[27M] Experiencing acute gastroenteritis symptoms

Patient Description

A 27-year-old male presents with acute onset of yellow, watery diarrhea occurring approximately twice an hour and yellow, watery vomiting approximately once every 40 minutes since this morning. The patient feels feverish, lightheaded with a sense of unsteadiness, particularly when sitting, and reports exhaustion. He also experiences cramping, though not severe, and a dry mouth, which may indicate dehydration. No recent travel, consumption of suspicious food, or new medications reported. The patient has been taking Escitalopram 10mg for anxiety and depression for about a year, with weight gain as a noted side effect. A recent Covid test taken around noon today was negative. No other significant medical history, known drug allergies, or chronic illnesses were reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you 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 the most common cause and is often referred to as stomach flu. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal discomfort.
- Treatment: Most cases of gastroenteritis resolve within a few days without specific treatment. Rest and rehydration are usually recommended.
Food poisoning: This occurs when you eat contaminated food. Symptoms, which include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fever, typically begin within a few hours of eating the contaminated food and can last from a few hours to several days.
- Treatment: Like gastroenteritis, treatment usually involves rest and rehydration. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Stress and certain foods can trigger symptoms.
- Treatment: While there's no cure for IBS, lifestyle changes and medications can often help control symptoms.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should seek care from a healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and treatment if appropriate.

What you can do

Stay hydrated: Diarrhea and vomiting can cause you to lose fluids quickly, so it's important to drink plenty of water. If you're finding it hard to keep water down, try taking small sips at regular intervals or sucking on ice chips.
Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting extra sleep can help.
Avoid certain foods: Dairy products, fatty foods, high-fiber foods, or highly seasoned foods can make diarrhea worse.
Use over-the-counter medicines with caution: Some can help with symptoms, but they also have side effects. If you're not sure what to take, ask a pharmacist or doctor.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

Your diarrhea or vomiting lasts more than 2 days
You have a high fever (over 102°F)
You see blood in your stools or vomit
You're unable to keep liquids down
You have signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or feeling lightheaded when standing.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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11 mo ago

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