[22M] With gastrointestinal symptoms and left-sided rib pain

Patient Description

A 22-year-old male presents with body aches, stomach aches, and pain in the left side under the ribs, accompanied by soft stool. The soft stool has been occurring for the past one to two days, with frequent bowel movements. The patient reports that dairy products seem to exacerbate the diarrhea. The symptoms began suddenly following recent travel. There is no fever or blood in the stool. The abdominal pain is mild and is relieved by bowel movements. The patient also experiences pain in the left side under the ribs, which worsens with breathing, movement, or bending over. The patient has not reported any recent injuries but notes poor sleep quality and a habit of sleeping on the side, which might contribute to the discomfort.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms of soft stool, mild abdominal pain, and pain in the left side under your ribs, here are some possibilities:

  1. Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, stomach aches, and body aches. Your recent travel and the sudden onset of symptoms could suggest this.

  2. Lactose Intolerance: Since you mentioned that dairy seems to worsen your symptoms, lactose intolerance could be a factor. This condition occurs when your body can't digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, leading to diarrhea and stomach discomfort.

  3. Muscle Strain or Rib Pain: The pain in your left side under the ribs, especially when breathing or moving, could be due to a muscle strain or rib-related issue, possibly from sleeping in an awkward position.

Typical treatments or testing might include staying hydrated, avoiding dairy products, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. If symptoms persist, a healthcare provider might recommend further testing, such as stool tests or imaging, to rule out other conditions.

What you can do

Soft Stool and Stomach Aches:

  • Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, like water or oral rehydration solutions, to prevent dehydration.
  • Diet: Avoid dairy products and stick to bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) until your symptoms improve.
  • Rest: Give your body time to recover by getting plenty of rest.

Pain in Left Side Under Ribs:

  • Gentle Movement: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Gentle stretching might help, but avoid any movements that cause discomfort.
  • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain, but use them as directed.

Consider using MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with a healthcare provider if needed.

What you should look out for

While your symptoms are not immediately life-threatening, you should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Persistent or worsening symptoms
  • High fever or signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination)
  • Severe abdominal pain or blood in your stool

Remember, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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22 d ago

People Also Ask

What could be causing my sudden onset of diarrhea and stomach aches after traveling?

Sudden onset of diarrhea and stomach aches after traveling could be due to gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It's common after travel due to exposure to new pathogens.

How can I tell if my symptoms are due to lactose intolerance?

If your symptoms worsen after consuming dairy products, it could indicate lactose intolerance. This condition occurs when your body can't digest lactose, leading to symptoms like diarrhea and stomach discomfort. Avoiding dairy and observing if symptoms improve can help identify lactose intolerance.

What are some effective ways to relieve pain under the ribs that worsens with movement?

To relieve pain under the ribs that worsens with movement, try gentle stretching and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also help manage the pain, but should be used as directed.

When should I seek medical attention for my symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, high fever, signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination), severe abdominal pain, or blood in your stool.

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