Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a very common condition, but is especially prevalent in people with Fibromyalgia. IBS is found in approximately 60% of Fibromyalgia patients.

Some of the more common symptoms associated with IBS are:

- Diarrhea (one of the commonest symptoms)

- Constipation (if not diarrhea)

- Abdominal gas and bloating (very common)

- Nausea

- Decreased appetite

Patients often state that when they experience a flare-up of their Fibromyalgia symptoms, their IBS will also flare-up. Increased stress will also trigger an increase in their IBS symptoms.

Experiencing IBS causes a few problems that are not usually addressed or considered when describing Fibromyalgia symptoms.

First of all, if a person cannot eat, there is a decrease in the amount of nutrients that the person will ingest, absorb and utilize within the body. This in itself can cause a cascade of different symptoms and/or conditions that potentially can make the Fibromyalgia symptoms worsen.

A decrease in nutrient intake leads to a nutrient deficient state in the body. This is why it might make sense for someone to try adding supplements to their diet to get the required nutrients the body needs daily.

Secondly, by not eating, you are probably not consuming enough calories to help keep your energy levels up. Food as you know is fuel for the body. Lack of fuel will contribute to the fatigue that is experienced by FMS sufferers.

Self Care For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

These suggestions are going to be on a trial and error type basis.

- Cut out artificial sweeteners

- Avoid salads or raw vegetables during times of flare-ups

- Try applesauce, bananas, wild Atlantic fish such as salmon or cod during times of flare-ups

- Avoid diet drinks

- Avoid hot coffee or teas

- Avoid spicy foods

Useful web sites