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Angel - posted on 09/02/2010

I say YES to your question Tenille! Very often Irritable Bowel Syndrome happens with Lupus and that sounds like what you have. You have to remember that inflammation form Lupus can happen anywhere in your body, including your stomach and bowels. I have had the same problem. I have done extensive research about Lupus, been a Lupus Support Group Director, given talks on Lupus at many women's events, and see one of the best Dr. in the world for Lupus. My Dr. is on the world committees for Lupus and often leads the field in research. So not only do I have her knowledge but my own. I have often been told by Dr.s that I could teach a class to other Dr.s about Lupus. I am not trying to blow my own horn but just trying to give you some of my background. Medication, as the other mothers have pointed out, could also be your problem even if you are not on meds for Lupus it could be your heart meds if you are on any for that. Over the counter meds can even worsen the effect. Your nerves can effect your bowels as well, meaning you are worried and stress about your situation. Maybe you could contact me and I could get some more background and see if I could give you some suggestions. Like I said, I have that problem and it took me a long time of trying different things to help the problem.

Michelle - posted on 04/15/2010

Thanks for asking that question! I have had the same problems for about 6 mon.

Nicole - posted on 11/02/2009

Sorry, one more thought...didn't see your post that Drs don't have you on RX meds, but OTC's can make IBS worse....I started taking Valarian Root for pain and my IBD just went nuts!! So now I take it first thing in the AM before eating and it doesn't mess with the IBD like it did if I took it mid-day. Anyway...IBS/IBD is so very "touchy" its hard to know what can set if off....talk with a Dr about it and get checked out...it can be controlled, just have to know what your "triggers" are!

Again, Best Wishes for health!!

Nicole

Nicole - posted on 11/02/2009

Sue's thoughts are great....find out if any meds...RX or OTC could be causing bowel issues. Then, if you're not on meds, or that has been ruled out, time for a colonoscopy. Most people who have Lupus, Fibro, etc suffer some form of IBS/IBD (irritable bowel disease) it may be part of your disease, or could be something more...I found out I had Ulcerative Colitis during all this testing since I too was home-bound due to bowel issues. So, I feel your pain/frustration!! It's embarrasing when you find yourself trying not to have "an accident" in public!! Best wishes to you, and as hard as it is, talk with your doctor! God Bless!

Nicole (mom of 2 w/Lupus-MCTD, Fibro, UC)

Tenille - posted on 11/01/2009

Hey Sue....I am currently not taking any meds for Lupus as I also have a heart condition and we are trying to find one that doesnt mess with my heart! I am going to ring it up to Her forsure Im just going crazy waiting to get in lol!

Sue - posted on 11/01/2009

Hi Tenille, I was wondering what medication your taking for your Lupus, or currently on for any other condition? Sometimes medication will do this to you,,, I have the same problem, some days I cant leave the house because I have to go every couple of minutes, other days I am so constipated that I get hemorroids. Please mention this to your Rhuemy next appointment,, they may want to do some testing, or they may tell you its a side effect of the medication your on.