[30M] With bloody stools and abdominal discomfort

What might be happening

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

• Colitis: This is inflammation of the colon, which can cause symptoms like abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. The blood is often bright red and can be mixed with mucus or pus.

  • Treatment usually involves medication to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Diverticular Disease: This condition involves small pouches, called diverticula, that can form in the walls of the colon. If these pouches become inflamed or infected, it can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, and bloody stools.

  • Treatment can include antibiotics, pain relievers, and a temporary change to a liquid diet. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower part of the anus and rectum. When the walls of these vessels are stretched, they can become irritated and bleed.

  • Treatment can include over-the-counter creams or ointments, cold compresses, and increasing fiber in the diet. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Anal Fissure: This is a small tear in the thin, moist tissue that lines the anus, which can cause bleeding during bowel movements, along with pain and itching.

  • Treatment can include over-the-counter creams or ointments, warm baths, and increasing fiber in the diet.

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: This is bleeding that occurs in any part of the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. It can cause symptoms like bloody or tarry stools, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

  • Treatment usually involves identifying and controlling the source of the bleeding, which may require medication, endoscopy, or surgery.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to stay hydrated and eat a bland diet to help manage your symptoms.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Stools that are black, tarry, or contain large amounts of bright red blood

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.