The Connection Between GI Issues and Fibromyalgia

If you are suffering from both GI issues and fibromyalgia, and you believe these two are related, you could very well be correct. GI issues, or gastrointestinal symptoms, include problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhea, constipation, bloating and heartburn. If any of these symptoms started to occur around the time your fibromyalgia did, they are likely to be related.

What is IBS?

IBS it one of the main associators with fibromyalgia, and can cause much of the other GI issues. Those with IBS have trouble with movement in the colon. The different types of foods you consume as well as any stress you experience can contribute to the irritable feelings IBS brings.

Eating Habits and IBS

When having IBS, specific nutrients you absorb will affect your nervous system, and for fibromyalgia sufferers, they will also affect your pain level. The gut issues you experience due to IBS increase intestinal permeability. Intestinal permeability describes the control of nutrients passing from the inside of the gastrointestinal tract, through the cells lining your gut and into your portal vein. From the portal vein, the nutrients then go up to your liver and create an inflammatory response that sends your whole system off.

If you are experiencing any of IBS’s symptoms like constipation, diarrhea or bloating and gas, you’re placing a lot of stress on your system. At some point, your system will become overwhelmed and that stress will lead to the pain syndrome associated with fibromyalgia.

Stress and IBS

Stress plays a role in IBS as well. A significant number of patients with IBS also have depression or anxiety, both symptoms of fibromyalgia. Because of their connection through nerves, your brain is able to send messages to your colon on how to react to certain things. Stress tells the brain to send painful responses to the colon which then causes IBS. Experiencing depression and anxiety due to fibromyalgia can actually increase your chances for irritable bowel syndrome.

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Are your GI issues and fibromyalgia related? It seems to be very likely. Both of their symptoms play off of each other to produce some immense pain for your body. There are treatments for both conditions, and Epigenetics Healing Center can help assist you in finding the right ones for.

Dr. Goodbinder of Epigenetics Healing Center can provide you with natural treatments that can completely alter your body’s functions thus solving your pain due to fibromyalgia and IBS. Call them today at (913) 339-9951 to schedule an appointment.