When living with fibromyalgia, you need to be prepared to manage a wide variety of symptoms. This condition is complex, and characterized by widespread pain and fatigue. A constant dull ache is the most commonly reported side effect. However, it can and often does end up affecting the gut! Stomach pain is another common symptoms.
Many people with fibromyalgia often experience stomach pain or digestive issues. Doctors are still unsure as to what the direct connection is, but they know there is one! These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and add to the burden of managing the condition. In this overview, PatientsLikeMe will cover what could be behind the link, and ways you can manage the pain.
The Connection
Pain caused by fibromyalgia is not because of injury or damage to the body. Instead, the pain comes from an issue the central and peripheral nervous systems have with signaling. The cause is still unknown, but for those with the condition they have a heightened sensitivity to pain. This extends all across the body.
Interestingly, the gut and the brain are closely connected through the gut-brain axis. This is a bidirectional communication system that allows the brain and gut to influence each other's function. Fibromyalgia patients often, as a result, have gastrointestinal issues. This can be something like abdominal pain, bloating, or constipation.
Symptoms
One common gastrointestinal issue experienced by individuals with fibromyalgia is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a digestive disorder characterized by symptoms such as cramping, belly pain, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. Up to 70% of people with fibromyalgia are also diagnosed with IBS.
In addition to IBS, acid reflux is another common digestive problem found among individuals with fibromyalgia. Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back up the tube connecting the stomach and mouth. This leads to symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic form of acid reflux, is also more common in people with fibromyalgia.
Treatment
So what can you do to treat these symptoms? Managing stomach pain and digestive issues in fibromyalgia often involves a combination of lifestyle strategies and medications.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Making dietary changes, such as avoiding trigger foods that worsen symptoms, can help manage digestive issues. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and staying hydrated may also help. Finding ways to manage stress, such as relaxation exercises and mindfulness meditation, can help reduce symptoms.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: For acid reflux and GERD, over-the-counter antacids can provide temporary relief by neutralizing stomach acid. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are prescription medications that reduce the production of stomach acid. These may be recommended for more severe cases.
- Prescription Medications: In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary. These help to manage gastrointestinal symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. Work with your doctor to find a regimen that works best for you.
It is important to stay on top of all the symptoms that fibromyalgia throws your away. By understanding the link between these conditions and having treatment strategies prepared, you can improve your quality of life and better manage your symptoms. Remember, the first step should always be consulting with your healthcare provider. Communications is a key part of personalized treatment that will suit your needs!
