[35F] Experiencing acute abdominal swelling and sharp back pain with diarrhea

What might be happening

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

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes nausea and vomiting.

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

• 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.

  • Treatment often includes diet changes, medication, and stress management.

• Pancreatitis: This is inflammation of the pancreas. It can cause severe abdominal pain and diarrhea.

  • Treatment usually involves hospitalization, pain management, IV fluids, and sometimes surgery.

• Gallstones: Although you've mentioned that you don't have a gallbladder, it's possible to have a stone in the bile ducts that was left behind after gallbladder surgery. This can cause abdominal pain and swelling.

  • Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the stone.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms, but only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Stay hydrated: Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so it's important to drink plenty of fluids. Try to drink water, broth or rehydration drinks.

2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting extra sleep can help.

3. Over-the-counter medication: Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication might help reduce the frequency of your stools.

4. Diet: Try to eat when you feel up to it, but stick to light, low-fat foods such as rice, crackers and bananas.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain in your abdomen or rectum
• Bloody or black stools
• High fever (above 101.3°F)
• Signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, little to no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Persistent vomiting
• Diarrhea that lasts more than three days

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in person.