[22F] Experiencing severe stomach pain, body aches, vomiting, and green mucus-filled stools

Patient Description

A 22-year-old female presents with a 4-day history of sharp and crampy stomach pain, rated 9/10 in severity, which worsens after meals but persists throughout the day. The pain is somewhat alleviated by sleeping on the stomach. She also reports dull body aches, primarily in the joints, rated 7/10 in severity. For the past 2 days, she has been vomiting 2-3 times daily, with the vomit being watery and containing food particles. Additionally, she has experienced green, mucus-filled stools for the past 3 days. Despite these symptoms, there are no signs of dehydration, and no changes in appetite or weight have been noted. There is no recent history of injury, no known allergies, no adverse reactions to medications, and she is not currently taking any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, possible diagnoses include:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is the most common cause and is often referred to as stomach flu. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be prescribed if bacteria or parasites are the cause.
  • Food Poisoning: This occurs when you eat contaminated food. Symptoms, which can start within hours of eating the food, can include nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

    • Treatment usually involves rest and rehydration. Severe cases may require hospitalization.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation, or both.

    • Treatment typically involves long-term management of diet, lifestyle changes, and stress.
  • Gallstones: These are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements. Green, jelly-like stool can sometimes indicate a problem with the gallbladder or liver.

    • Treatment can range from watchful waiting to surgery, depending on the severity of symptoms and whether complications develop.

Please note that these are possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids such as water or oral rehydration solutions available over the counter. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can worsen dehydration.
  2. Rest: Allow your body to recover.
  3. Eat light: If you can keep food down, eat small amounts of bland foods like rice, crackers, or bananas.
  4. Over-the-counter medication: Over-the-counter medication may help manage symptoms, but should be used as directed by the manufacturer.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

  • See blood in your vomit or stool
  • Have a fever over 101.5°F
  • Are unable to keep fluids down for 24 hours
  • Have severe abdominal pain or swelling
  • Have symptoms of dehydration like dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of green, mucus-filled stools?

Green, mucus-filled stools can be caused by a variety of factors including infections (bacterial or viral), food poisoning, or issues with the gallbladder or liver. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.


How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and food poisoning?

Gastroenteritis and food poisoning can have similar symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. However, food poisoning symptoms often start within hours of eating contaminated food, while gastroenteritis symptoms can develop more gradually. A healthcare provider can help determine the cause based on symptoms and possibly tests.


What are the signs that my abdominal pain might be due to gallstones?

Signs that abdominal pain might be due to gallstones include pain in the upper right abdomen, pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder, nausea, vomiting, and changes in stool color. An ultrasound or other imaging tests can confirm the presence of gallstones.


What dietary changes can help manage symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Dietary changes for managing IBS symptoms include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods (such as fatty foods, dairy, and caffeine), increasing fiber intake gradually, and staying hydrated. It's also helpful to keep a food diary to identify specific triggers.


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