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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does anyone else have issues with ibs that gets irritated when under a lupus flare? If so how long does it generally last for you?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Houston, TX

The Sunday before last I had to go to the emergency room for having sharp pain in my lower right abdomen. I do still have my appendix so the concern was that it could’ve been my appendix, but after undergoing bloodwork and an MRI they found that my gut was inflamed. I was diagnosed with IBS a couple of years ago after ending up really sick from a bacterial infection (bed of which I have no idea how that brought about issues with IBS, but according to the doctors it did). This is my first time… read more

April 14
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MyLupusTeam

Is it normal for lupus flares to irritate your GI tract and worsen IBS symptoms?

Yes, this is actually quite common. Between 40-60% of people with lupus experience digestive symptoms, and it's definitely possible for lupus to worsen IBS during a flare.

Lupus can cause inflammation throughout your digestive tract, including Show Full Answer

Is it normal for lupus flares to irritate your GI tract and worsen IBS symptoms?

Yes, this is actually quite common. Between 40-60% of people with lupus experience digestive symptoms, and it's definitely possible for lupus to worsen IBS during a flare.

Lupus can cause inflammation throughout your digestive tract, including your intestines. When you're flaring, this inflammation can trigger or worsen IBS symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.

Some people with lupus are diagnosed with both conditions, and the lupus inflammation can make IBS symptoms more intense during flare-ups. How long does it typically last?

The duration varies from person to person and depends on how long your lupus flare lasts. Since lupus flares themselves are unpredictable and unique to each individual, the GI symptoms can follow that same pattern.

A MyLupusTeam member shared experiencing stomach issues that coincide with their flares, noting they can be "sick to my stomach almost every day" during active periods.

It's important to work with your doctor to manage both the lupus flare and the GI symptoms. They can help determine if you need adjustments to your treatment plan or additional support for your digestive issues during flares.

Since this is your first time experiencing this combination, tracking your symptoms can help you understand your personal pattern over time.

April 14

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