Five Days of Severe Diarrhea
I'm a 29-year-old female currently struggling with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), bipolar disorder type 2, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). My medication regimen includes Diamox, Seroquel, Lamictal, and Effexor. In an attempt to manage my symptoms, I’ve taken Imodium as needed, in addition to having Zofran and ibuprofen for pain relief. After experiencing diarrhea accompanied by moderate abdominal discomfort, I visited the emergency room on Tuesday following an initial consultation at urgent care, where I was advised to seek further treatment. At the ER, they administered fluids and potassium, along with Zofran to alleviate my nausea. Blood tests indicated mild dehydration, though everything else appeared stable. A CT scan conducted revealed no alarming findings, leading to my discharge from the hospital. A urine test also showed no significant issues. The following day, Wednesday, my condition seemed to improve. I managed to consume some soup, a smoothie, and a small portion of pasta. I also drank apple juice and a few sips of Vernors. However, around 11 PM, I found myself back in the restroom dealing with severe, watery diarrhea and intense abdominal pain that persisted for about two hours after my attempts to relieve the symptoms and even a vomiting episode at the hospital. While I've been nauseated since that incident, I haven’t vomited again. This ongoing situation has left me feeling utterly drained. I find myself sleeping roughly 16 hours a day and struggling with frequent headaches, likely due to my IIH worsening. Even engaging in simple activities like video gaming feels impossible due to my exhaustion. Currently, I’m focusing on consuming only water and following the BRAT diet in hopes of feeling well enough to return to work by Saturday. I would appreciate any advice on how to proceed from here as I feel at my wit’s end, overwhelmed by pain and the frequent need to use the bathroom.
Answers (1)
9/4/2025, 6:01:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you're feeling overwhelmed and drained from the severe diarrhea you've experienced. Since you've recently dealt with dehydration and are currently managing several health conditions, it's important to approach your recovery with care.
Main Points:
- Focus on hydration and gradual reintroduction of foods.
- Monitor your symptoms closely.
- Consider triggers and medication interactions.
Explanation:
The combination of your medications and the underlying health conditions can impact your gastrointestinal system, especially during periods of stress or illness. The diarrhea could be stress-related or even a side effect of your medications. Given the recent hospitalization, it's crucial to ensure you don't become dehydrated again while your digestive system recovers.
Next Steps:
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Hydration:
- Continue to prioritize hydration with clear fluids. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can be helpful as they replenish electrolytes lost due to diarrhea more effectively than plain water. You can also try electrolyte drinks like Pedialyte or coconut water, but avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages.
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Diet:
- Stick to the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) initially as it's gentle on the stomach. Gradually introduce other bland foods as tolerated, such as boiled potatoes, plain pasta, or steamed carrots. Avoid dairy, spicy, or fatty foods for now, as they can worsen diarrhea.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a log of your symptoms, noting any changes in the frequency or consistency of diarrhea, along with any food that may seem to trigger it. If your symptoms worsen or if you experience blood in your stool, increased abdominal pain, or persistent nausea, it's important to seek medical attention.
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Rest and Self-Care:
- Allow yourself time to rest, as your body needs it to recover. Avoid strenuous activities and prioritize sleep, as your body is already fatigued. You can engage in light activities if you feel up to it, but listening to your body is crucial.
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Medication Review:
- Given your current medications and the recent changes in your health status, consider discussing with your healthcare provider if any of your medications could be contributing to gastrointestinal issues, especially if the diarrhea persists.
It's understandable to feel frustrated, but taking these steps can help guide your recovery. Remember to be gentle with yourself as you heal, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further support if needed.
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