Potential Motility Concerns
A 42-year-old woman weighing 280 pounds and measuring 5 feet 6 inches has a medical background that includes hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Small Fiber Neuropathy, and persistent constipation. Current medications include Zoloft, Propranolol, Tizanidine, Mobic, Zyzal, and Lyrica. Since contracting Covid, I have been experiencing severe gastrointestinal complications. My digestive system appears to be progressively slowing down. Recently, I had a concerning episode where I did not have a bowel movement for eight days. In addition, I am suffering from significant abdominal bloating, discomfort, and nausea. I visited the emergency room to rule out any obstructions and underwent a CT scan. I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide a second opinion regarding the scan results.
Answers (1)
7/22/2025, 6:40:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with challenging gastrointestinal issues that have become more pronounced after your COVID-19 infection. Given your medical history and current symptoms, it’s important to focus on managing your constipation and motility concerns effectively.
Main Points:
- Severe constipation and bloating require attention.
- Your existing medical conditions can impact digestion and motility.
- Several strategies can help manage symptoms effectively.
Explanation:
You have a complex medical background that includes hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Small Fiber Neuropathy, both of which can affect gastrointestinal function. After COVID-19, it's not uncommon for individuals to experience changes in digestive motility, leading to issues like constipation, bloating, and nausea. The eight-day interval without a bowel movement is concerning and indicates that your system may be slowing down further.
Since you've already confirmed there are no obstructions through CT imaging, let’s focus on strategies to enhance bowel performance and alleviate discomfort.
Next Steps (Prioritized Actions):
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Increase Hydration: Aim for at least 8-10 cups of water daily. Proper hydration can aid digestion and soften stool.
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Dietary Fiber: Gradually increase your intake of fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to help stimulate bowel activity. However, introduce fiber slowly to prevent gas and bloating.
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Physical Activity: As tolerated, consider incorporating gentle exercise, like walking, into your routine. Movement can help stimulate bowel function.
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Over-the-Counter Solutions: You might explore using fiber supplements (like psyllium husk) and osmotic laxatives (like polyethylene glycol) to encourage bowel movements. Always check for interactions with your medications.
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Tracking Symptoms: Maintain a diary of your bowel habits, dietary intake, and any new symptoms. This can be beneficial for tracking your progress and identifying triggers.
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Consider Medication Review: Discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider for potential impacts on gastrointestinal motility. Adjustments or additional remedies might be beneficial.
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Progressive Testing: If symptoms persist or worsen despite these changes, follow up for further evaluations like gastric emptying studies or colorectal function tests.
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, but these steps can help manage your symptoms effectively. Let me know if you need further guidance on any specific step, and take care.
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