Objectives: Subjects with fibromyalgia [FMS] frequently have nonspecific bo
wel complaints similar to subjects with small intestinal bacterial overgrow
th [SIBO]. The aim of this study was to test whether 1. SIBO is prevalent i
n FMS and 2. If treatment of SIBO reduces bowel symptoms.
Methods: Of 815 subjects undergoing lactulose hydrogen breath testing for a
ssessment of SIBO, 123 patients had FMS. Those with SIBO were treated with
antibiotics. At the initial and follow-up visits, subjects were asked to ra
te their symptoms. Symptom scores before and after treatment were compared.
Results: Of the 123 subjects with FMS, 96 [78%] were found to have SIBO. Re
turning subjects reported a 57 +/- 29% overall improvement in symptoms with
significant improvement in bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, consti
pation,joint pains, and fatigue [P < 0.05]. Conclusions: 1. Small intestina
l bacterial overgrowth is associated with FMS, 2. Eradication of SIBO impro
ves intestinal symptoms in FMS. (C) 2001 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rig
hts reserved.