[35F] Experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort and irregular bowel movements

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, the following conditions could be possible:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you'll need to manage long term.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as changes in diet and regular physical activity.

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is particularly common and highly infectious. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, headache, fever and chills.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration and antibiotics if it's bacterial.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and feeling full in your upper abdomen after eating.

  • Treatment usually involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which helps relieve symptoms and promotes healing.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: These are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, lower esophagus, or small intestine. They’re usually formed as a result of inflammation caused by the bacteria H. pylori, as well as from erosion from stomach acids. Symptoms include burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, bloating, and intolerance to fatty foods.

  • Treatment usually involves medication to decrease stomach acid. If a H. pylori infection is present, antibiotics are also used.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be possible.

What you can do

You should seek medical attention to get a proper diagnosis. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Keep a food diary: Write down what you eat and how you feel after each meal to help identify any food triggers.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help prevent dehydration, especially if you're experiencing diarrhea.
3. Eat small, frequent meals: Instead of three large meals a day, try eating six small meals to help manage your feeling of fullness.
4. Avoid fatty, greasy foods: Since you've mentioned that these types of foods seem to worsen your bloating, it might be helpful to avoid them.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool or vomit
• Unintentional weight loss
• Persistent or worsening symptoms

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different approaches. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.