Chronic Diarrhea Unexplained for 12 Weeks
I am a 19-year-old female, standing at 5'8" and weighing 84 kg. Over the past three months, I have been experiencing chronic diarrhea that appeared suddenly. Throughout these 12 weeks, my stool has not reached a solid consistency; it's either very watery or extremely soft. The color usually ranges from orange to yellow, although I have also encountered very dark brown or near-black stools. Additionally, I experience abdominal pain that feels as though it is pressing against my spine, with minimal gas production. Sleep is elusive for me, and I often feel fatigued. Unfortunately, I have also had several incidents where I lost control and soiled myself. Certain foods do not seem to alleviate or exacerbate my condition; rather, it varies from day to day, swinging between extremely watery and somewhat manageable. My dietary habits have not been the best; I believe I might have Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), as I have been following a one-meal-a-day (OMAD) pattern for nearly three years. My intake is severely limited, typically involving only five different foods in a month, with daily caloric intake usually below 1000 calories. Notably, there were no significant dietary changes coinciding with the onset of my diarrhea. Interestingly, prior to the development of my symptoms, I noticed a significant weight increase—a swing from 82 kg to 88 kg, fluctuating between 85 kg and back again. Once the diarrhea began, my weight fluctuations persisted but appeared less severe. However, just yesterday, the diarrhea worsened considerably, making it feel as if my body was on fire; this morning I weighed 85.4 kg, which has now dropped to 84.5 kg today, accompanied by heightened abdominal pain. I have also felt an unusual pulsing sensation in my abdomen today, which generally only happens after physical exertion. I’m seeking thoughts on what might be causing these issues and which specific tests I should request from my doctor. I have submitted a stool sample but have yet to have any blood tests done.
Answers (1)
7/22/2025, 8:20:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing quite a significant and uncomfortable situation with your chronic diarrhea and related symptoms. Given the duration of your symptoms and the impact they are having on your daily life, it's important to consider this carefully. Here’s a summary of key points related to your condition followed by some actionable steps.
Summary
You are dealing with chronic diarrhea lasting 12 weeks, abdominal pain, unusual stool colors, fatigue, and concerns about your weight and dietary habits. These symptoms, particularly the change in bowel consistency, can indicate various underlying health issues that may need to be explored further.
Explanation
Chronic diarrhea can arise from a range of causes, including infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), inflammatory bowel conditions (like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), dietary intolerances or sensitivities (such as lactose intolerance or celiac disease), and even stress or psychological factors. The color and consistency of your stools, combined with your dietary restrictions and significant weight change, further complicate this picture.
Given that you have also noticed abdominal pain and other distressing symptoms, it’s critical to work towards obtaining a clearer diagnosis.
Next Steps
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Follow Up on Medical Tests:
- Stool Analysis: Make sure to discuss the results of your stool sample with your healthcare provider to rule out infections or parasites.
- Blood Tests: Request a comprehensive blood panel, including tests for:
- Complete blood count (CBC) to check for signs of infection or anemia.
- Electrolytes to ensure you are not dehydrated.
- Liver and kidney function tests.
- Tests for conditions such as celiac disease (like tissue transglutaminase antibodies).
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Documenting Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed symptom diary, noting the frequency, consistency, and color of your stools, along with associated symptoms like pain and fatigue. This can help your healthcare provider in the diagnostic process.
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Dietary Review:
- While working with a healthcare professional, consider seeking guidance from a registered dietitian who specializes in gastrointestinal issues. They can help you diversify your diet safely and get adequate nutrition.
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Hydration:
- Focus on staying well-hydrated to prevent dehydration, especially with frequent diarrhea. Oral rehydration solutions can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.
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Monitor Weight:
- Keep track of any significant weight changes and report them to your doctor, as this can be critical for diagnosis and planning your treatment.
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Seek Support:
- If you suspect ARFID or have concerns about your eating patterns, mental health support can be beneficial. Connecting with a mental health professional who understands dietary issues can provide additional strategies.
If symptoms worsen or you experience severe pain, fever, or weakness, seek immediate medical attention. Remember, you're not alone in this, and addressing these issues with healthcare professionals can lead to effective management and improvement in your quality of life. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further clarification!
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