[56M] Experiencing left lower quadrant abdominal pain with associated symptoms

What might be happening

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

• Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) that have formed in the wall of the colon become inflamed or infected. The most common symptom is abdominal pain, usually on the left side. You might also experience fever, nausea, and a change in your bowel habits such as increased frequency or constipation.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to treat the infection, a temporary liquid diet to allow your colon to heal, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, hospitalization or surgery may be required.

• Gastroenteritis: Often called the stomach flu, this is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, headache, fever and chills.

  • Treatment usually consists of rest and rehydration. Over-the-counter medication may help control your symptoms.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both.

  • Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. This may involve diet changes, medication, and managing stress.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention given the severity of your symptoms. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

1. Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost through diarrhea. Water is good, but adding broth or drinks with electrolytes can be beneficial.

2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting extra sleep can help.

3. Use over-the-counter medication: Medication like loperamide (Imodium) can help control diarrhea.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical help if you:

• Have severe abdominal or rectal pain
• Have blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
• Have high fever (above 101.3 F)
• Have signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, little to no urination, severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness, or dark-colored urine
• Have had diarrhea for more than two days

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's really important you seek care from a healthcare professional who can properly diagnose and treat your condition.