Can depression cause IBS?

Since stress can trigger/make IBS worse, I wouldn't be surprised if it can bring it on, my IBS is triggered by stress....but the fact that they found inflammation in your terminal ileum is indicative of IBD not IBS, IBD is inflammatory bowel disease, IBS is irritable bowel and there is no inflammation involved, I have both IBD and IBS, my IBD is in remission, still working on my IBS, it's really really hard to take enough stress out of your life in the hopes that your bowels will finally behave normally....it's only improved slightly with meditation and yoga but it's definitely gotten better than what it was so there's likely something to dealing with some of the stress helping my IBS.

Reflux issues can be common with crohn's (one form of IBD, the other being ulcerative colitis) just because you don't have inflammation in your colon (but you do in your TI) should be red flags that it's very likely some type of IBD (likely Crohn's with inflammation being in the TI part of your GI tract) I'd be getting a second opinion if whomever told you they saw inflammation in your GI tract and are still telling you IBS.

Meditation and relaxation won't do anything for your bowels if you have inflammation, it may help slightly but it won't put inflammation at bay the way it can help with IBS where there is no inflammation. Maybe get another scope done to see if there's still inflammation or if it's worse, then they might be able to give you a correct DX. Crohn's isn't the only disease that can cause inflammation, Celiacs and ulcerative colitis can as well, there's are many things that can cause it besides Crohn's.

Andy if your physicians can't find any biologal explanation for your upper GI issues (besides IBS) then I dont think its at all unreasonable to consider an emotional source. If you are experiencing a condition of the mind which causes the release of hormones into your bloodstream and neurotrans. between brain and body then its bound to have an effect.

Most average people experience stomach upset in times of emotional hardship, whether its bowel gymnastics or something straightforward like loss of appetite. Its entirely normal. If it makes you feel any better, when i had agoraphobia i noticed if i was home I would eat dinner with very little trouble, but as soon as I ventured outside, out of my comfort zone, I would be instantly nauseated. And the reverse is also true, i would be out with friends and not eat all day because i had no appetite, then as soon as I was home and comfortable, boom, starving.

I think you suspect that your upper GI issues are related to your state of mind, so it may be worth doing some thorough research into a doctor or counsellor (or even dietician) who is experienced in this area and trying to focus your attention on healing your emotional condition and worrying less about the cause of your stomach discomfort.

There are some really interesting books out there, one I just finished is called Gut by Giulia Enders and something like that may be a good place to start. Of course dont neglect your other digestive issues, but if there is no significant cause it cant hurt to focus on how you can help yourself in your emotional recovery