Seeking Advice on Concerning Symptoms
Greetings, I'm a 19-year-old feeling quite anxious about my health and reaching out for some insights. I've been having a few troubling symptoms that began earlier this year. Starting in March, I noticed blood in my stool. The blood resembled menstrual blood and was present for about two days, even though I wasn't menstruating at the time. More recently, just last week, I experienced another incident where a small amount of blood appeared mixed with mucus in my stool. Since March, my bowel movements have remained regular, typically occurring twice daily, and the consistency has been normal. That said, I have experienced some mild, intermittent abdominal discomfort—although there are days when I feel fine and have no issues at all. Additionally, I have observed a change in my weight since February; I've lost approximately 7 to 8 pounds, declining from 131 pounds in February to 124 pounds as of August, with no modifications to my eating or exercise routines. In June, I was treated for an H. pylori infection, which was cleared by July. My primary care physician assured me that there were no external hemorrhoids present during my examination. I have undergone various tests, including: - Complete Blood Count (CBC): Results were normal; no signs of anemia - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): All values were within normal ranges - Stool Lipid Tests: Results indicated no malabsorption - Celiac Disease Testing: Returned negative - Fecal Calprotectin Test: Normal, indicating no significant intestinal inflammation With all this in mind, I'm left wondering what might be causing my symptoms. The uncertainty has been overwhelming, leading to frequent bouts of anxiety and excessive searching for answers while I await an appointment that's still a month away. I'm just hoping that my primary care physician will take my concerns seriously and provide a referral for a colonoscopy!
Answers (1)
8/16/2025, 9:31:13 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that experiencing concerning symptoms, especially with the complications of anxiety, can feel overwhelming. It's positive that you've actively sought medical evaluation and tests, as this is an important step in understanding what's happening with your health. Let's break down your situation and consider some steps you can take while you await further medical attention.
Summary of Main Points:
- You have experienced intermittent blood in your stool and weight loss.
- Various tests have returned normal, indicating no immediate concerns like significant inflammation or anemia.
- It's essential to address both your physical symptoms and the anxiety they may cause.
Explanation:
Blood in the stool can arise from various issues, some benign like hemorrhoids or fissures, while others may be more serious, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Given your recent tests were normal, this is encouraging, but it’s understandable to remain concerned, especially with symptoms persisting. The weight loss and intermittent abdominal discomfort should not be dismissed and can be connected to your gastrointestinal health.
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Potential Causes: Since you're already under investigation, conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), mild food intolerances, or even psychological factors like stress and anxiety could be playing a role in your symptoms.
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Anxiety Management: It's common to feel anxious while waiting for answers. Recognizing this can help. Focus on self-care techniques that may reduce anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or light physical activity, which can be beneficial.
Next Steps:
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Track Symptoms: Maintain a diary of your symptoms, noting their frequency, severity, and any patterns you observe (for example, any foods that might trigger discomfort). This detailed information will be valuable for your physician during your next appointment.
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Dietary Considerations: While waiting, consider keeping a food diary to see if any specific foods correlate with your symptoms. This could help identify any potential intolerances or triggers.
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Anxiety Strategies: Implement relaxation techniques daily, such as mindfulness exercises or gentle yoga, to help manage anxiety levels as you wait for your appointment.
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Communicate with Your Doctor: Prepare a brief, clear summary of your symptoms and concerns, including your weight loss and the blood in your stool. Express the importance of a thorough evaluation, including your interest in a possible colonoscopy based on continuous symptoms.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Ensure you're drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet to help support your overall health as you manage these symptoms.
You are doing the right thing by seeking help and gathering information. Remember, you're not alone in this, and it's important to prioritize both your physical health and mental well-being. If your symptoms change or worsen significantly, please seek medical attention sooner.
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