[38M] Experiencing anxiety and gastrointestinal symptoms

What might be happening

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

• Anxiety Disorder: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including headaches, upset stomach, and diarrhea. It's also possible that your anxiety is exacerbating these symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for treating anxiety disorders. Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines, can also be helpful.

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

  • Treatment of IBS focuses on relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. Mild signs and symptoms can often be controlled by managing stress and by making changes in your diet and lifestyle.

• Gastroenteritis: Also known as stomach flu, this condition can cause watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes muscle aches or headache.

  • Treatment is usually home care. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medicines can help manage your symptoms and promote recovery.

Please note that low lymphocyte count can be caused by various conditions, including viral infections, malnutrition, and certain autoimmune disorders. It's important to discuss this with your doctor.

What you can do

1. Seek professional help: If your anxiety is causing significant distress or interfering with your life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Therapy, medication, and other strategies can help.
2. Practice stress management: Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and good nutrition can help your body better cope with stress. Mindfulness and relaxation exercises can also help.
3. Keep a symptom diary: This can help you identify triggers for your symptoms. Note what you eat, stressors, and where and when symptoms occur.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

• If you have severe abdominal pain or discomfort that doesn't improve after passing stool or gas
• If you have symptoms of dehydration, such as extreme thirst, dry mouth or skin, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness, or dark-colored urine
• If your anxiety becomes overwhelming or you have thoughts of harming yourself or others

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.