Is It Advisable to Delay Until November?
Age: 31, Weight: 110 lbs, Height: 5'3" Greetings. I've been experiencing gastrointestinal troubles since November of the previous year. This issue has fluctuated; I would go through bouts of diarrhea that would ultimately resolve, only to return again later. I consulted my primary care physician (PCP) about these symptoms in May, but by then, it had been about a month since my last incident, and he didn’t express much concern. My blood tests indicated no signs of anemia, with normal levels for red blood cells, hematocrit, and hemoglobin. However, my symptoms have recently intensified. Admittedly, my eating habits have been erratic, primarily due to significant anxiety I've faced since last year. On top of that, I’m managing rheumatoid arthritis. Navigating dietary choices has been challenging; ironically, nearly all foods—other than fast cuisine—trigger my digestive issues, yet I aim to maintain a healthier diet. Consequently, I've noticed some weight loss. I completed a fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) because I was worried about the possibility of colon cancer, and thankfully, the result was negative. I have not observed any blood in my stool. Despite trying Metamucil and other fiber supplements, I find little relief. Although I'm attempting a ketogenic diet, the high-fat content seems to worsen my condition. The few foods I can tolerate appear to be yogurt, granola, oatmeal, rice, and various fruits. I made an effort to arrange a gastroenterology consultation, but a referral from my PCP is mandatory. I have reached out to other doctors outside my primary care but the wait times are excessively long. My follow-up appointment with my PCP is scheduled for November. I yearn for the ability to eat again without the constant anxiety of potential stomach upset. If cancer is indeed off the table, I feel waiting might be reasonable, but the uncertainty remains a concern.
Answers (1)
7/17/2025, 8:31:07 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about worsening gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly with your history of fluctuating issues, and it's good to know that your recent iFOBT was negative for blood. The next steps are key in managing your symptoms while you wait for your November appointment.
Key points:
- Your fluctuating gastrointestinal issues could be linked to dietary choices or anxiety.
- It's essential to identify foods that trigger your symptoms to stabilize your digestion.
- Managing anxiety and stress can also help improve your gastrointestinal health.
Explanation
Gastrointestinal issues can be particularly complex when combined with anxiety and rheumatoid arthritis. Stress often exacerbates digestive symptoms, and high-fat diets can be difficult for some individuals to tolerate. Since you've had fluctuations between diarrhea and periods of improvement, it's gracious to focus on what you can do in the meantime without the immediate option of a specialist.
Next Steps
-
Dietary Changes:
- Since high-fat foods worsen your symptoms, consider adopting a more balanced approach instead of a strict ketogenic diet. Focus on easily digestible foods such as:
- Plain rice
- Cooked vegetables (avoid raw to start)
- Lean proteins (chicken or fish)
- Low-fat yogurt
- Keep a food diary to track what works and doesn't work for you. This can help identify your specific triggers over time.
- Since high-fat foods worsen your symptoms, consider adopting a more balanced approach instead of a strict ketogenic diet. Focus on easily digestible foods such as:
-
Hydration:
- Stay well-hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea. Water, clear broths, and electrolyte-replenishing drinks (like oral rehydration solutions) can help maintain electrolyte balance.
-
Anxiety Management:
- Explore stress-relief techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga to ease your stress levels, which may help alleviate your gastrointestinal symptoms.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Pay attention to your symptoms, noting any changes and their relation to your diet and stress levels. This will provide valuable information for your upcoming consultation and can help guide your primary care physician in evaluating your case further.
-
Stay Engaged with Healthcare:
- Keep an open line of communication with your PCP about your ongoing symptoms. If they worsen or you experience significant changes, don't hesitate to reach out sooner.
Please know that you're not alone in this; many people experience similar issues, and there are paths to relief. Focus on what you can control right now, and let me know if you need further assistance on specific topics.
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