Irritable Bowel Syndrome and High Risk for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
A connection between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and somatic disorders, such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, has been revealed by researchers from the University of Missouri School of Medicine.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a gastrointestinal disorder impacting up to 15 percent of the population, leads to symptoms such as cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. A comprehensive study analyzing over 1.2 million hospitalizations of IBS patients across 4,000 U.S. hospitals over three years has revealed a notable association. Individuals with IBS were found to be five times more likely to experience fibromyalgia, a chronic musculoskeletal pain disorder, compared to the general adult population without IBS. Additionally, those with IBS had significantly elevated chances of also having chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a condition characterized by severe fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and sleep disturbances, when compared to the population without IBS.
“Because IBS patients have higher prevalence of somatic comorbidities such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, identifying and treating these disorders can improve their quality of life,” said lead researcher Zahid Ijaz Tarar, MD, a fellow in the division of gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of Missouri School of Medicine. “Earlier identification of comorbidities is valuable to inform treatment strategies, including consulting other specialties such as rheumatology and psychiatry to improve the overall health outcomes in IBS patients.”
These discoveries extend the existing body of research that identified a connection between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
The increased prevalence of these physical conditions subsequent to IBS, triggered by gastrointestinal infections and the consequent administration of antibiotics, has led researchers to hypothesize that an imbalance in gut bacteria and a permeable gut, allowing toxins to enter the bloodstream, may contribute to their emergence.
“This is yet another example where ailments in the gut are linked to ailments elsewhere in the body and mind,” said senior author Yezaz Ghouri, MD, assistant professor of clinical medicine and gastroenterology. “As we continue to learn more about how gut health effects health elsewhere, it is important that clinicians look for and manage somatic comorbidities in IBS patients.”
more recommended stories
Perinatal Mental Health Challenges Highlighted in New StudyMental Health Challenges in New Parents:.
Walking Speed Before Hip Replacement Predicts RecoveryNew Evidence Points to a Simple,.
How Soybean Oil Impacts Weight Gain and MetabolismWhy Soybean Oil May Affect Metabolism.
New Malaria Prevention Insights From African BiostatisticsHow New Data Is Reframing Malaria.
World Summit Outlines Core Principles for Healthy LongevityWhy Healthy Longevity Demands a New.
Gut Immune Cells and Long-Lasting Antiviral Protection.Breakthrough Findings on How Gut Immune.
Mild Pancreatic Duct Dilatation Signals Higher Cancer RiskEarly Structural Changes Offer Critical Clues.
Ultra-Processed Foods in Mediterranean Youth: RisksThe Mediterranean region is widely recognized.
Intensive mind-body retreat rapidly alters brain functionAn intensive mind-body retreat combining meditation,.
Longevity Gene May Extend Lifespan Without Strict DietsThe search for safe and realistic.
Leave a Comment