[30M] Experiencing hemorrhoids, loss of appetite, constipation, and stomach aches

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in your lower rectum. Hemorrhoids can develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods of time, chronic diarrhea or constipation, obesity, or pregnancy. They can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding during bowel movements.

  • Treatment options include over-the-counter creams or suppositories, a high-fiber diet, and drinking plenty of fluids. In some cases, a doctor may recommend a procedure to remove the hemorrhoid.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you will need to manage long term.

  • Treatment of IBS typically involves long-term strategies to manage symptoms, such as changes in diet, managing stress, and sometimes medications.

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, usually caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites. Symptoms can include stomach pain, nausea, and loss of appetite.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be caused by several factors, including long-term use of NSAIDs, infection with the bacteria H. pylori, or chronic bile reflux. Symptoms can include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and loss of appetite.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid, and avoiding irritants such as alcohol, NSAIDs, and spicy foods.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: These are sores that develop on the lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. Symptoms can include burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, bloating or belching, fatty food intolerance, heartburn, and nausea.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid, and antibiotics if H. pylori is present.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Make an appointment with a healthcare provider: They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

2. Keep a symptom diary: Write down what you eat, when you eat, when your symptoms occur and what they are. This can help identify any triggers or patterns, and will be useful information for your healthcare provider.

3. Lifestyle changes: Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day. Avoid foods and drinks that stimulate the intestines, such as caffeine, high-fat foods, and possibly dairy products. Increasing your fiber intake can help with constipation.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you're experiencing diarrhea.

5. Over-the-counter treatments: There are over-the-counter creams and suppositories available for hemorrhoids that can help with the pain and swelling.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

• Notice a sudden increase in the severity of your symptoms
• Have severe abdominal pain
• Have bloody or black, tarry stools
• Have bloody or black vomit
• Have a high fever (over 101°F)
• Are unable to keep down food or liquids without vomiting

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