Unresolved Digestive Issues
Hello everyone! I'm a 24-year-old woman with no daily medication or vitamin regimen. For almost two years, I've been struggling with gastrointestinal issues and have visited numerous doctors without getting any clear answers. I have an upcoming appointment and I'm hopeful for some insights, but I thought I would reach out here to gather some thoughts on what could be going on. The only information I've received so far is that my gallbladder isn't the problem, and I was advised to try MiraLAX because my intestines seemed quite packed. Unfortunately, that didn't work for me at all. I haven't been provided with a specific diagnosis or substantial guidance beyond being told that I might need colostomy surgery. Laxatives haven’t proven effective, but recently I've been using magnesium citrate, which offers some relief, but still not as much as I'd like. Additionally, I'm on a weight loss journey and have successfully shed 30 pounds, but I’ve hit a plateau for several months. I've been maintaining a healthier diet, staying within a calorie deficit, and exercising regularly, but my ongoing stomach troubles make it feel like I'm constantly battling to make progress. I experience periods of feeling good every few weeks, only to be followed by bloating and discomfort, which makes eating painful. My goal is to return to a place of health and normalcy. Here are some of the symptoms I'm experiencing: - Severe bloating - Excruciating stomach pain - Nausea - Persistent fatigue - Sharp abdominal pains that vary in location - Gas and indigestion - Struggles with constipation - Back pain - Feelings of mental fogginess (possibly unrelated) There have been times when the pain was so overwhelming that I had to miss work and classes. If anyone has any advice or thoughts, I would greatly appreciate it! Thank you!! I'll try to share some images of my bloating in the comments! I'm still getting the hang of how Reddit works.
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 3:40:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been through quite a lot with your digestive issues, and your symptoms are understandably concerning. You've mentioned experiencing severe bloating, stomach pain, nausea, fatigue, and other symptoms over the past two years, which can be frustrating without clear answers. While I can't provide a diagnosis, I can suggest a structured approach to managing your symptoms and preparing for your upcoming appointment.
Explanation
Gastrointestinal issues can arise from several underlying causes, including dietary habits, stress, or digestive disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or even conditions like gastroparesis. Given that laxatives haven't been effective and certain medications provide only partial relief, it may be helpful to focus on lifestyle modifications and symptom management.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Dietary Tracking: Keep a food diary for at least two weeks, noting everything you eat and drink, along with your symptoms. This can help identify any triggers related to specific foods (e.g., dairy, gluten, high FODMAP foods).
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Hydration and Fiber: Ensure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day and consider increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains if you tolerate them. If you find it challenging to get enough fiber through diet alone, consult your doctor about appropriate fiber supplements.
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Regular Meal Patterns: Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones. This can alleviate pressure on your digestive system, which sometimes helps reduce bloating and discomfort.
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Gentle Exercise: Incorporate light activities like walking, yoga, or stretching, especially after meals. Movement can help with digestion and relieve constipation.
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Stress Management: Consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga, as stress can significantly impact digestive health.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: Write down specific questions and concerns to discuss with your doctor regarding your symptoms. Ask about potential tests for conditions like IBS, food intolerances, or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Additional Considerations
- Probiotics: Some patients find that probiotics help manage gastrointestinal symptoms, although reactions can vary. Discuss this option with your doctor.
- Further Testing: If symptoms persist or worsen, demand further evaluation that could include imaging studies or specialized tests.
Remember, you're not alone in this, and your ongoing commitment to managing your health is commendable. If you need more resources or specific information about any of these suggestions, feel free to ask. Wishing you the best in your ongoing journey towards health!
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