OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Advice for Persistent Stomach Distress

I’m a 19-year-old female experiencing some seriously uncomfortable stomach problems, and I could really use some guidance. A few days ago, I noticed I hadn’t had a bowel movement in what felt like two days. While I initially thought this was manageable, my stomach began making unusual noises accompanied by cramping sensations towards the lower abdomen and even a bit towards my back. I could actually feel the movement within my gut, like a buildup that was causing a lot of turbulence at the lower end of my intestines. When I finally went to the restroom, I found myself letting out some remarkably loud, wet gas. I assumed I was about to have a bowel movement but was met with just the flatulence. To my surprise, there was some liquid involved that resembled a clear mucus-like substance when I wiped. So odd! Despite this, I still couldn’t actually poop. That night, the strange bubbling continued in my stomach, but I naively thought I could just sleep it off and wake up feeling better. However, the following morning set a grim tone. Thinking I could safely relieve myself, I let out what I thought was just gas, only to discover that some liquid had escaped and trickled down my leg. The bathroom was occupied, so I hastily grabbed some tissues from my room to clean myself up and fretted over whether my space would stink permanently. Fortunately, it didn’t smell as bad as I feared. Finally, when the bathroom was free, I rushed in and was greeted by more loud, wet gas. After having breakfast and preparing for school, I still felt an unsettling bubbling in my stomach and found myself back in the bathroom facing yet more flatulence. I took a tiny puff from a vape, which I suspect might have triggered what unfolded next. Suddenly, I was drenched in a cold sweat as I pondered if it was finally time for a real bowel movement or just more gas. I felt utterly defeated. Eventually, I did have a bowel movement, but it was far from solid – more like an unrelenting waterfall. The ache in my stomach was so intense it left me feeling nauseated, and the intense pain hit me in waves that felt similar to contractions. The whole episode lasted only a couple of minutes but left me feeling worn out and shaky. Fortunately, the bubbling in my stomach subsided after that. The next day I didn’t go at all, and then on the day following, I had a couple of loose bowel movements but with hardly anything coming out. Yesterday was a repeat of no bowel activity, and today, I still haven’t gone but can feel a bubbling sensation that fills me with dread. I intended to move past this embarrassing incident and forget about it, but it seems to be rearing its ugly head again. Today, I found myself back in the restroom with some mild wetness, not as explosive compared to my previous experiences, but still noticeable and certainly concerning. I really can’t handle going through this ordeal again. I’ve attempted to eat foods that are typically deemed easy on the stomach, as suggested by searches online. But I must ask – what is going on here? Am I facing constipation, diarrhea, or some combination of both? Normally, I have daily bowel movements each morning without issue. Reflecting on my past, I’ve had some tummy troubles before. As a child and before hitting puberty, my stomach would act up drastically to the point where I would feel so nausea-stricken I’d tremble until I fell asleep from exhaustion. This usually followed indulgent meals loaded with fatty foods like pizza and chips. Although the severity of this has decreased since puberty, I still hesitate to eat certain rich foods. During my teenage years, between ages 14 and 15, anxiety issues would compel me to constantly seek out the bathroom. Later, through struggles with anorexia, I faced ongoing constipation for about a year. However, in more recent times, my bowel movements have stabilized and become relatively routine. At this point, I truly don’t know where to turn for help. Please feel free to ask any questions, and thank you so much in advance for your assistance!

Answers (1)

3/29/2025, 10:30:48 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're experiencing a challenging combination of digestive issues, including episodes of constipation, loose bowel movements, and stomach discomfort. Given your history and current symptoms, it's understandable to feel anxious about what's happening in your body.

Summary of Your Situation:

1. Symptoms: Unusual bowel sounds, cramping, difficulty passing stools, episodes of liquid bowel movements, and overall stomach discomfort.
2. History: Past issues with digestion, including constipation and anxiety-related bowel urgency, as well as specific triggers like rich foods.

Possible Explanations:

• Constipation: Your symptoms suggest that there may be episodes of constipation, where you have difficulty moving your bowels. This can lead to gas buildup, cramping, and discomfort.
• Diarrhea: The liquid, loose bowel movements indicate diarrhea, which can occur as your body tries to relieve the constipation or respond to irritation in the digestive tract.
• Food Sensitivities: Given your past experiences with fatty foods, it’s possible that certain foods are triggering your symptoms, contributing to both constipation and diarrhea.
• Stress and Anxiety: Since you’ve noted past anxiety issues linked to digestive health, stress could also play a role in your current condition.

Next Steps:

1. Dietary Adjustments:

   • Focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to promote regular bowel movements. However, increase fiber gradually to prevent gas.
   • Avoid trigger foods that have caused problems in the past, particularly high-fat or processed foods.
   • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, which can help with constipation.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms:

   • Keep a symptom diary for a week to identify any food triggers or patterns related to your bowel movements. Note what you eat, your stress level, and any digestive symptoms.

3. Gentle Movement:

   • Engage in regular physical activity, even if it’s just a short daily walk. Exercise can stimulate digestion and help relieve constipation.

4. Mindfulness and Stress Relief:

   • Consider trying stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage anxiety that may contribute to your symptoms.

5. Over-the-Counter Solutions:

   • If constipation prevails, consider a fiber supplement or a mild laxative (like polyethylene glycol or senna) for short-term relief, but avoid overuse.

6. Avoid Irritants:

   • Reduce or eliminate vaping and any excessive alcohol or caffeine, as these can irritate the digestive system.

Follow-Up:

If your symptoms persist for more than a week, or if you experience severe pain, fever, blood in your stool, or significant changes to your digestive patterns, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.

You’re not alone in this, and many people go through similar digestive issues—understanding your body’s response is key. Keep track of your symptoms and take care of yourself, and reach out if you need more assistance.