Abdominal Pain, Diarrhea, and Blood: Possible Causes and Relief

Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding?

Hello, I am 23 years old, a non-smoker and non-drinker, currently in the United States.
Recently, I have been experiencing frequent abdominal pain, and after bowel movements, I have noticed that my stools are loose and sometimes contain blood, although the volume is not very large.
Typically, the abdominal pain improves significantly after a bowel movement, but I may experience pain several times a day.
I would like to know what possible issues this could indicate and if there are any ways to alleviate the symptoms.

Miss He, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/30

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

This situation is likely a higher possibility of irritable bowel syndrome combined with hemorrhoidal bleeding.
As long as there is no further bleeding, it should not be a concern.
It is recommended to avoid constipation during this period, shorten the time spent on bowel movements, increase the intake of dietary fiber, and avoid spicy and irritating foods, which can also be helpful.
Warm sitz baths should help alleviate symptoms, and you can also purchase hemorrhoidal suppositories at the pharmacy.
It is best not to take stool softeners indiscriminately.
If bleeding persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2020/01/30

More Info

Abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea and blood in the stool can be concerning and may indicate several underlying conditions. Given your age and lifestyle choices (non-smoker, non-drinker), there are a few potential causes to consider.
1. Infectious Gastroenteritis: This is one of the most common causes of abdominal pain and diarrhea, especially if you have recently consumed contaminated food or water. Viral infections (like norovirus or rotavirus) or bacterial infections (such as Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter) can lead to symptoms like abdominal cramps, diarrhea (which may be watery or bloody), and sometimes fever.
2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stool. These are autoimmune conditions that lead to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms can be intermittent and may worsen during flare-ups.

3. Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become inflamed or infected. It can cause significant abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and sometimes blood in the stool.

4. Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures: While these are less serious, they can cause blood in the stool, especially if there is straining during bowel movements. They may also accompany abdominal pain, particularly if there is associated constipation.

5. Food Intolerances or Allergies: Conditions such as lactose intolerance or celiac disease can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain and diarrhea, especially after consuming certain foods.

6. Colon Polyps or Colorectal Cancer: Although less common in younger individuals, these can present with similar symptoms, particularly if there is a family history of colorectal issues.

Recommendations for Relief and Next Steps:
1. Stay Hydrated: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s crucial to drink plenty of fluids. Oral rehydration solutions can be beneficial.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Consider following a bland diet (BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to help ease your symptoms. Avoid dairy, fatty foods, and high-fiber foods until your symptoms improve.

3. Over-the-Counter Medications: Medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help reduce diarrhea, but they should be used cautiously, especially if there is blood in your stool, as they can worsen certain infections.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency of diarrhea, presence of blood, and any associated symptoms like fever or weight loss.

5. Seek Medical Attention: Given the presence of blood in your stool and persistent abdominal pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend tests such as stool cultures, blood tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause.

6. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s helpful to consider potential causes, only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan based on a thorough evaluation.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention to rule out serious conditions and receive appropriate treatment. Your health and well-being should always be the priority, and timely intervention can lead to better outcomes.

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Dear Mr. Binson, regarding your condition, it is recommended that you promptly visit a gastroenterologist for evaluation and arrange for further tests to rule out the possibility of gastrointestinal bleeding. Thank you for your inquiry. Changhua Hospital cares about your health.