Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

What is a common symptom reported by patients with fibromyalgia related to gastrointestinal issues?

1. Reflux disease

2. Irritable bowel syndrome

3. Peptic ulcer disease

4. Celiac disease

The correct answer is: Irritable bowel syndrome

Patients with fibromyalgia frequently report gastrointestinal issues, with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) being one of the most common. The relationship between fibromyalgia and IBS is well-documented, as both conditions share similar mechanisms, such as dysregulation in pain processing, heightened sensitivity to stimuli, and possibly overlapping psychological factors. Individuals with fibromyalgia often face functional gastrointestinal disorders, which manifest as a combination of symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. The overlap between the central sensitivity syndromes (like fibromyalgia) and IBS highlights the prevalence of gastrointestinal complaints among this patient population. While reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, and celiac disease can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, they are not directly associated with the fibromyalgia syndrome in the same way that IBS is. IBS is characterized by a functional disturbance of the gastrointestinal tract rather than a structural problem, making it particularly relevant in the context of fibromyalgia, where patients often experience multiorgan sensitivity and a heightened perception of discomfort. Thus, the prominence of irritable bowel syndrome as a symptom in fibromyalgia patients reflects a common and significant comorbidity that impacts their quality of life.