Feeling Desperate - Seeking Advice!
Greetings, fellow Redditors! I would sincerely appreciate any assistance you might offer. I’m a 32-year-old female, weighing 120 pounds and standing at 5 feet 8 inches. For several years now, I've been experiencing persistent gastrointestinal issues. Initially, I received an IBS diagnosis, but I've come to believe it was primarily chronic constipation, resulting in occasional overflow diarrhea and intestinal spasms. Over the past five years, I’ve encountered severe flare-ups every couple of months. These episodes often coincide with hormonal fluctuations, typically surfacing right after ovulation (which I can distinctly sense) or just ahead of my menstrual cycle. The symptoms during these times are incredibly debilitating, featuring intense chronic diarrhea, skin eruptions, heart palpitations, nausea, insomnia, and cramping pain. These episodes can last for an extended period, sometimes weeks without resolution. I've tried various methods to recover, but what worked previously is often ineffective the next time – I’ve used Rifaximin, experienced pregnancy, and taken ondansetron. Currently, I’m in another flare-up, and nothing seems to alleviate it. Here’s a rundown of what I've been through so far: — I underwent a complete endoscopy and colonoscopy, both yielding normal results, including biopsies. — I've had standard blood tests conducted; initially, they indicated low vitamin D and elevated IgE levels. I’ve since been supplementing with vitamin D and taking cetirizine to manage that. — Ultrasound examinations checked for ovarian cysts, and these have revealed conditions like pelvic congestion, PCOS on my right ovary, and a “thickened lining of the myometrium” at various times. — I’ve been following a low FODMAP diet, which I tailored to suit my needs over the long term. — I’ve also engaged in gut-directed hypnotherapy, which I enjoy and continue nearly daily - my SEHCAT scan results were normal. — I have given birth to two children through spontaneous conception. My issues began prior to both pregnancies but subsided while I was expecting. — I've tried multiple probiotics, and my gastroenterologist suggested I take ispaghula husk to regulate things. That helped, but it’s not effective during a flare-up like the one I’m currently experiencing. — My family's medical history includes instances of endometrial cancer and fibroids. My mother has thyroid problems and rheumatoid arthritis, while my father is diabetic. My gastroenterologist has discharged me, claiming it’s a gynecological issue, yet I’m facing a long wait for an appointment with a gynecologist—my next consultation won’t be until January 2026. I am reaching out for help—what can I do to feel better? What should I consider discussing with my general practitioner? What could be the underlying cause of my issues?
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 8:01:11 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the persistent gastrointestinal issues you're experiencing. It sounds incredibly challenging, especially as these symptoms significantly impact your quality of life. Based on your detailed description, it appears you are dealing with a complex interplay of gastrointestinal and possibly hormonal factors. Let's break down some practical steps you can take while waiting for your gynecologist appointment.
Main Points:
- Consider hormonal management strategies due to the timing of your flare-ups relative to your menstrual cycle.
- Focus on symptom management during flare-ups with specific dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
- Discuss additional evaluations with your general practitioner to explore possible connections between GI symptoms and gynecological health.
Explanation:
Your symptoms, which seem tied to hormonal fluctuations around ovulation and menstruation, suggest the possibility of endometriosis or another gynecological condition impacting your gut health. While it’s encouraging that your gastroenterological tests returned normal results, the gastrointestinal system often interacts closely with hormonal changes, which could explain your episodes.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms in relation to your menstrual cycle, diet, and any lifestyle factors (such as stress levels). This information will be invaluable for your general practitioner or gynecologist and may highlight patterns that lead to more targeted interventions.
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Discuss Hormonal Treatment Options:
- Talk to your general practitioner about the possibility of hormonal therapies (like birth control pills or other hormone-regulating medications) that could stabilize your symptoms related to your menstrual cycle.
- Ask about the potential for endometriosis or other hormonal disorders affecting your gastrointestinal health, as this could guide further investigations.
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Manage Flare-Ups:
- During flare-ups, consider continuing or adjusting your low FODMAP diet to ensure it remains as effective as possible. You could explore tracking specific triggers.
- Since hydration is critical during episodes of diarrhea, ensure you’re drinking enough fluids, potentially with electrolyte solutions to avoid dehydration.
- Experiment with stress-reducing techniques, such as yoga or mindfulness practices, alongside your gut-directed hypnotherapy, to see if they help manage symptoms.
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Set Up a Prioritized Care Plan:
- Schedule an appointment with your general practitioner to discuss your ongoing issues as soon as possible. Share your documented symptom diary and any insights you've gained to help direct the conversation.
- Ask for a referral to a gynecologist that might be able to see you sooner or explore if any specialists (like a reproductive endocrinologist) could expedite your care.
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Monitor Your Mental Health:
- Chronic illnesses can take a toll on mental well-being. Consider reaching out to professionals who focus on psychological aspects related to chronic illness, which could provide additional coping tools.
By considering both your gastrointestinal symptoms and their potential connections to hormonal changes, you’ll be better equipped to manage your health. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and seeking comprehensive care is a step in the right direction. Please reach out if you have any further questions or need more guidance.
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