Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Is It Really Gastroenteritis?

It feels somewhat like gastroenteritis, but not exactly?

Hello, doctor.
For the past two weeks, I've been experiencing discomfort around my navel, and previously I would have a bowel movement once a day without constipation.
However, in the past few days, I've suddenly noticed irregular bowel movements, with a reduced volume compared to before.
The latter part of my bowel movements has been soft and mushy.
Two days ago, I visited a clinic, and the doctor diagnosed me with gastroenteritis.
At that time, I thought it didn't feel like gastroenteritis since I wasn't experiencing diarrhea.
After taking the medication prescribed by the doctor, I ended up having diarrhea the next night, with stool that was mushy and contained some undigested black rice.
Since then, I've been feeling discomfort in my intestines, but today when I tried to have a bowel movement, I couldn't.
I would like to ask the doctor if this situation is truly gastroenteritis, or if I should go to a larger hospital for a colonoscopy.
Lastly, I want to ask the doctor about my eating habits.
About four years ago, I used to eat fried chicken almost every night for over a year.
After seeing news reports about the increased risk of colon cancer from frequent consumption, I stopped that bad habit.
Now, whenever I feel discomfort in my abdomen, I worry about it.
Should I get checked out? Thank you, doctor.

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/26

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is likely a short-term dysmotility of the gastrointestinal tract (including gastroenteritis).
First, pay attention to dietary habits.
If constipation persists, discontinue the use of laxatives and consider checking for fecal occult blood.

Reply Date: 2019/07/26

More Info

Gastrointestinal discomfort can be a perplexing issue, especially when symptoms overlap with various conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including discomfort around the navel, changes in bowel habits, and the presence of undigested food in your stool. You mentioned that a doctor diagnosed you with gastroenteritis, but you feel that your symptoms do not align with this diagnosis, particularly since you do not experience diarrhea or significant abdominal cramping.

Gastroenteritis is typically characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often resulting from viral or bacterial infections. Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever. However, your symptoms suggest a more complex situation. The presence of soft, sticky stools and difficulty in bowel movements could indicate a functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a mild case of constipation rather than a straightforward case of gastroenteritis.

The fact that you have noticed a change in your bowel habits, with less frequent and softer stools, is concerning and warrants further investigation. While gastroenteritis can cause temporary changes in bowel habits, the persistence of your symptoms over the past two weeks suggests that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Given your history of dietary habits, particularly your previous consumption of fried foods, it is understandable that you may be concerned about the long-term effects on your gastrointestinal health. While there is no direct link between eating fried foods and colorectal cancer, a diet high in unhealthy fats and low in fiber can contribute to various gastrointestinal issues, including constipation and discomfort.
Considering your symptoms and concerns, it may be prudent to seek further evaluation. A colonoscopy could be beneficial, especially since you have a history of dietary habits that may have contributed to your current discomfort. A colonoscopy can help rule out any structural abnormalities, polyps, or other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. Additionally, if there is a family history of gastrointestinal diseases or cancers, this further emphasizes the importance of thorough screening.

In the meantime, you might consider dietary adjustments to alleviate your symptoms. Increasing your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help regulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive health. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as it can aid in digestion and prevent constipation.
Lastly, it is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and symptoms. If you feel that your current treatment is not effective or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or request further testing. Your health is paramount, and proactive measures can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.
In summary, while gastroenteritis is a possibility, your symptoms suggest that a more complex issue may be at play. A thorough evaluation, including a potential colonoscopy, could provide clarity and help guide appropriate treatment. Remember to maintain a balanced diet and stay in touch with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms.

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