[37F] With green diarrhea and concussion symptoms

Patient Description

A 37-year-old female presents with green, mucusy diarrhea that started 30 minutes ago. She has had only one episode and reports no specific food triggers, recent travel, or unfamiliar food consumption. Additionally, she is experiencing symptoms related to a concussion, including blurry vision (making everything look out of focus), a swollen head, headaches, and a burning and tingling sensation in the head, all of which have been present for the past 7 hours. The patient reports a lot of pressure in the head and some neck stiffness but denies fever, changes in consciousness, or seizures. She also experiences random episodes of bad sweating. The patient has a history of anemia, concussion, asthma, anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. She has multiple allergies, including to Kflexx, sulfa, ibuprofen, cypro, Toppamaxx, Teridol, clindamycin, and Flagyl. The only medication she is currently taking is Albuterol as needed. The patient reports a recent history of domestic violence with repeated head trauma.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Post-Concussion Syndrome: Given your history of repeated head trauma and current symptoms (blurry vision, headache, burning and tingling sensations, neck stiffness, and pressure in the head), it's possible you are experiencing post-concussion syndrome. This condition can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties, which can persist for weeks or months after the initial injury.

    • Treatment typically involves rest and avoiding activities that could cause another concussion. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage headaches, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive treatment plan.
  • Gastrointestinal Infection or Irritation: The green, mucusy diarrhea could be due to a gastrointestinal infection or irritation. This can sometimes occur due to a viral or bacterial infection, or even from stress and anxiety, which you have a history of.

    • Treatment usually involves staying hydrated, eating a bland diet, and possibly taking over-the-counter medications to manage diarrhea. If symptoms persist, a doctor might recommend stool tests to identify the cause.
  • Stress and Anxiety: Your history of anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could be contributing to both your gastrointestinal symptoms and your heightened sensitivity to pain and discomfort.

    • Treatment for anxiety and PTSD often involves therapy, medication, and stress management techniques. It's important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure they are being managed effectively.

What you can do

  1. Rest and Monitor Symptoms: Given your history of concussions, it's crucial to rest and avoid activities that could lead to another head injury. Monitor your symptoms closely.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially with the diarrhea. Oral rehydration solutions can be helpful.
  3. Eat a Bland Diet: Stick to a bland diet (e.g., bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to help manage your gastrointestinal symptoms.
  4. Seek Medical Attention: Given the combination of symptoms and your history of head trauma, it's important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate tests and treatments.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Worsening headache or pressure in the head
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
  • Severe abdominal pain or blood in your stool
  • Fever or chills
  • Changes in consciousness or seizures
  • Severe neck stiffness or sensitivity to light

It's important to consult a healthcare provider to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your symptoms, especially given your history of head trauma, warrant a thorough evaluation by a medical professional.

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7 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is post-concussion syndrome and how long can it last?

Post-concussion syndrome is a complex disorder in which various symptoms, such as headaches and dizziness, last for weeks or months after the injury that caused the concussion. The duration can vary, but symptoms typically resolve within three months, although some people may experience them for a year or more.


What could cause green, mucusy diarrhea if there are no recent food triggers or travel?

Green, mucusy diarrhea can be caused by a gastrointestinal infection or irritation, which might occur due to a viral or bacterial infection, or even from stress and anxiety. It's important to stay hydrated and monitor symptoms, and if they persist, consult a healthcare provider.


How can stress and anxiety affect physical symptoms like headaches and gastrointestinal issues?

Stress and anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms by increasing the body's sensitivity to pain and discomfort. They can also affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms like diarrhea or stomach pain. Managing stress through therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques can help alleviate these symptoms.


What are the signs that indicate I should seek immediate medical attention after a concussion?

After a concussion, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience worsening headaches, persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, fever, changes in consciousness, seizures, or severe neck stiffness. These could indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt evaluation.


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