Abdominal Discomfort
Age: 23, Height: 5’2, Weight: 55 kg. Last Sunday, I experienced a sudden and intense pain in my abdomen that persisted for several hours. Along with the pain, I felt nauseous and developed a fever. Since then, similar episodes have occurred twice more during the evening or nighttime; however, those did not involve nausea or fever. The discomfort is localized in the central region of my abdomen and is notably tender to the touch, especially below the belly button. To provide some background: I have a long-term tendency to alternate between constipation and diarrhea, often with sudden urges. Additionally, I have a history of anxiety and a family inclination towards ulcerative colitis. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with two gastrointestinal infections—one while traveling abroad and another due to consuming spoiled spinach and tap water. I've also noticed that my stools tend to be yellow, fluffy, and sometimes appear floating, alongside instances of watery diarrhea. Recently, I've encountered a troubling issue: uncontrollable gas emissions with a noticeable odor, which tend to worsen during periods of anxiety. Stool analyses have revealed mild inflammation. Following these assessments, my general practitioner suspects that I might be dealing with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and I was prescribed amitriptyline two weeks ago. I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights on this situation.
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 9:10:29 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a complex situation that involves abdominal discomfort, gas, and changes in your bowel habits. Given your symptoms, history of gastrointestinal infections, and concerns about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it’s understandable that you are seeking clarity and relief.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may relate to IBS, and your recent history of infections along with family history increases the complexity.
- It’s vital to monitor changes in your symptoms and talk about managing triggers, particularly regarding your anxiety and dietary habits.
Explanation:
Your abdominal pain and discomfort, especially when tender to touch and accompanied by nausea and fever, could indicate various gastrointestinal issues. Since you have described alternating bowel habits and a family history of ulcerative colitis, your healthcare provider’s suspicion of IBS makes sense. IBS can cause a range of symptoms including abdominal pain, gas, and changes in stool consistency.
The yellow, fluffy stools and excessive gas may also suggest malabsorption, which could be linked to dietary factors or could warrant further investigation. Your history of gastrointestinal infections may have contributed to some of these current symptoms.
Next Steps:
-
Dietary Management:
- Keep a food diary to track what you eat and note any patterns in your symptoms thereafter. This can help identify food triggers (like gluten or dairy).
- Consider trying a low-FODMAP diet, which may reduce symptoms for some people with IBS. This involves limiting foods that ferment in the gut.
-
Hydration and Nutrition:
- Stay well-hydrated, especially if you experience diarrhea, to prevent dehydration.
- Aim for a balanced diet rich in fiber, focusing on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help with bowel regularity, as tolerated.
-
Manage Stress and Anxiety:
- Incorporate relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your routine since anxiety can exacerbate gut symptoms.
- Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor if anxiety significantly impacts your daily life and wellbeing.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a symptom diary that records when you experience pain, gas, changes in stool, and any triggers you might identify. Share this with your healthcare provider to assist in adjusting your treatment plan if necessary.
-
Follow-Up Care:
- Schedule regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to discuss your treatment plan, especially to evaluate the effectiveness of amitriptyline and any dietary changes.
Being attentive to your body and patterns will be key in managing your symptoms. I understand this can be challenging, but you’re not alone in this journey, and taking these steps can help you find relief and improve your quality of life. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms arise, please seek medical attention for further evaluation.
Related Questions
Should I Be Concerned About My Symptoms?
Since November, or perhaps even before, I have experienced persistent itching in the anal region. Unfortunately, my scratching only aggravated the discomfort. During this time, I also discovered a lump approximately the size of a grape near my perineum. To alleviate the itching, I applied hemorrhoid cream for about a week, which provided some relief. Thankfully, I have not observed any bleeding or significant pain, just some discomfort. However, I have noticed that the lump appears to have enlarged, resulting in noticeable hardness around the anus when pressure is applied. The itching has subsided considerably. I visited my gynecologist last week because I felt uneasy consulting my male general practitioner. In her assessment, she performed an external examination and didn't express any concern. She suggested that I might have had a hemorrhoid that has since healed. I wonder if she might not be accustomed to addressing issues like this. Should I seek a second opinion from my general practitioner? I have mentioned experiencing some discharge as well. I can’t help but feel that my doctor must be weary of my self-diagnosing tendencies, but this issue feels too significant to overlook. Why is there still such pronounced hardness in that area, along with an overwhelming feeling of fullness?
Concerns About Potential Infection Following Back Surgery
On January 8, I underwent a microdiscectomy at the L5 S1 region. The procedure appeared successful, and I'm progressing well in terms of recovery. The surgical site is healing nicely, with some minor flaking and itchiness. However, approximately three days ago, I began to feel somewhat unwell. When I checked my temperature, it peaked at 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening. As someone who experiences significant anxiety regarding my health, I found myself frequently monitoring my temperature after noticing the increase. After a few hours, my temperature returned to normal at 98.6 degrees. The following morning, it dropped further to around 98.1. Yet, later that evening, I felt warm again, and my temperature measured between 99.1 and 99.3. Now, on the third consecutive night, I again have a slightly elevated temperature and continue to feel warm and off. Although the surgical site looks healthy, and I am not experiencing an increase in pain, the recurring feverish feelings in the evenings worry me. What might be the cause of this situation? Is it possible that I have developed a deep tissue infection related to my recent surgery? Could intermittent mild fevers result from such an infection? I’m also concerned about the possibility of sepsis. Does it typically present this way in the initial stages? Additionally, I want to mention that I stopped taking Mounjaro a month prior to my surgery and resumed it at the lowest dose about a week and a half ago, with my second dose taken four days ago. Might this be a factor in my current symptoms? Please be gentle in your responses. I am feeling quite anxious about what’s happening.
