Concern Over Possible Raw Milk Reaction
Subject: Urgent Concern: Raw Milk Symptoms and Seeking Advice Age 25, residing in the UK, with no prior history of gastrointestinal issues. I just discovered that the milkshake I consumed about 18 hours ago was made from raw milk, which I was unaware of at the time. It’s safe to say I won’t be trying that again. A friend brought me this milkshake from a farm, and although she feels perfectly fine, I’ve had quite the opposite experience. This morning, I woke up to vomit three times, alongside severe diarrhea—well, let’s just say I had to keep a bucket handy. Upon getting up, I was shocked to see the toilet bowl filled with blood! I contacted the 111 service, and they informed me that a doctor would reach out within the next eight hours. However, my stomach is in agony, and I am currently curled up in a fetal position when I’m not rushing to the bathroom, which seems to be every ten minutes or so. Unfortunately, there’s no actual stool, only this alarming mucousy blood. Should I remain patient for a callback from the doctor, or is it crucial for me to head to the hospital? Although I feel a bit sweaty and shaky, I often struggle with health anxiety, making it difficult to gauge the seriousness of my symptoms. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, as I’m quite anxious about this situation.
Answers (1)
7/20/2025, 8:30:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your distressing symptoms after consuming raw milk. It's understandable to feel anxious given the situation you're in. Your symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and especially the presence of blood in your stool, are serious and warrant immediate attention.
Key Points:
- Blood in the stool and severe abdominal pain indicates a potential severe reaction that could be related to the raw milk or another underlying issue.
- Given the urgency and seriousness of your symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical care.
Explanation: Raw milk can carry harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, or E. coli, which can lead to gastrointestinal distress and more severe complications. The fact that you have bloody stools and severe diarrhea suggests that you could be experiencing a significant infection or other reaction that requires urgent assessment.
Next Steps:
- Seek Emergency Care: Given the presence of blood in your stool and your symptoms, go to your nearest hospital or emergency department right away. Do not wait for the doctor’s callback.
- Stay Hydrated: If possible, try to sip on clear fluids (like water or oral rehydration solutions) to prevent dehydration, which can occur rapidly with persistent diarrhea and vomiting.
- Avoid Eating Solid Foods: Until you've been evaluated by a healthcare provider, stick to fluids. Solid food could worsen your symptoms.
- Document Symptoms: If you can, note the timing and severity of your symptoms for the medical staff. This information can be helpful for diagnosis and treatment.
Feel assured that you are taking the right step by seeking immediate help. Your health and safety are the top priority right now.
Related Questions
Rash on the Dorsal Side of My Hands
A 24-year-old male, standing 5'3" and weighing 125 pounds, is not currently taking any medications. While I do not smoke, I am often exposed to secondhand smoke from those around me, and I have recently spent time in an environment where a significant amount of unpleasant smoke is produced due to casting activities. For approximately three weeks, I have been experiencing a rash on the backs of both my hands. I initially became aware of it after working on my car's engine. The rash has led to dryness and itching, and I took a photo after my shower today, highlighting the redness that has become particularly noticeable. What are some effective treatments for this condition?
Understanding Symptoms of Salmonella: What to Do Next
My boyfriend, who is 26, experienced a fever that peaked at approximately 99.5°F yesterday morning. Thankfully, after resting and taking NyQuil, his fever subsided by this morning. However, he has been dealing with severe abdominal pain and persistent diarrhea since last evening, which has not shown much improvement. He has been making frequent trips to the restroom, nearly every hour throughout the night and again today. While I initially thought he might be improving since the fever has decreased, I became alarmed upon noticing bright red blood in his stool and on the toilet paper after he wipes. It has been around 40 hours since the fever began, and my concern has heightened now that blood has appeared. I’ve come across some online information suggesting these symptoms might be typical for salmonella infections, and I’m uncertain whether we should seek medical attention immediately or if it’s advisable to wait another day or two to see if his condition improves. I realize that consulting a doctor as soon as possible would be the best course of action. However, he currently lacks insurance, which makes him hesitant to get checked right away. Any guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
Navigating Alcohol Challenges
My partner has recently developed issues with alcohol. Over the past year, he has been consuming significant amounts—roughly two bottles of distilled spirits each week, in addition to beer. A decade ago, he struggled with inhalants and even faced near-fatal consequences, but he had maintained sobriety until he turned to drinking. He believes he has plenty of time before the effects of alcohol will manifest. How long can he continue this way before it becomes a serious problem? He is a 53-year-old male, weighing 325 pounds, standing at 5 feet 11 inches, and he is currently on medication for hypertension. Although we plan to separate later this year, it’s clear that this situation will have an impact on our three children.
Questioning Cipro for C. diff Treatment
My mother, who is 53 years old, has developed C. difficile which seems to have occurred without any recent antibiotic use, suggesting a potential viral source for the infection. In the emergency room, she was prescribed Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) taken twice daily for a week, along with Metronidazole (Flagyl) at the same dosage and duration. However, I am puzzled by the inclusion of Cipro in her treatment regimen. Isn't there a possibility that this medication could aggravate the situation? I’ve come across information indicating that Cipro might potentially lead to C. diff infections rather than help treat them. Is this correct? Would it be advisable for her to consult her primary care physician to discuss alternative antibiotic options?
Should I Consider Preventative Treatment for My Cats with Worms?
F19, I currently only have a Nexplanon for medication, and I often feel self-conscious about my height and my weight, feeling a bit stubby. This situation feels particularly unsettling for me since I have an existing fear of pests on animals. I'm questioning if my reaction is overly intense or if I'm not taking this seriously enough. Right now, I’m taking care of my mom’s house from Wednesday until early Monday. They have a spacious home and five cats that live partially indoors (since they are on a farm, some cats stay fully outdoors while others are indoor pets). Recently, I believe I spotted one of the cats vomiting a worm, likely intestinal worms. I would typically ask the vet forum for advice, but they don’t allow medical inquiries, so I’m wondering just how concerned I should be about this situation. I’m avoiding any contact with them, keeping things clean, but the thought of getting worms is really disturbing to me. Is this something to be genuinely concerned about? The house itself is tidy, and it doesn’t have that unpleasant, musty smell often associated with haywire cat environments. They also own two dogs, one of which enjoys licking my legs, which I find pretty gross. I lack regular access to medical services due to my current unemployment and not being in school. If I had that option, I would simply schedule a checkup. However, if this is a matter of real concern, I am open to seeking medical assistance. If there are any over-the-counter preventative treatments available at stores like Walmart, I would appreciate any suggestions. I find it difficult to discuss this with my mom because she often dismisses my concerns about pests and bugs, so I can’t rely on her for help. Please advise me on the best course of action! 😭