[19F] With severe stomach pain, weight loss, and yellow rectal discharge

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female has been experiencing severe stomach pain for almost two weeks. The pain feels like being overly full and being stabbed from the inside out, and it worsens when she eats, making it difficult for her to eat. As a result, she has lost 6 pounds in the last 10 days. Additionally, she is extremely exhausted and finds it hard to stay awake. Just today, she started experiencing a significant amount of bright yellow liquid leaking from her rectum, which she noticed when she went to pee. She has a history of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, diagnosed when she was around 10-12 years old. She is currently taking a medication prescribed from the ER for her stomach pains, which she takes once daily, but she is unsure of its name. No known drug allergies. No other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there are several potential conditions that could explain your symptoms:

  • Gastrointestinal Infection: Severe stomach pain, weight loss, and yellow diarrhea could indicate a bacterial or viral infection in your gastrointestinal tract. Common infections include those caused by bacteria like Salmonella or viruses like Norovirus.

    • Treatment typically involves hydration, rest, and sometimes antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the cause.
  • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain, weight loss, and changes in stool color and consistency.

    • Treatment usually involves hospitalization, fasting to rest the pancreas, IV fluids, and pain management.
  • Gallbladder Disease: Conditions like cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) or gallstones can cause severe abdominal pain, especially after eating, and changes in stool color.

    • Treatment may involve dietary changes, medications, or surgery to remove the gallbladder.
  • Malabsorption Syndromes: Conditions like celiac disease or Crohn's disease can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, causing weight loss, fatigue, and changes in stool.

    • Treatment involves managing the underlying condition, which may include dietary changes, medications, or surgery.
  • Liver Disease: Conditions affecting the liver, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, can cause yellowing of the stool, weight loss, and fatigue.

    • Treatment depends on the specific liver condition and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or other interventions.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or oral rehydration solutions, to prevent dehydration.
  2. Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest to help your body recover.
  3. Avoid Aggravating Foods: Try to avoid foods that worsen your symptoms, such as fatty, spicy, or greasy foods.
  4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in pain, stool color, or other new symptoms, to provide detailed information to your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe or Worsening Pain: If your abdominal pain becomes unbearable or significantly worsens.
  • Signs of Dehydration: Such as dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, or fainting.
  • Fever or Chills: Indicating a possible infection.
  • Blood in Stool: Any presence of blood in your stool.
  • Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, which could indicate liver issues.

Important Note

Please remember that this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If your symptoms are severe or worsening, please seek immediate medical attention.

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5 mo ago


People Also Ask


What could cause severe stomach pain and weight loss in a young adult?

Severe stomach pain and weight loss in a young adult could be caused by several conditions, including gastrointestinal infections, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, malabsorption syndromes, or liver disease. Each of these conditions requires specific medical evaluation and treatment.


Why might someone experience bright yellow liquid leaking from the rectum?

Bright yellow liquid leaking from the rectum could indicate a gastrointestinal issue such as an infection, malabsorption syndrome, or liver-related problems. It is important to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.


How does Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome affect gastrointestinal health?

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can affect gastrointestinal health by causing issues such as delayed gastric emptying, intestinal dysmotility, and increased risk of hernias or prolapses due to connective tissue fragility. These can contribute to symptoms like pain and malabsorption.


What are the signs that indicate a need for immediate medical attention with these symptoms?

Immediate medical attention is needed if there is severe or worsening abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, fever or chills, blood in the stool, or jaundice. These symptoms could indicate serious underlying conditions that require prompt treatment.

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