Concerning Gastrointestinal Issues
I am a 32-year-old man who began experiencing severe discomfort in the lower right region of my abdomen on Boxing Day. By New Year’s Day, the pain had intensified to the point where I sought medical attention at a hospital. Initially, the doctors suspected appendicitis, but they later dismissed that diagnosis. The pain persisted for several weeks, prompting my physician to conduct a calprotectin test, which revealed a level of 190. My blood tests returned normal results except for a CRP reading of 22. Although the dull ache in my lower right stomach continues, it occasionally escalates. I recently underwent another calprotectin test that showed a drop to 25, yet the pain remains, leaving me terrified of the possibility of cancer. My doctor is arranging a colonoscopy, but I am uncertain how long the process will take. I simply want this discomfort to subside. Has anyone else experienced something similar? I do not notice any blood in my stool, but I often have loose stools, which fluctuate between being hard and soft. I also feel extremely fatigued, which I suspect might be due to the stress of the situation. This pain has been ongoing for several months now.
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 8:20:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant and persistent abdominal pain, and I can understand how worrying this must be for you. Your symptoms, including the lower right abdominal discomfort, fluctuating stool consistency, fatigue, and elevated inflammatory markers, necessitate thorough exploration, which your physician seems to be addressing with a colonoscopy.
Key Points:
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Persistent Abdominal Pain & Diagnostic Process: Your ongoing abdominal pain, combined with abnormal calprotectin levels, suggests some underlying gastrointestinal issue, which needs to be investigated further. The colonoscopy will be a crucial step in determining any potential concerns.
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Calprotectin Levels: The decrease in calprotectin levels from 190 to 25 indicates a reduction in intestinal inflammation, which can be a positive sign. However, persistent symptoms should still be evaluated to rule out conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Next Steps to Consider:
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Manage Symptoms: Continue to monitor your symptoms closely. Keep a diary of your pain intensity, any triggers, and changes in bowel habits. This can help you and your doctor understand your condition better.
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Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids may help with any loose stools you might be experiencing. Aim for water or electrolyte-balanced drinks. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can irritate your stomach.
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Diet Considerations: Consider following a low-FODMAP diet if you notice that certain foods seem to worsen your symptoms. Common triggers include dairy, beans, and certain fruits. Introducing fiber gradually can assist in managing stool consistency.
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Incorporate Stress Management: Given that stress could be contributing to your fatigue and discomfort, explore techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness meditation to help alleviate stress.
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Awaiting the Colonoscopy: Although waiting for diagnostic tests can be anxiety-inducing, try to stay focused on the steps you can take for your comfort. Reach out to your healthcare provider for timelines regarding the colonoscopy, and consider expressing your concerns about ongoing symptoms to potentially expedite the process.
Reassurance:
While concerns about cancer can naturally arise in situations like yours, it's important to remember that many gastrointestinal issues can present similarly and are manageable. The ongoing tests and evaluations by your physician are crucial steps toward finding clarity and relief. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have further questions or need support as you navigate this challenging time.
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