Should I Monitor My Symptoms or Visit a Hospital for Gastro Issues?

Q: Should I Monitor My Symptoms or Visit a Hospital for Gastro Issues?

Hello： When there is significant abdominal peristalsis, several possible conditions may be present, including excessive fecal accumulation or gastrointestinal inflammation. <br>Please try to have a bowel movement first, and increase your intake of fruits and vegetables while redu

I would like to consult a doctor?

Two days ago, I suddenly experienced intense intestinal contractions and noticeably elevated body temperature, accompanied by some pain and diarrhea.
The situation improved during the day, so I didn't seek medical attention.
However, by evening, the symptoms worsened.
I woke up from abdominal cramping pain at around 3 AM after sleeping from midnight.
The pain recurred approximately every 10 to 20 minutes.
As soon as it was daytime, I went to see a doctor, who administered an injection, and my gastrointestinal pain improved.
I've been taking medication for a day now, but I occasionally experience unexplained numbness in my hands and feet.
Should I observe this for another day, or do you recommend going to a larger hospital for further examination? Thank you.

Nìngmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/23

Dr. Wu Zongying reply Family Medicine

Hello: When there is significant abdominal peristalsis, several possible conditions may be present, including excessive fecal accumulation or gastrointestinal inflammation.
Please try to have a bowel movement first, and increase your intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing fried foods.
If symptoms do not improve after a bowel movement, medical attention is necessary.

Reply Date: 2021/01/23

More Info

When it comes to gastrointestinal issues, especially when symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and changes in bowel habits occur, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely. Based on your description, it seems you experienced significant discomfort, including cramping and a noticeable increase in bowel activity, which prompted you to seek medical attention. This is a wise decision, especially when symptoms escalate to the point of disrupting your sleep.

Given that you received treatment and your symptoms have somewhat improved, it is essential to continue monitoring how you feel. However, the presence of persistent symptoms, such as abdominal pain that returns intermittently and the new onset of numbness or tingling in your extremities, warrants further investigation. While gastrointestinal symptoms can often be attributed to dietary choices, stress, or infections, the addition of neurological symptoms like numbness could indicate a more complex issue that requires a thorough evaluation.

In general, if your symptoms improve significantly with medication and you feel stable, you might consider observing your condition for another day or two. However, if you experience any of the following, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention:
1. Severe or worsening abdominal pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or does not improve with medication, it could indicate a more serious condition that needs urgent care.

2. Persistent diarrhea: If diarrhea continues for more than 48 hours or is accompanied by blood, fever, or dehydration, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider.

3. Neurological symptoms: The numbness or tingling in your hands and feet could be unrelated to your gastrointestinal issues, but it is essential to have these symptoms evaluated, especially if they persist or worsen.

4. Signs of dehydration: Symptoms such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, decreased urine output, or dizziness should prompt a visit to the hospital.

5. Fever: A significant fever accompanying gastrointestinal symptoms may indicate an infection that requires treatment.

In terms of your gastrointestinal health, if symptoms persist beyond a few days or if you have a history of gastrointestinal disorders, it may be prudent to undergo further diagnostic testing. This could include imaging studies, endoscopy, or laboratory tests to rule out conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, infections, or even structural abnormalities.

Dietary adjustments can also play a role in managing gastrointestinal symptoms. A bland diet, avoiding spicy, fatty, or highly acidic foods, and staying hydrated can help ease discomfort. Additionally, consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential triggers for your symptoms.

In summary, while it is reasonable to monitor your symptoms after an initial improvement, the emergence of new or persistent symptoms, especially neurological ones, should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If in doubt, seeking a second opinion or further evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly.

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