[46F] With jaundice and gastrointestinal symptoms

Patient Description

A 46-year-old female presents with jaundice, including yellowing of the skin on the face and neck and puffy eyebrows, which started today. She also reports an upset stomach for the past two weeks, including a sick feeling and vomiting once. Additionally, she has experienced ear pain, headaches (two in the past two weeks) that are sharp and pulsating with an intensity of 10 out of 10, worsened by stress and being on her phone. The patient has a loss of appetite and has experienced weight loss. She reports diarrhea every 4-5 days, bad stomach cramps, and bloody mucus in her stool, occurring three times in the past two weeks. Her medical history includes breast cancer diagnosed in 2021, Hepatitis C diagnosed in 2019, and polymyalgia diagnosed in 2019. She has no known drug allergies. Current medications include Klonopin (1 and 1/2 tablets daily), Meloxicam, Effexor, Latrudia, Trazodone, Gabapentin, an iron supplement, a folic supplement, and B12 vitamin.

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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:

  • Liver Conditions (e.g., Hepatitis, Cirrhosis): Given your history of Hepatitis C, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) could indicate liver dysfunction. Hepatitis C can lead to chronic liver disease, which might explain your jaundice, upset stomach, and changes in stool.

    • Typical Testing: Blood tests to check liver function, imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan, and possibly a liver biopsy.
    • Treatment: Antiviral medications for Hepatitis C, lifestyle changes, and possibly medications to manage symptoms of liver disease.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues (e.g., Inflammatory Bowel Disease, IBS): The presence of diarrhea, stomach cramps, and bloody mucus in the stool could indicate a gastrointestinal condition such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

    • Typical Testing: Colonoscopy, stool tests, and blood tests to check for inflammation and infection.
    • Treatment: Medications to reduce inflammation, dietary changes, and sometimes surgery.
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica: This condition can cause widespread pain and stiffness, which might contribute to your overall discomfort and headaches.

    • Typical Testing: Blood tests to check for inflammation markers.
    • Treatment: Corticosteroids and other medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
  • Side Effects of Medications: Some of your symptoms could be side effects of the medications you are taking, such as Meloxicam, Klonopin, and Effexor.

    • Typical Testing: Review of medications with a healthcare provider.
    • Treatment: Adjusting dosages or switching medications under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

What you can do

  1. Consult Your Doctor: Given the complexity and severity of your symptoms, it is crucial to see your healthcare provider as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation.
  2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including their frequency, duration, and any potential triggers. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea.
  4. Avoid Alcohol: Given your history of Hepatitis C and potential liver issues, it is best to avoid alcohol, which can further damage the liver.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe Abdominal Pain: This could indicate a more serious underlying condition.
  • High Fever or Chills: These could be signs of an infection.
  • Persistent Vomiting: This could lead to dehydration and further complications.
  • Confusion or Altered Mental State: This could be a sign of severe liver dysfunction or other serious conditions.
  • Increased Jaundice: If the yellowing of your skin and eyes worsens, it could indicate worsening liver function.

Please remember that this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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7 mo ago

People Also Ask


What causes jaundice and how is it related to liver conditions?

Jaundice is caused by an excess of bilirubin in the blood, which can occur when the liver is not functioning properly. Conditions like Hepatitis C can lead to liver damage, resulting in jaundice.


What are the common symptoms and treatments for inflammatory bowel disease?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and bloody stools. Treatments often involve medications to reduce inflammation, dietary changes, and sometimes surgery.


Can medications cause symptoms like headaches and stomach issues?

Yes, medications can cause side effects such as headaches and gastrointestinal issues. It's important to review your medications with a healthcare provider to determine if they might be contributing to your symptoms.


How does Hepatitis C affect the liver and what are the treatment options?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that can cause chronic liver inflammation and damage, potentially leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer. Treatment typically involves antiviral medications to clear the virus and prevent further liver damage.


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1 Comments


Billy#3955

7 mo ago

Is the jaundice new? As you might know, jaundice tends to be due to impaired clearance of bile, which can be due to a liver problem or a blockage in your bile ducts.

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