Diarrhea with Blood: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues

Diarrhea with blood in the stool?

Hello Doctor: On the morning of the 10th, I suddenly experienced severe abdominal pain (cramping in the lower abdomen), diarrhea, nausea, and cold sweats.
The first bowel movement was watery and coffee-colored, and the second was a mushy consistency, half coffee-colored and half red (I don't recall eating any foods that could cause discoloration).
The pain radiated from my abdomen to my stomach.
By the morning of the 10th, the abdominal pain had subsided, but I experienced bloating and felt air moving in my abdomen.
On the morning of the 11th, I had mild abdominal pain followed by the urge to have a bowel movement; the stool was soft with scattered edges and mixed with many substances resembling seaweed, and there was red mucus on the surface.
I continue to experience bloating and the sensation of air moving in my abdomen.
What could this condition be? Could it be related to eating a medium-rare onsen egg a week ago?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/11

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Please visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for an examination.

Reply Date: 2019/11/11

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including severe abdominal pain, diarrhea with blood, and changes in stool consistency, are concerning and warrant immediate medical attention. The combination of these symptoms suggests a potential gastrointestinal issue that could range from mild to severe.
Firstly, the presence of blood in your stool, especially when accompanied by abdominal pain and changes in stool consistency, raises the possibility of several conditions. One common cause of bloody diarrhea is infectious gastroenteritis, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Given that you mentioned consuming a soft-boiled egg, there is a possibility of foodborne illness, particularly if the egg was undercooked or contaminated. Bacterial infections such as Salmonella or Campylobacter can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and fever.

Another potential cause could be inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may contain blood or mucus), and changes in bowel habits. The presence of mucus and the description of your stool resembling "seaweed" could suggest mucosal inflammation, which is often seen in IBD.

Additionally, diverticulitis, which is the inflammation or infection of small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon, could also present with similar symptoms, including abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and possibly blood in the stool.
Given the severity of your symptoms, including the acute onset of pain and the presence of blood, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend several diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. These tests could include:
1. Stool Tests: To identify any infectious agents or blood in the stool.

2. Blood Tests: To check for signs of infection, anemia, or inflammation.

3. Imaging Studies: Such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to visualize the gastrointestinal tract and identify any abnormalities.

4. Endoscopy: Depending on the findings, a gastroenterologist may recommend a colonoscopy or upper endoscopy to directly visualize the gastrointestinal tract and obtain biopsies if necessary.

In the meantime, it is essential to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea, as this can lead to dehydration. Avoid any foods that may irritate your stomach further, such as spicy or fatty foods, and consider a bland diet until you can see a healthcare provider.

In summary, the combination of severe abdominal pain, diarrhea with blood, and changes in stool consistency is concerning and could indicate a serious gastrointestinal condition. It is imperative to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

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