[34F] Experiencing severe diarrhea and upper abdominal pain

What might be happening

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

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be required if the cause is bacterial.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.

  • Treatment often involves lifestyle modifications, such as changes in diet and regular exercise. Medications and counseling might be recommended for more severe cases.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This term encompasses conditions characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Celiac Disease: This is an autoimmune disorder in which eating gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss can be symptoms.

  • The main treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet.

• Pancreatitis: This is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and rapid weight loss.

  • Treatment usually involves hospitalization, with intravenous fluids, pain relievers, and possibly surgery.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Stay hydrated: Diarrhea can cause dehydration, which can be dangerous if not addressed. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water or oral rehydration solutions available at pharmacies.
2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off an infection or recover from a flare-up of a chronic condition. Make sure you're getting plenty of sleep.
3. Avoid foods that can aggravate diarrhea: These include dairy products, fatty foods, high-fiber foods, and sweet foods.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

• See blood in your stool
• Have a fever higher than 100.4°F
• Are unable to keep liquids down due to vomiting
• Have signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dry skin, or feeling faint
• Experience severe abdominal pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.