Living with Diarrhea and Abdominal Discomfort for Over a Week
I’m utilizing my alternative account for this post because I find the topic quite mortifying, but I truly need some advice. Here’s a brief overview about my situation: - Age: 33, Female - Starting Weight: 285 lbs, Current Weight: 240 lbs - Height: 5 feet 6 inches Medications currently in use: - Semiglutide, 2 units weekly - Phentermine, 37.5 mg every day (Both have been prescribed since April) - Daily Fiber One supplements - Excedrin on an as-needed basis (less than once a week) - ZQuil on an as-needed basis (less than once a week) Health background includes: - Morbid obesity - Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Depression - Previous history of hemiplegic migraines, but none since 2023 - One pregnancy 2.5 years past - Allergies to Sulfa - Quit smoking in 2023 Hydration: - Around 64 ounces of water daily Physical activity level: Moderate, although it has been challenging lately. I have dealt with IBS since I turned 19, and the severity of my symptoms escalated around age 30, leading to intense pain that would trigger the vagus response. As a result, I began monitoring my food intake closely, especially avoiding greasy options. After the birth of my daughter, I opted for medically-assisted weight loss, starting in April. I need to clarify that while I’ve had no nausea from the medication, indulging in unhealthy foods causes intense symptoms that resemble dumping syndrome. Otherwise, when I eat well, I’m symptom-free. However, eight days ago, I began experiencing diarrhea characterized by watery stool. At first, I thought it might be due to something I had consumed, but there was no accompanying pain, and I couldn't identify a specific trigger. The following day, the condition worsened, becoming primarily liquid. Day three entailed multiple trips to the restroom while socializing with friends. This pattern continued into day four. On day five, things escalated significantly. I woke up around 3 AM and couldn’t return to sleep due to frequent, urgent bowel movements every 10 to 30 minutes. Consequently, I’ve upped my fluid intake, but I’ve noted signs of dehydration as my urination frequency has drastically reduced. Today marks day eight, and I am increasingly worried. Alongside my other symptoms, I am now experiencing that classic IBS sensation of urgency without the capability to go. I have rushed to the restroom several times today without any results, which is quite concerning after dealing with such severe diarrhea. My abdomen feels tender—not nauseous, just sore due to this ongoing issue. I am now genuinely apprehensive about dehydration and potential vitamin deficiencies, wondering if I am even absorbing essential nutrients. However, I am hesitant to start a multivitamin, as they usually upset my stomach to begin with. I feel weak and drained from lack of restful sleep, and I have been unable to focus on work these past couple of days. I have also tried incorporating fiber-rich foods in addition to my Fiber One supplements, but with no relief. What steps can I take to alleviate this issue? I’m not seeking an instant fix, just some relief that would gradually help me overcome this condition. I’m open to trying healing methods through dietary changes or over-the-counter medications, or both. Please, no need to be gentle—just give me the facts and scientific advice. I find myself without medical insurance right now, and most of my paycheck is allocated to bills at the beginning of the month. Additionally, I’ve been anxious about possible other bowel conditions, such as Crohn’s disease. What warning signs should I be aware of? Thank you for taking the time to read my concerns. I feel exceptionally embarrassed to share this, but I can’t continue dealing with this distressing situation any longer.
Answers (1)
7/25/2025, 11:01:54 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear you're going through such a difficult time with your digestive health. Experiencing diarrhea and abdominal discomfort for over a week can be distressing, especially with your history of IBS. It's essential to take steps to alleviate your symptoms while also monitoring your condition for any potential complications.
Key Points
- Diarrhea Duration: Lasting more than a week, especially with liquid stool and signs of dehydration, is concerning.
- IBS Management: Your IBS may be contributing to your symptoms, but changes can lead to more severe issues requiring attention.
- Self-Care Steps: Focus on hydration, dietary adjustments, and potential over-the-counter supplements.
Explanation
Chronic diarrhea can significantly impact your well-being, particularly when it's accompanied by urgency and abdominal discomfort. IBS can cause fluctuations in bowel habits, including diarrhea. In your case, the escalated symptoms might suggest a reaction to food, medication adjustments, or even an underlying infection or inflammation. The risk of dehydration is serious, especially if urination has decreased.
Next Steps
-
Hydration:
- Increase Fluid Intake: Aim for clear fluids, including water, broth, and oral rehydration solutions (like Pedialyte) to replenish electrolytes. Drink small sips frequently to aid absorption and avoid overloading your stomach.
-
Dietary Adjustments:
- Bland Diet: Initially focus on a bland diet known as the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast). Gradually reintroduce low-fiber foods like boiled potatoes or plain pasta to reduce bowel irritation.
- Avoid Triggers: Stick to foods you know are gentle on your system. Steer clear of spicy, fatty, or sugary foods, as they can exacerbate diarrhea and IBS symptoms.
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Over-the-Counter Solutions:
- Loperamide: This medication can help reduce diarrhea and improve your urgency. However, avoid it if you have a fever or blood in your stool, as these are signs of a potential infection requiring professional care.
- Probiotics: Consider probiotic supplements or yogurt to help restore gut flora, which may aid in digestion and alleviate symptoms.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a Journal: Track your food intake, symptoms, and fluid consumption, noting any patterns or triggers that might aggravate your condition.
- Watch for Warning Signs: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, high fever, blood in your stool, or worsening dehydration symptoms such as dizziness, lethargy, or confusion.
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Rest and Manage Stress:
- Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you create a comfortable sleeping environment to promote better rest, which is essential for recovery.
- Stress Management: Consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching exercises to ease emotional stress, which can contribute to IBS symptoms.
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about your symptoms and underlying conditions like Crohn's disease. The most important thing is to focus on recovery while remaining vigilant of significant changes. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, prioritizing a healthcare consultation becomes crucial, even if it requires seeking community resources available for low-income patients.
Please take care and know that you are not alone in this; these issues are more common than they seem, and support is available. Let me know how else I can assist you!
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