Understanding the Connection Between Fibromyalgia and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Fibromyalgia and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) are two conditions that, on the surface, might seem unrelated – one primarily causes pain sensation in the muscles and soft tissues, while the other targets the digestive system. However, a closer examination reveals a surprising link between the two, shedding light on the complexities of how our bodies can react to chronic conditions

The Prevalence of Digestive Issues in Fibromyalgia Patient

A significant portion of individuals with fibromyalgia also experience digestive problems. Research suggests that over 70% (and possibly as much as 80-90%) of people with fibromyalgia report symptoms typical of IBS, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits and nearly two-thirds of people with long-standing IBS will develop fibromyalgia. This overlap is not coincidental but points towards a deeper physiological connection

Physiological Similarities Between Fibromyalgia and IBS

Both fibromyalgia and IBS are classified as functional pain syndromes. This means that they are characterized by pain or discomfort without a clear structural or mechanical cause that can be identified. The pain in both conditions is real and often debilitating, but it arises from complex neurological processes rather than direct tissue damage or inflammation.

Central Sensitization

A key physiological similarity is the concept of "central sensitization." This refers to an increased sensitivity to pain in the central nervous system. In both fibromyalgia and IBS, patients have a lower threshold for pain in specific body systems (musculoskeletal and digestive, respectively) due to changes in how their brains process pain signals. This heightened sensitivity can make even normal sensory input feel painful or uncomfortable. A second, and closely related, similarity is the concept of “central allodynia”, which refers to the sensation of pain in the absence of any stimuli. While

stemming from the central nervous system, this pain can be felt in the periphery, specifically your skeletal muscles (fibromyalgia) or digestive system (IBS).

Stress Response and Autonomic Dysfunction

Both conditions also show a disrupted stress response and disfunction in the autonomic nervous system.. The autonomic nervous system, which controls bodily functions like heart rate and digestion, doesn’t always operate as it should in people with fibromyalgia and IBS. Stress, a common trigger for symptoms in both conditions, can further exacerbate this dysfunction.

Common Elements in Patient Histories

When looking at the histories of patients with either fibromyalgia or IBS, certain patterns emerge:

Chronic Stress and Trauma

Many patients report a history of chronic stress or traumatic events. This history can contribute to the development of a heightened pain response and autonomic dysfunction.

Overlap in Demographics

Both conditions are more common in women, and symptoms often start in early adulthood. This overlap suggests that there may be hormonal or gender-related factors at play.

Triggering Events

Both conditions can be triggered by specific events such as physical trauma, surgery, infection, or significant psychological stress.

Treatment Approaches

Given their similarities, fibromyalgia and IBS often require a multi-faceted treatment approach focusing on pain management, stress reduction, and improving quality of life. This can include:

Supplementation

Pain relievers, motility activators, and nervous system modulators can help reduce symptoms and improve your body’s responses to stress and other stimuli.

Lifestyle Changes

Regular exercise, sleep hygiene, and dietary modifications can be beneficial in regulating your body’s hormones and neurotransmitters to better suit your needs.

Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling can help manage the stress and emotional aspects of these conditions.

A Final Word

The connection between fibromyalgia and IBS highlights the intricate ways in which our bodies respond to pain and stress. It underscores the need for a holistic approach to treatment, considering both the physical and psychological aspects of these conditions. Understanding this connection can lead to more effective treatments and, ultimately, improved quality of life for those affected.

If you have any questions regarding Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or the connections between them, please contact the Clara Clinic to book an appointment with a naturopathic doctor.