[30M] With chronic post-food poisoning symptoms and autoimmune disorder

What might be happening

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

• Autoimmune Disorders: Given your family history of fibromyalgia and inflammatory bowel disease, as well as your own history of reactive arthritis, it's possible that you might have an autoimmune disorder. These conditions occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body. Symptoms can include inflammation, pain, and stiffness in various parts of the body.

  • Treatment typically involves managing symptoms and preventing complications. This can include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Given your family history and your symptoms of occasional diarrhea and recent blood in your stool, you might have a form of IBD, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. These conditions cause chronic inflammation in your digestive tract, which can lead to a variety of symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves medication to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary.

• Food Intolerances or Allergies: Your symptoms of inflammation and discomfort after consuming certain foods and drinks suggest that you might have a food intolerance or allergy. These conditions occur when your immune system reacts to certain foods.

  • Treatment typically involves avoiding the foods that cause symptoms. In some cases, medication might be necessary.

• Fibromyalgia: Given your family history and your symptoms of chronic pain and stiffness, you might have fibromyalgia. This condition is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress management and healthy lifestyle habits.

Please note that these are only possibilities based on the information you provided. It's important to see a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

What you can do

1. Continue to avoid foods and drinks that seem to trigger your symptoms.
2. Try to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
3. Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms of stiffness and pain.
4. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain, but should be used sparingly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
5. Keep your upcoming appointments for a colonoscopy and endoscopy. These tests can provide valuable information about your digestive health.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent or worsening blood in your stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe or worsening pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.