Struggling with Daily Extended Bowel Movements
Age: 21, Weight: 150 lbs, Height: 5’11" Medication: Sertraline Approximately five years ago, I began experiencing bowel movements that last an unusually long time, which have since taken a toll on my daily life. The process has turned quite painful, particularly in the abdominal region, and I often deal with persistent swelling and sharp sensations in my colon, even shortly after going to the bathroom. Once seated, getting up is nearly impossible, and it can take several hours before I feel properly relieved. Although I maintain a reasonably good diet and have tried numerous over-the-counter fiber supplements and various remedies to combat constipation, relief remains elusive. Throughout the years, I've consulted a range of doctors and gastrointestinal experts, yet my condition seems to be deteriorating. I have undergone multiple procedures, including rectal examinations, allergy testing, a colonoscopy, an endoscopy, a CT scan, a test for gut bacteria, and a complete blood panel, all with no definitive answers. Medications like Linzess and Pantoprazole have been prescribed, but instead of helping, they’ve only intensified my symptoms. I’m reaching out for suggestions on what steps to take next, as this ongoing issue has severely disrupted my daily routine and I haven't found much assistance from my medical providers. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, and I’m happy to share additional details if needed!
Answers (1)
2/2/2026, 11:30:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about your ongoing struggles with painful and prolonged bowel movements. It sounds very distressing, especially when it affects everyday life. Given the complexity of your situation and previous investigations, let’s focus on a few key areas to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Summary:
You’re experiencing prolonged and painful bowel movements, despite a reasonable diet and various treatments. Since previous medical evaluations have not provided answers, specific next steps may help in managing your symptoms.
Explanation:
Considering the information you've provided, it seems like you could be dealing with a functional gastrointestinal disorder like obstructed defecation syndrome or pelvic floor dysfunction, especially if no organic cause has been found in tests. Anxiety and medication (like Sertraline) can also contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms, potentially complicating your situation.
Next Steps:
-
Diet Adjustments:
- While you've tried fiber supplements, consider modifying your diet to include a variety of soluble and insoluble fibers found in fruits (like apples or berries), vegetables (broccoli, carrots), and whole grains. Ensure adequate hydration (aim for at least 8 cups of water daily).
-
Mindful Eating Practices:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to lessen the burden on your digestive system. Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to aid digestion.
-
Regular Exercise:
- Engage in moderate physical activity, like walking or yoga, which can stimulate bowel function and help reduce abdominal discomfort.
-
Pelvic Floor Therapy:
- Consider seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist. They can help address any underlying issues with muscle coordination and relaxation that may be contributing to your symptoms.
-
Stress Management Techniques:
- Since you’re on Sertraline, stress and anxiety might play a role. Incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness, into your daily routine.
-
Reviewing Medications:
- Discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of reviewing the use of Sertraline and any other medications, as they can contribute to gastrointestinal issues.
-
Keeping a Symptom Diary:
- Documenting details about your bowel movements, pain levels, diet, stressors, and any medications taken can help identify patterns or triggers. Share this with your doctor to guide discussions in future consultations.
If you don't find improvement or if symptoms worsen, consider seeking a second opinion from a specialized center that focuses on functional gastrointestinal disorders. Remember, ongoing communication and persistence in seeking relief are key.
Support:
I understand how frustrating this can be, and taking these manageable steps may lead to improvement. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any additional questions or if you need further guidance.
Related Questions
Injury After Swing Set Jump: Seeking Advice
I’m a 23-year-old male, standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 145 pounds. I maintain a healthy lifestyle, refraining from alcohol, tobacco, and any sort of medications or recreational substances. My fitness routine consists mainly of basic calisthenics, taking short walks (typically one to two miles) with my dogs, and skateboarding for transportation rather than tricks. Though I have a tendency to slouch, it hasn't led to any discomfort yet, but I'm aware that it could have repercussions down the line, so I’m actively trying to correct my posture when I notice myself slumping. On December 14, 2025, while hanging out at the park with friends, I decided to hop on the swings, just like any typical day. Suddenly, one of their younger siblings dashed in front of me. Without thinking, I jumped off the swing to avoid a potential accident. I landed with a substantial impact on my feet after briefly soaring around four feet into the air. This abrupt landing caused a slight strain in my lower back. I applied an Icy Hot patch for about a week, expecting everything to improve. Initially, I experienced some discomfort, but it felt manageable, akin to a normal recovery. However, about four days ago, while sitting cross-legged on the floor to pack some orders, I woke up the next morning engulfed in significant pain that has persisted since that day. Despite my careful examination in front of a mirror, there are no visible signs of injury or anything unusual with my back. However, I’m confronting considerable soreness and discomfort when seated on the floor, hard chairs or benches, leaning against walls, or bending forward or backward. While I lack medical training, my personal research suggests the trouble lies between the L3 and S2 vertebrae. When explaining it to others, I liken the feeling to that of a crushed aluminum can that is deformed but has been pulled back into shape, still showing wear and tear. I’ve noticed that if I attempt to straighten my posture or stretch while lying down, the pain intensifies, akin to working out a tight muscle—but the relief is only temporary. Fortunately, I am still able to walk, stand, and jog lightly without much difficulty; however, the discomfort remains constantly beneath the surface. Currently, I've been using a treadmill set at a mild incline, which provides gentle stretching for my lower back with each step. Nevertheless, I’ve avoided any strenuous activities to prevent further aggravation. I would greatly appreciate any recommendations or insights on how to navigate this situation. Thank you!
