What is the Link Between Fibromyalgia and Bladder Problems?

What is the Link Between Fibromyalgia and Bladder Problems?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, fatigue, and mood swings. For many people with fibromyalgia, bladder problems are also a common occurrence. In fact, research has shown that up to 80 percent of people with fibromyalgia also experience some type of bladder dysfunction. There are a few different ways that fibromyalgia can lead to bladder problems. First, the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia can make it difficult to get to the bathroom in time. Additionally, the condition can cause changes in the muscles and nerves that control the bladder, which can lead to issues like incontinence or overactive bladder. Finally, fibromyalgia can also cause irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is a condition that often leads to bladder problems as well.

Types of Bladder Problems Associated with Fibromyalgia

Incontinence

This is the inability to control urination. People with incontinence may feel the urge to urinate more frequently or may accidentally leak urine when they cough, sneeze, or laugh.

Overactive bladde

This is a condition in which the muscles of the bladder contract too frequently, leading to a feeling of urgent need to urinate even when there is only a small amount of urine in the bladder. Overactive bladder can also cause leaking or incontinence

Urinary tract infections

These are infections that occur in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Urinary tract infections are more common in women than men and can often be cured with antibiotics

Interstitial cystitis

This is a chronic inflammation of the lining of the bladder that often leads to pelvic pain and pressure, as well as urinary frequency and urgency. There is no known cure for interstitial cystitis but there are treatment options available that can help manage symptoms


If you have fibromyalgia and you're experiencing any type of bladder problems, it's important to see your doctor so they can determine the best course of treatment. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, there are various treatments available that can help lessen symptoms and improve quality of life. The same is true for most types of bladder problems; while there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms and improve urinary function.