Went to the ER Due to Severe Stomach Pain; CT Revealed Ileus and Ongoing Symptoms
Greetings, I'm an 18-year-old Caucasian male, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 120 pounds. My daily medication consists solely of 30mg of Vyvanse. About two weeks prior, between November 28th and 29th, I awoke to experience mild abdominal discomfort, yet I decided to proceed with my work shift. As a pharmacy technician, my job isn't particularly strenuous, though it does involve frequent bending, crouching, and reaching. I quickly realized that any slight physical activity seemed to exacerbate the pain. During my lunch break, I left for a job interview. However, while driving, I began to feel a sharper, stabbing sensation in my abdomen. Despite this discomfort, I pushed through the interview and intended to head to the emergency room afterward, which I did. Upon arriving at the ER and checking in, the pain intensified to an unbearable level. In extreme discomfort, I was grunting, crying, and occasionally screaming, which drew the attention of other patients. Thankfully, my wait time was significantly reduced, and two nurses came over to assist me into a wheelchair. I was administered 0.5mg of dilaudid, but unfortunately, it did little to alleviate my suffering. After a series of scans and tests, the doctors concluded that I exhibited "air-filled mildly distended loops of large and small bowel" throughout my abdomen, noting no substantial stool retention or obstruction; they suspected an ileus pattern. Recently, while the pain has somewhat diminished, it still hurts to lie down or sit in various positions, leading to troubles with sleep. Additionally, I haven't experienced regular bowel movements for nearly two months; my stools have turned entirely liquid, with minimal output. The whole experience has been incredibly stressful, leaving me uncertain about the best course of action. Although I considered returning to the ER, it doesn't feel critical enough to warrant a visit just yet, despite the ongoing discomfort that appears to be worsening. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 9:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the severe pain you've been experiencing. It's understandable to feel anxious given the circumstances, especially with an ileus and ongoing symptoms. Let's focus on what you can do to manage your situation effectively while paying attention to your comfort and overall health.
Key Points:
- Understanding Your Condition: An ileus is a temporary slowdown in the bowel that can cause pain and altered bowel movements. Your experience of liquid stools and discomfort is significant but can often be managed at home with the right approach.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: While some improvement is noted, it's vital to keep track of your symptoms, especially any worsening pain or changes in bowel habits.
Actionable Steps:
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of clear fluids to help prevent dehydration, especially if you're experiencing liquid stools. Aim for water, clear broth, and electrolyte solutions if needed.
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Diet Adjustments: Consider a bland diet for now. Foods that are easy on the stomach include:
- Plain rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet).
- Gradually reintroduce fibers like cooked vegetables and, if tolerated, small amounts of lean protein.
- Avoid heavy, fatty, or spicy foods until your bowel function normalizes.
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Gentle Movement: While physical activity was previously painful, gentle movements like walking can aid in digestion and stimulate bowel function without putting too much strain on your abdomen.
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Pain Management: If discomfort continues, discuss pain management strategies with a healthcare provider. Over-the-counter options, such as acetaminophen, may be an alternative, but please consult a pharmacist or doctor for personalized advice based on your current medications.
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Symptom Diary: Keep a journal of your bowel movements, pain levels, and any triggers that may worsen your symptoms. This will help you and any healthcare provider you consult later understand your condition better.
When to Seek Help:
- If you experience severe pain that doesn’t improve, significant changes in bowel habits (like no stools for several days), or any new symptoms like fever, vomiting, or worsening liquid stools, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.
It's commendable that you're managing through this experience, and being proactive about your health is important. Focus on these initial steps to find some relief, and keep track of any changes you notice. Feel free to reach out if you need further clarification or support.
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