Rectal Sensitivity
Irritable Bowel Syndome (IBS) is characterized by increased sensitivity of the rectum. We showed that rectal sensitivity is quite variable and identified how stress, inflammation and sleep deprivation could enhance sensitivity while hypnosis, relaxation and a new class of drugs that blocked serotonin receptors could diminish it. The latter became an important new way of treating IBS.
- Read, N.W. The importance of gut feelings. J. Gastrointestinal Motility 1992; 4:79-81.
- Prior, A., Read, N.W. Reduction of rectal sensitivity and postprandial motility by Granisetron, a 5HT3 antagonist, in patients with IBS. Alimentary Pharmacology Therap. 1993; 7: 175-180.
- Bergin, A.J., Read, N.W. The effects of sleep deprivation on rectal sensitivity in healthy volunteers. Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 1993; 5(7): 527-532.
- Read NW, Gwee KA.(1994) The importance of 5HT3 receptors in the gut. Alimentary Pharmacology and therapeutics. 62; l59-73.
- Read N.W. (2000). Rectal Distension: From Sensation to Feeling. (Editorial). Gastroenterology 118 (5): 972-974.
