[45M] Experiencing gastrointestinal distress and significant weight loss

Patient Description

A 45-year-old male has been experiencing a constellation of gastrointestinal symptoms for the past six months, including constant achy stomach pain centered and lower right, fatigue, nausea, vomiting post solid food consumption, watery diarrhea, and incontinence. The patient reports 12-16 episodes of uncontrollable watery bowel movements daily, accompanied by frequent flatulence. Additionally, there has been significant weight loss of 70 pounds over the past two months, pallor, and the presence of hemorrhoids due to frequent diarrhea. The patient has a medical history of Crohn's disease, IBS-D, Bile Acid Malabsorption, and has undergone a cholecystectomy. Current medications include Humira, colestipol, Levothyroxin, imodium, Hyoscamine, Dicyclomine, zophran, and Diphenoxylate-Atropine, with no reported side effects. The patient also mentioned an allergy to Claritin, which causes a rash.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms and medical history, the following conditions could be contributing to your symptoms:

  • Crohn's Disease Flare-Up: Even though you mentioned that recent studies showed no activity, it's possible to have a flare-up. Symptoms can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Your symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea are common in IBS. However, your weight loss is not typically associated with IBS.

    • Treatment for IBS usually involves dietary changes, medication, and addressing stress and mental health.
  • Bile Acid Malabsorption: This condition can cause chronic diarrhea and weight loss. It can occur in people who have had their gallbladder removed (cholecystectomy).

    • Treatment typically involves a low-fat diet and medications that bind to bile acids.
  • Malabsorption Syndromes: Conditions like Celiac Disease or Pancreatic Insufficiency can cause weight loss, diarrhea, and malnutrition, leading to pallor.

    • Treatment involves managing the underlying condition, often with dietary changes and enzyme supplements.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also explain your symptoms.

What you can do

  1. Consult with your doctor as soon as possible. They may need to adjust your current treatment plan or investigate other potential causes of your symptoms.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, what you're eating, and any other relevant factors. This can help your doctor identify patterns and potential triggers.
  3. Stay hydrated and try to eat small, frequent meals. This can help manage your symptoms and ensure you're getting enough nutrients.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms significantly worsen
  • You have severe abdominal pain
  • You notice blood in your stool (not related to your known hemorrhoids)
  • You become faint or dizzy

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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8 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a Crohn's disease flare-up?

Common symptoms of a Crohn's disease flare-up include persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, and sometimes fever. These symptoms occur due to inflammation in the digestive tract.


How does bile acid malabsorption affect digestion after gallbladder removal?

Bile acid malabsorption can lead to chronic diarrhea and weight loss because the body struggles to properly absorb bile acids, which are crucial for digesting fats. This is more common after gallbladder removal.


What dietary changes can help manage IBS symptoms?

Dietary changes for managing IBS symptoms often include increasing fiber intake, avoiding trigger foods like caffeine and dairy, eating smaller meals, and staying hydrated. Some people find relief by following a low FODMAP diet.


What are the signs of malabsorption syndromes like Celiac Disease?

Signs of malabsorption syndromes like Celiac Disease include chronic diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, bloating, and nutritional deficiencies. These occur because the body cannot properly absorb nutrients from food.

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