[26F] Experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms with recent weight gain

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause symptoms such as cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but several factors appear to play a role, including muscle contractions in the intestine, abnormalities in the nervous system, inflammation in the intestines, severe infection, and changes in bacteria in the gut.

  • Treatment for IBS is aimed at relieving symptoms and often includes changes in diet, lifestyle, and stress management. Some people with IBS find it helpful to work with a dietitian to identify healthy food choices that won't trigger symptoms. Over-the-counter medications are often used to control symptoms.

• 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, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss.

  • Treatment for IBD usually involves drug therapy or, in certain cases, surgery.

• 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. Gastroenteritis can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

  • Treatment of gastroenteritis generally involves self-care measures to manage symptoms while your body fights off the infection.

• Colorectal cancer: While this is less likely given your age and negative colonoscopy, it's important to consider given your symptoms of weight loss, blood in the stool, and a positive fecal occult blood test.

  • Treatment for colorectal cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Maintain a balanced diet: Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms. You might find it helpful to keep a food diary to identify these triggers.
2. Stay hydrated: This is particularly important if you're experiencing diarrhea, as you can quickly become dehydrated.
3. Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help reduce depression and anxiety and promote good digestion.
4. Limit stress: Stress can exacerbate many of the conditions that could be causing your symptoms. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga may help.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If you notice increased blood in your stool or severe abdominal pain
• If you develop a fever (temperature over >100.4°F) or chills
• If your symptoms worsen or you cannot manage them at home

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.