodes of abdominal pain or cramping in connection with altered bowel habits.

The study conducted by Hoogerwerf and her colleagues observed nurses segregated into three groups-214 working permanent day shifts, 110 working permanent night shifts and 75 working rotating shifts between day and night-based on self-reported abdominal symptoms and sleep quality.

The findings revealed that nurses working in shifts, particularly those who participate in rotating shift work, face a higher risk of IBS and abdominal pain.

“The question now for further research is if IBS and abdominal pain is an underlying manifestation of a circadian rhythm disorder”, Hoogerwerf posted.