This information sheds light on the complexities of managing IBS in individuals with symptomatic hypermobility and underscores the importance of holistic support and understanding for those living with these conditions. We find many of our members who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, Dyspraxic, TS +) and have symptomatic hypermobility (EDS HSD) are prone to this.
IBS is quite a common disorder affecting the large intestine (colon) and sometime the smaller intestine and often accompanied by pain. Many people with symptomatic hypermobility or formally diagnosed (Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD)). It can often occur or reoccur throughout our lifetimes. Here are some thoughts on why and what tips might help.
Some symptoms are :
Bloating, gas, cramping pains, mucus in stools and diarrhoea and or constipation. People with symptomatic hypermobility or if diagnosed (EDS HSD pgJH) have weaker and more elastic collagen in the connective tissue. Connective tissue can be found throughout the body including the organs. People with symptomatic hypermobility often have a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) particularly those with Postural Tachycardia syndrome. When this malfunctions we think it maybe affects many parts so the body including the gastrointestinal tract nerves.
Usually doctors will test for coeliac disease but also quite often this comes back as negative. They might also check for Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which can often occur at the same time but this can be checked with a poo test!
Our tips are :
For symptomatic hypermobile people with IBS symptoms like bloating, it might help to eat
oats or linseeds avoid high histamine foods
If acute; natural remedies such as peppermint oil may help,
or other medications &/or probiotics
If you have diarrhoea symptoms, it might help to cut down on high fibre such
as whole grain breads nuts and seeds rice
Drink plenty of fluids, and if you can, avoid soda.
This is GENERAL advice and everyone is DIFFERENT
If Constipated; drink lots of fluids (not alcohol)
and eat more fibre, pulses, oats carrots, linseeds
You may possibly need medication
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is also common with IBS but also again sometimes overshadowed by IBS. They can also occur at the same time. SIBO is a large amount of bacteria which occurs in usually in the small intestine. In the large intestine there is bacteria which is needed but sometimes for people with symptoms of hypermobility we have poor motility in the stomach causing constipation and or diarrhreoa. It can mean you have poorer absorption of vitamins and minerals. It can help explain the food intolerances many neurodivergent and symptomatic hypermobility people have and most common are bad breath, gas, burping and sometimes rashes.
According to NHS patient, 70% of your immune system can be found in your gut and this can compromise your immune system further. This might trigger the skin immune systems with acne.
by Jane Green MBE
Key words: Neurodivergence Neurodivergent Autism Autistic ADHD Dyspraxia Dyspraxic TS Tourettes Hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos syndromes EDS HSD pgJH Pain IBS IBD Crohns' Coeliac SIBO MCAS Anxiety #Notmedical advice
References
About SEDSConnective
SEDSConnective is a voluntary- and user-led charity founded in 2018 in Sussex, United Kingdom, with now global reach. We provide voice and support for family, carers, and allied professionals with symptomatic hypermobility. We make sure to include everyone who has been diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD), and pgJH/HSD (Paediatric Generalised Joint Hypermobility/HSD) plus associated conditions like POTS, fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue. You do not need a diagnosis to join us or the carer. We accept those who have symptoms with or without a formal diagnosis for neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, Tourette’s, dyslexia dyscalculia and more). Our charity provides advocacy, advice, peer-to-peer support, specialist activities, opportunities for involvement in research and avenues to develop their own advocacy specialisms.
For further information on the charity, please visit the website www.sedsconnective.org, or social media or X/Twitter (https://twitter.com/SEDSConnective) LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/sedsconnective/), or FaceBook (www.facebook.com/SEDSConnective/).