@A MyLupusTeam Member, The improvement with steroids suggests it could be intestinal pseudo-obstruction, which we can get from lupus, which tends to respond to steroids. It's thought to possibly be related to an autoimmune attack of the smooth muscle in the GI tract and possibly vasculitis, which causes ischemia and decreased movement. I'm unsure if other meds keep it controlled so that you don't have to be on chronic steroids.

If your rheumatologist is unsure, you may want to consider going to a specialized lupus center, such as Johns Hopkins, for consultation. Keep us posted, please!

Mentioned Users

A MyLupus...

Can peppermint tea cause bloating?

Peppermint may relieve digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, and indigestion. Animal studies indicate that peppermint relaxes your digestive system and may ease pain. It also prevents smooth muscles from contracting, which could relieve spasms in your gut ( 3 )

Our stomachs can become sluggish and slow to empty due to neuropathy, Nancy, which may be part of it. Are you, by chance, lactose (dairy) intolerant, as that could be aggravating things? Meds can certainly play a role, too.

I hope you get some relief. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help.

It’s awful!

Yes I get terrible bloating