Seeking Guidance on Health Issues
I am a 34-year-old Caucasian man, standing 180 cm tall and weighing 115 kg. Recent imaging via CT has confirmed that I have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with additional findings of fatty infiltration in the pancreas and splenomegaly. Scattered diverticula were also identified in the sigmoid colon. My laboratory results indicate elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Additionally, there are high concentrations of beta-2 globulins and gamma globulins, with evidence of beta-gamma bridging, as well as increased alkaline phosphatase levels, while my gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) remains within the normal range. I have chronically low iron levels and low transferrin saturation, yet my hemoglobin appears normal, albeit with a reduced mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) reading, a trend that has been ongoing for the past decade. Interestingly, my liver enzyme results show improvement despite an increase in my weight, which seems contradictory, although my inflammatory markers have worsened over time. I am contemplating whether these various health issues are interrelated and if I should prioritize losing weight. Would it be advisable to consider starting an anti-inflammatory medication? The hematologist does not express concern regarding my lab results and mentioned that taking iron supplements likely wouldn't be beneficial. Any insights or recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
Seeking Guidance on Severe Akathisia and Delirium After Cardiac Surgery
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for immediate advice regarding my father’s neurological condition. We are in dire need of assistance. **Patient Information:** Male, 53 years old. **Medical Background:** Recently underwent cardiac surgery. Two days post-operation, he experienced a brain hemorrhage. Latest imaging indicates that the blood is gradually resolving and being absorbed. **Chronic Sleep Issues and Crisis:** - It has been two weeks since he returned home, and during this time, he has only managed to sleep a mere 15 to 20 hours. He is exceedingly fatigued. - Initially prescribed Haloperidol (Norodol) at a dosage of 3 drops daily, it was increased to 10 drops on two occasions due to his aggressive behavior, which resulted in severe akathisia. We discontinued this medication two days ago. - **Last 24 Hours:** Last night, we administered Quetiapine (Quetap). Within an hour, he devolved into a frightening state of delirium and akathisia. He was calling out for help and pacing incessantly for 15 hours, struggling to articulate coherent thoughts. **Current Measures to Break the 15-Hour Cycle:** - Propranolol (Dideral) 10 mg (1/4 tablet) was given eight hours ago. - Clozapine 12.5 mg (1/2 tablet) was administered three hours ago. - Diazepam (Sibazol) was given via IM injection one hour ago by emergency medical services. **Current Condition:** He is finally asleep deeply for the first time in days and is lying on his side. **Questions I Have:** 1. After nearly two weeks of being awake with very little sleep, is chronic insomnia the cause of his delirium, or is this a consequence of the brain hemorrhage? 2. Is the akathisia likely to be permanent, or can we expect it to subside once Haloperidol and Quetiapine have fully cleared from his system? 3. His speech is confused. Is experiencing word mix-ups symptomatic of the brain hemorrhage recovery, or is this a result of profound exhaustion and sedation? 4. Once the effects of Diazepam diminish, is there a significant chance that the screaming and pacing will reoccur? 5. What strategies can we employ to alleviate akathisia? Thank you for your help. We simply wish for his safety and well-being.
Identifying Possible Autism Characteristics
Here’s a compilation of behaviors I suspect might be linked to autism: - I often flap my hands when I'm excited, deep in thought, or if my hands feel strange. - Making lists is a comfort for me, particularly during moments of boredom. - I struggle with the sensation of my own skin touching other skin. - Although I dislike physical contact, I yearn for it but find it hard to initiate; if I have a romantic partner, they are the sole person allowed to touch me. - I tend to snap or tap my fingers when thinking. - I often interpret things literally. - I sometimes overlook social nuances such as jokes or subtle hints. - I have a habit of biting items that lack any scent. - Occasionally, I walk on my toes either to be more silent or simply because it feels pleasant. - While loud noises can be painful, I paradoxically seek out loud music. - I instinctively sniff objects. - Occasionally I find socks unpleasant and need to adjust their tightness to feel comfortable. - I crack my fingers when I'm feeling uneasy. - To calm myself, I often play with my hair. - I require music to sleep, as quiet environments are challenging for me. - I experience significant discomfort if anyone touches my back. - I believe my stuffed animals have emotions and feel guilty if I cuddle just one, as it feels unfair to the others. - I enjoy placing small items under my fingernails due to the tactile sensation, or because my nails themselves feel bothersome. - At times, articulating my wants and needs proves difficult. - I have a strong aversion to change, which frequently triggers PTSD nightmares. - I develop attachments to my belongings and hesitate to discard items I perceive as useless. - I cannot eat meat that has fat or a fatty texture. - Back in sixth grade, I would tidy my desk as a method of self-soothing during stressful periods. - I struggle with eye contact; when someone meets my gaze, I find it challenging, but I can stare at them when they look away. - I rub my feet together for comfort, especially before bed. - I peel the skin on my lips and fingers when I'm anxious or bored. - Wearing tight clothing can be uncomfortable for me, though at times I seek it out. - Certain fabrics can feel overwhelmingly unpleasant, leading to heightened agitation. - I often become acutely aware of my eyes, which feel uncomfortable and hard to ignore. - Restlessness in my legs prevents me from finding a comfy position. - Texting creates anxiety for me, and I struggle with how to respond to messages. - I dislike having my hair touch my skin. - I can often predict movie outcomes since they tend to follow recognizable patterns. - If I feel bumps on my skin, I have a compulsion to pick at them. - Some sounds reveal patterns that fascinate me, and I focus on those. - The things I create must adhere to specific patterns, too. - When indulging in music or reading, it can feel like only a short time has passed, but the reality is often much longer. If these sound familiar, could they hint at autism? I was diagnosed with ADHD at age thirteen, a process that took longer due to being female. Now, at twenty-one, I wonder if these traits may align with autism as well.