Concerns Regarding Recent Hospital Visits and Ongoing Health Issues
I am seeking assistance regarding my current health crisis. As a woman in her late twenties, I’ve recently experienced an intense exacerbation of either IBS or IBD—though preliminary tests suggest it leans more towards IBS. Since the beginning of the week, I’ve been repeatedly visiting the bathroom with severe diarrhea, and I’ve been unable to eat or drink due to excruciating pain in the affected area. Last Thursday night, I found myself in the emergency department for a different reason. During my evaluation, a series of blood tests revealed that I was dehydrated, with blood ketones measuring at 3.7. They performed about ten blood tests and two ECGs and ultimately treated me with a glucose infusion before discharging me. At that moment, I felt fine. However, my digestive issues persisted over the following days, and I continued to be unable to consume food or liquids, which led to a fourth consecutive day without eating. On Friday, I woke up feeling dreadful; my heart rate soared to the 150s, and I was dizzy and breathless. A doctor decided to send me back to A&E because my blood ketones had exceeded 5. Following that visit, I was treated once again with a 10% glucose solution and Hartmann's infusion. I was evaluated by a gastroenterologist who opted not to make any alterations to my treatment plan, suggesting that I could manage my condition at home. Yet, my heart rate remained around 130 at the time of my discharge, and I was still feeling faint. Now, I am facing day seven without any food or drink, as my stomach simply cannot handle it. I am troubled about what to do next, and I'm apprehensive that once the IV fluids wear off, I will experience the same distressing symptoms, risking another increase in my ketone levels and possible dehydration. I hesitate to reach out to the hospital again, as it appears they are only addressing the immediate matters instead of tackling the root of my issues. I feel like I am imposing on a healthcare system that is already stretched thin. Currently, the thought of eating is overwhelming, and I also have worries about refeeding syndrome (despite its rarity) since I anticipate that these challenges may persist for a while. While I have some background in health, I lack specific knowledge regarding these complications, so any guidance would be immensely valued.
Answers (1)
9/14/2025, 10:20:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through an incredibly challenging time with your gastrointestinal issues, and it's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. Your situation indicates significant health concerns, especially with prolonged diarrhea, dehydration, and the associated symptoms you're experiencing.
Main Points
- Persistent Symptoms and Dehydration: You've been unable to eat or drink for several days, which raises concerns about your hydration and electrolyte balance.
- Risk of Refeeding Syndrome: This is a valid concern given the prolonged fasting and potential reintroduction of food.
- Importance of Monitoring and Support: Continued monitoring of your symptoms is essential, along with seeking appropriate ways to manage your condition effectively.
Explanation
With your symptoms of severe diarrhea and the inability to eat or drink, you're at high risk for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can ultimately lead to more serious complications. Your elevated blood ketone levels indicate your body is in a state of starvation, which emphasizes the need for addressing your dietary intake soon while also being cautious of refeeding risk.
Refeeding syndrome happens when food is reintroduced too quickly after a period of malnutrition or starvation, leading to shifts in fluids and electrolytes that can be dangerous. Your heart rate increase and feelings of dizziness highlight your body’s stress during this time.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Seek Immediate Medical Assistance:
- Contact your healthcare provider or nearest urgent care facility. Given your persistent inability to eat or drink and your history of high ketones, this is a situation where medical attention is necessary, especially to monitor for dehydration and guide safe refeeding.
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Hydration and Electrolyte Balance:
- If you're able to take small sips of liquids, focus on rehydrating slowly with an oral rehydration solution (ORS) if available, as it helps replenish lost electrolytes. If liquids cause distress, it is even more crucial to seek medical advice.
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Introduce Foods Gradually:
- Once you are able to start consuming food, focus on a gradual introduction of easy-to-digest foods like bland rice, bananas, or toast.
- If you are at risk of refeeding syndrome, your healthcare team can monitor you and guide gradual refeeding.
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Keep a Symptom Diary:
- Documenting your symptoms, when they occur, and any food or liquid intake can help healthcare providers understand your situation better and tailor interventions to your needs.
Please remember, you are not imposing on the healthcare system; your health concerns deserve attention, especially when experiencing such distressing symptoms. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, as your well-being is a priority.
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