Understanding Recurrent Mesenteric Adenitis: A Personal Account
At 23 years old and weighing 140 pounds, I have experienced mesenteric adenitis on multiple occasions throughout my childhood. Although I cannot access my old medical records, I recall being informed that these episodes lasted for weeks, occurring at least four times. Following that, there was an episode that stretched from July to October in 2021, and another for three weeks in 2023, both of which transpired after having COVID-19, and currently, I’m dealing with it again after a brief span of four days. Importantly, I have not encountered any viral infections or illnesses prior to these symptoms surfacing, and I haven't had vomiting, nausea, or fever during these episodes. In 2021, I experienced a significant weight drop of 45 pounds due to this condition, prompting further medical investigations. Although a biopsy yielded no concerning results, my laboratory tests revealed elevated white blood cells, reduced red blood cells, increased lipase levels, and a higher lymphocyte percentage, yet the overall findings were largely unremarkable. A colonoscopy also returned normal results, as did a gastric dumping test. However, my current experience has been particularly challenging. My lab results appear consistent with previous ones. Initially, I suspected my appendix had burst due to the severity of my symptoms. I endured frequent diarrhea, having 18 episodes on the first day, followed by 10 on the second, and 11 on the third day, and only experiencing three episodes today. I have not consumed any food since the midday of the third day. Each time I attempt to eat or drink, I face severe spasms and pain across my upper and lower right abdomen that is debilitating. Even when not eating, a dull ache persists, and standing for more than a few moments triggers an overwhelming urge to use the restroom, despite there being nothing left. On Monday, I plan to reach out to a new gastroenterologist in hopes of expediting an appointment to further investigate potential solutions to my issues. Are there known factors that could lead to increased occurrences of mesenteric adenitis in some individuals? Is it merely unfortunate luck, or should I consider advocating for additional medical evaluations?
Answers (1)
8/9/2025, 7:40:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a challenging time with recurrent mesenteric adenitis, especially given your symptoms and history. Let's break this down and focus on what you might consider doing next.
Main Points
- Mesenteric Adenitis Overview: This condition involves inflammation of lymph nodes in the abdomen, often linked to infections, but can occur for various reasons.
- Your Concerns: Recurrent episodes and severe symptoms warrant thorough evaluation.
- Next Steps: Preparing for your gastroenterology appointment and documenting your symptoms can help guide your discussions for better care.
Explanation
Mesenteric adenitis can sometimes be the result of infections, including viral ones, but it might also occur without a clear cause. Factors that could contribute to increased occurrences include:
- Viral Infections: As you noted, your episodes followed COVID-19, which might suggest a connection between viral illnesses and your symptoms.
- Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may have a hereditary tendency towards recurrent inflammation.
- Other Underlying Conditions: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may mimic or be associated with mesenteric adenitis. Chronic stress, dietary factors, or specific infections could also play roles.
Given your history of significant weight loss and current severe symptoms, it’s essential to continue advocating for further evaluations.
Specific Next Steps
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including the frequency and nature of abdominal pain, bowel movements, and any triggers. This will be invaluable for your gastroenterologist.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: Write down all your past medical history, including the findings from your previous investigations and the timeline of your symptoms. Bring this record to help the new gastroenterologist understand your case fully.
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Hydration & Rest: Since you are unable to eat, focus on staying hydrated. If you can tolerate liquids, consider clear broths or electrolyte solutions. Rest is crucial for recovery, as fatigue can worsen your symptoms.
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Discuss Further Investigations: At your appointment, express your concerns about the recurrent episodes and ask about the possibility of conducting additional tests, such as imaging studies or blood tests, to rule out other conditions that might be causing your symptoms.
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Emergency Signs: If your symptoms worsen (e.g., increased abdominal pain, fever, or new symptoms like vomiting or inability to keep fluids down), seek immediate medical care.
It's commendable that you're actively seeking to manage your health and advocate for yourself, especially when facing recurrent issues like this. You're taking the right steps by connecting with a specialist. If you need further information or support, feel free to ask!
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