Trans-cutaneous Vagal Nerve Electrical Stimulation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Sympatho-vagal Balance in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and Evaluation of a Transcutaneous Vagal Nerve Electrical Stimulation on Symptoms and Quality of Life

This pilot study plan to investigate the sympathovagal balance in women affected by Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and to evaluate the effect of 6 months of trans-cutaneous vagal nerve electrical stimulation on digestive physiology (intestinal transit time, intestinal mucosal permeability, systemic and local inflammation), symptoms and quality of life.

The safety of the electrical stimulation of the left vagal nerve will also be evaluated.

Ten women, age between 18 and 60, will be included.

Inclusion Criteria:

• women aged 18-60,
• clinical Rome III criteria for IBS

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnancy,
• low intensity symptoms (Francis score between 75-150)
• IBD, coeliac disease
• past history of abdominal surgery (appendectomy and cholecystectomy allowed)
• chronic use of analgesics, anti-depressants