Studies show a large overlap between Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Fibromyalgia. A major finding is a connection involving overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine producing gases like hydrogen and methane. These gasses cause intestinal bloating and widespread pain in the body by lowering the pain threshold. A simple breath test is used to diagnose this problem by drinking a solution of lactulose (a non-digestible sugar). The treatment involves a course of a special non-absorbable antibiotic for severe cases and always dietary changes to eliminate starches and sugars. Small intestinal bacteria ferment carbohydrates into gas. Functional Medicine Pain Mangement Clinic in Tucson Arizona. Hunter Yost M.D.

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