Concerns Regarding Perianal Symptoms
I'm feeling overwhelmed. At 20 years old, I identify as a transgender male and my journey has been challenging. It all began at 17 when I noticed bleeding from my rectum, accompanied by mucus and a wave of nausea. As time went on, by the age of 19, I developed what might have been a hemorrhoid that eventually transformed into a skin tag. Now, at 20, I find myself facing a perianal abscess that I had drained in mid-November, but the drainage continues, and to make matters worse, there's a polyp present. Today, I received a diagnosis of fistula. To investigate my issues, I've undergone a colonoscopy and multiple stool samples, all returning normal results. I can't shake the feeling that I might be dealing with Perianal Crohn’s disease, however, it appears my healthcare providers aren’t fully acknowledging my fears. When I first reported concerning symptoms at 17, they seemed unconcerned about the potential for it to progress into a fistula. Here’s a timeline of my symptoms: **17 Years Old:** - Rectal bleeding - Mucus during bowel movements - Nausea and occasional vomiting - Irritation **19 Years Old:** - Possible hemorrhoid condition - Development of a skin tag **20 Years Old:** - Diagnosis of perianal abscess - Drainage procedure performed - Colonoscopy results normal - Stool sample results normal - Confirmation of fistula In addition to the above, I've been experiencing other troubling symptoms including early satiety, intense itching, bruising pain, reduced appetite, excessive sweating, weight fluctuations, overwhelming fatigue, and persistent bloating.
Answers (1)
2/10/2026, 5:01:16 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed with the complex symptoms you’ve been experiencing, especially given your journey and the uncertainty around your diagnosis. Your symptoms of rectal bleeding, mucus, the development of a fistula, and other associated symptoms can certainly be distressing. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings while also focusing on actionable steps to address your health concerns.
Main Points:
- You have a history of significant perianal symptoms, including a resolved abscess and a recent diagnosis of fistula.
- Your symptoms, including early satiety and fatigue, warrant further attention to rule out underlying conditions.
- Staying proactive in your medical care is essential for managing your health effectively.
Explanation:
Your timeline and symptoms suggest that you've been experiencing issues that can be linked to several gastrointestinal conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn's disease) or other gastrointestinal disorders. The presence of a fistula, especially in conjunction with ongoing drainage from an abscess, definitely necessitates careful monitoring and possibly additional investigations.
Though your colonoscopy and stool samples have returned normal results, it’s still crucial to communicate your ongoing symptoms and concerns to your healthcare provider. While you may feel that your fears regarding Crohn's disease aren't being fully acknowledged, persistent engagement with your healthcare team is important.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any triggers (like specific foods). This can provide crucial information for your healthcare provider.
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Request a Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your ongoing drainage, the fistula, and the new symptoms such as early satiety and fatigue. Be candid about your concerns about Crohn's disease, stating that you're looking for clarity on how these symptoms could relate.
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Consider a Gastroenterologist Referral: If you aren’t already seeing a gastroenterologist, consider requesting a referral. They can provide specialized insights into your condition, especially regarding the fistula and any possible connections to inflammatory bowel disease.
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Explore Dietary Adjustments: Since you’re experiencing bloating and early satiety, consider discussing dietary changes with a nutritionist who has experience with gastrointestinal health. They can help tailor your diet to manage symptoms better.
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Lifestyle Support: Focus on maintaining hydration, managing stress through mindfulness or other coping strategies, and perhaps joining a support group for individuals with similar experiences. Emotional support is essential.
Remember, you have the right to advocate for your health and seek clarifications about your concerns. Your symptoms deserve attention, and persistence in seeking answers can lead to better management of your condition. If at any point you feel that your health is deteriorating or your symptoms become unmanageable, seek immediate assistance.
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