Swollen, Itchy Toes for Two Months
Hello everyone, I'm reaching out for advice regarding a troubling issue I've been experiencing for the past two months. My toes have developed intensely itchy patches that cause discomfort and even pain when I attempt to curl them, alongside occasional burning sensations. I visited urgent care where the physician prescribed me a cream intended for ringworm after examining only my big toe, but I don't suspect a fungal infection since the problem hasn't spread anywhere else on my body. Any guidance you could provide would be immensely helpful, as walking and applying pressure on my toes has become quite painful. I've considered the possibility of chillblains, but I'm uncertain. Thank you in advance for your insights! Age: 20 Gender: Female Height: 5’3" Weight: 90 lbs Ethnicity: White Duration of symptoms: 2 months Affected area: Feet/toes Pre-existing medical conditions: None Current medications: Birth control and Strattera
Viral vs. Bacterial Sinusitis: Should I Start Antibiotics?
Age: 37 Gender: Female Height: 5’2 Weight: 186 lbs Ethnicity: Hispanic Duration of Symptoms: 3 days Location: California Existing Health Conditions: Detailed below Current Medications: None History of: allergic asthma, chronic pain (from a car accident 4 years ago), vestibular imbalance, and binocular vision issues - all resultant from the same accident for which I'm currently undergoing physical therapy. Since the beginning of the year, my family and I have been battling persistent illness, which has been quite frustrating. Recently, my 7-year-old son tested positive for Influenza A, and my teenager developed a sinus infection, for which she is now taking amoxicillin. On Saturday night, I developed a mild fever of 100.1°F and felt quite nauseous and unwell overall. After a decent night’s rest, I continued to feel poorly throughout Sunday without any fever, managing to perform nasal rinses and taking my allergy medication along with Flonase. However, today I woke up feeling fine only to be hit with severe facial pain around noon, and my condition worsened from that point. I’m not experiencing nasal congestion or discharge, but I do have chest discomfort along with significant pain and a burning sensation in my nose, forehead, throat, and chest. I recorded another fever today, reaching a peak of 100.1°F, and I’m feeling really miserable. I had a telehealth consultation where the nurse practitioner prescribed Augmentin and Azelastine (a nasal allergy medication) to replace Flonase. My concern is regarding my asthma history that tends to flare up frequently. Should I start the antibiotics right away, or hold off for a few days in hopes that my body can overcome this on its own? I’m open to waiting until tomorrow as I have to return to the office on Wednesday and would prefer to be well enough to attend. Is there a chance that my fever will subside and I’ll feel better by then? Should I take the antibiotics due to my asthma, or is it best to wait?
Could I Have an Inherently High Metabolism? (16M)
Throughout my life, I've consistently been on the lighter side, with a BMI hovering around 15 to 16. People often suggest that I simply need to eat more, and I've taken that advice to heart. I've even tracked my calorie consumption several times, finding it to be at or above the average for someone my age. Yet, I still find it impossible to put on weight. My thyroid function has been assessed and everything came back normal, leaving me puzzled. Another aspect that contributes to my curiosity is how quickly I sober up after drinking. It's remarkable—I often find that I don't remain intoxicated for more than about an hour. This isn’t merely after a casual drink; I can have several shots of vodka and still feel completely sober just an hour after the first shot. It’s not just a figment of my imagination, either, as I genuinely experience the effects of drunkenness, including disorientation, but magically revert to normal within a short timeframe. It's become quite frustrating, to be honest. So, I can’t help but wonder: is it possible that I simply possess a naturally high metabolism?
Can Working with Felt and Fabric Trigger Allergies? (48F Mother)
My mother, a 48-year-old woman (approximately 5’6” to 5’7” tall), has been running her own business for nearly 12 years, specializing in the production of handmade items using materials such as felt, fabric, and jute. Throughout this time, she has successfully filled thousands of orders. However, she has been suffering from debilitating symptoms that include severe headaches, overwhelming nausea often leading to vomiting, and persistent bladder issues that can last for up to five days. These symptoms are so intense that they hinder her ability to walk and often leave her confined to bed, battling excruciating pain. Despite her struggles, she finds that those around her tend to dismiss her condition. When she seeks medical attention, the wait can stretch over eight hours, which is common in Canada, yet she has consistently returned home without any relief. A few years ago, she underwent an MRI, which yielded no significant findings, leaving her in a state of uncertainty regarding the source of her suffering. After taking an extended break from her craft, she noticed an improvement in her condition, although occasional migraines persisted. Now, as she has resumed her routine of cutting and sewing for hours each day, the debilitating symptoms have returned, resembling the pain she experienced before her hiatus. Could she be experiencing an allergy or sensitivity related to working with felt or fabric? While cutting the felt releases tiny microfibers into the air, it's difficult for me to comprehend how this could lead to such severe discomfort. How can exposure to these fibers result in hours spent in the bathroom with debilitating headaches and extreme nausea? I am reaching out for any insights, as we have exhausted our options, and it seems that the medical community has been unhelpful in resolving her issues.