What psychological factor is often linked with increased abdominal pain sensitivity?

The link between anxiety and increased abdominal pain sensitivity is well-documented in medical literature. Anxiety can heighten the perception of pain through various mechanisms, including the impact it has on the brain's processing of pain signals. When an individual experiences anxiety, their body may enter a heightened state of arousal, which can lead to an increased focus on bodily sensations, making any existing pain feel more intense. This heightened sensitivity can amplify the discomfort associated with abdominal pain conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or functional abdominal pain.

Moreover, anxiety can influence physiological responses, such as muscle tension and gastrointestinal motility, which can exacerbate abdominal pain. Thus, understanding the role of anxiety in relation to abdominal pain sensitivity is crucial for creating effective treatment plans and coping strategies for patients experiencing abdominal discomfort.