[31M] With chronic lower back pain and gastrointestinal symptoms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, there are a few possibilities to consider:

1. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: The presence of a lot of blood in your stool is concerning and could indicate bleeding in your digestive tract. This can be caused by conditions like hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, or more serious issues like ulcers or tumors.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): The combination of abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits could suggest IBS or IBD, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

3. Back Injury Complications: Chronic back pain and abdominal symptoms might be related if there's nerve involvement or other complications from your back injury.

It's important to seek medical attention promptly to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment. Testing might include blood tests, imaging studies, or a colonoscopy.

What you can do

• Seek Immediate Medical Care: Given the severity of your symptoms, especially the significant blood in your stool, it's crucial to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Consider visiting an emergency room or urgent care.

• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as increased pain, more frequent bleeding, or new symptoms like fever.

• Avoid Certain Medications: Until you see a doctor, avoid NSAIDs or other medications that might worsen bleeding.

• Stay Hydrated: Blood loss can lead to dehydration, so ensure you're drinking plenty of fluids.

Please remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Contact a healthcare provider immediately to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. If your symptoms worsen or you feel light-headed, call 911 or have someone take you to the hospital.