What are we researching? 

This project investigates the role of the body's own "cannabis-like" chemicals, and gut microbes, in abdominal pain experienced by patients with inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. 

Who can participate? 

We are currently recruiting patients with IBD who meet the following eligibility criteria:

• 18 years or older
• Diagnosis of IBD (either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
• Ongoing or recurrent abdominal pain relating to their IBD within the past 3 months
• Under the care of the Gastroenterology Team at GUH
• Not pregnant or breastfeeding
• No other types of acute or chronic pain
• Not taken antibiotics in the past 3 months 
• No surgery in the abdominal or pelvic area in the previous 6 months. No cancer, or acute infection that is causing the abdominal pain
• No widespread pain disorders (such as fibromyalgia) or auto immune/inflammatory pain disorders (e.g., diabetes, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, trigeminal neuralgia)

What does participation involve?

Participants would be required to come to 3 study visits over 6 months at the Clinical Research Facility, at Galway University Hospital, each involving:

• Questionnaires about pain, anxiety, depression, fatigue and quality of life
• Sensory testing using sensations on your skin such as heat, cold, touch, and pressure
• Blood, saliva, and stool sample

How can I find out more?

If you are interested in participating, you can get in touch with Study Lead, Rebecca, at r.lane2@universityofgalway.ie to express your interest and get more detailed information about the study.