[43F] Experiencing constant nausea and irregular bowel movements
Patient Description
A 43-year-old female has been suffering from constant, moderate nausea for six years, which is not related to meals and is persistent throughout the day. The only relief reported is from ginger ale. Additionally, for the past two years, she has experienced irregular bowel movements, alternating between solid and watery stools, with the most recent being somewhat solid and light brown in color. She has not noticed any specific food triggers or patterns related to the timing of these symptoms. The patient has a history of fibromyalgia diagnosed in 2014 and takes Tylenol for pain management. No allergies to medications have been reported, and no recent travel history was noted. There is no reported fever, chills, or blood in the stool, but she does experience abdominal pain. No significant weight loss has been observed.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms, the following conditions could be possible:
- Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, typically caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites. It can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. However, it usually resolves within a few days, which does not align with your chronic symptoms.
- 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, or both. Your symptoms of nausea, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements could be indicative of IBS.
- Gastroparesis: This is a condition where the stomach cannot empty itself of food in a normal fashion. It is most often a complication of type 1 diabetes. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and feeling full quickly when eating.
- Chronic Pancreatitis: This is a long-standing inflammation of the pancreas that alters its normal structure and functions. It can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. It can also cause abdominal pain and bloating.
Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
What you can do
- Maintain a healthy diet: Try to eat small, frequent meals instead of three large meals a day. Avoid foods that are high in fat and fiber, as they can cause further stomach irritation and promote diarrhea.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to prevent dehydration from diarrhea.
- Over-the-counter medication: You can try over-the-counter medication that helps reduce nausea and regulate bowel movements. However, please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
- Regular exercise: Regular, gentle exercise can help reduce symptoms of IBS and fibromyalgia.
What you should look out for
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
- High fever (above 101°F)
- Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, little to no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
- Unexplained weight loss
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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1 yr ago
