[26F] With persistent whitish mucus

Sure, Wimberly! Based on the information you've provided, here's some advice that might help you understand what's happening and what you can do next.

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possible explanations:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It can cause symptoms like passing mucus, frequent bowel movements, and nausea. Stress and diet can often play a role in IBS.

  • Treatment: Management typically involves dietary changes, stress management, and sometimes medications to manage symptoms.

• Probiotic Reaction: Sometimes, starting probiotics can cause changes in bowel habits, including increased mucus production and more frequent bowel movements.

  • Treatment: If probiotics are the cause, stopping them might help alleviate symptoms.

• Infection or Inflammation: Although less likely given the absence of pain and fever, infections or inflammatory conditions can sometimes cause mucus in the stool.

  • Treatment: This would typically require medical evaluation and possibly antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications.

What you can do

1. Dietary Adjustments: Consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. You might find that certain foods exacerbate your symptoms.
2. Stop Probiotics Temporarily: Since you mentioned that your symptoms might have increased after starting probiotics, you could try stopping them for a week to see if there's any improvement.
3. Hydration and Fiber: Ensure you stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber. However, since you're already taking fiber supplements, monitor if they might be contributing to your symptoms.
4. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, consider stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise.
5. Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Blood in Stool: This could indicate a more serious condition that needs immediate attention.
• Severe Abdominal Pain: Persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
• Fever or Chills: These could indicate an infection that requires medical treatment.
• Unintended Weight Loss: This could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

Remember, while this advice can help you manage your symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out!