[19M] Experiencing abdominal pain with bloody stools

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is particularly common and highly infectious. Symptoms can include diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial cause is identified.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This is a term for two conditions (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) that are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Symptoms can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and blood in the stool.

  • Treatment typically involves medication to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. In some cases, surgery may be required.

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: This could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a peptic ulcer, diverticulosis, or colorectal cancer. The presence of bright red blood suggests the bleeding is occurring in the lower GI tract.

  • Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, endoscopic therapy, or surgery.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other diagnoses are also possible.

What you can do

Given the presence of blood in your stool, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is not a symptom that should be ignored. In the meantime, try to stay hydrated and eat bland, easy-to-digest foods.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Signs of dehydration (such as dark urine, dry skin, or feeling dizzy when standing up)
• Large amounts of blood or clots in your stool

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.