Managing Bloating, Gas, and Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal Health Tips

I have been experiencing bloating, belching, and diarrhea with loose stools for some time?

Hello Doctor: I woke up around the early morning of May 26th feeling bloated, having difficulty breathing, warmth in my chest, a strong heartbeat, and loss of appetite.
After visiting a clinic in the morning, the doctor believed it was due to anxiety and gastroenteritis.
The issue with my strong heartbeat alleviated by the evening when I sought a second consultation.
My loss of appetite improved after three to four days.
However, the issue of unformed stools has persisted without significant improvement, and the bloating has evolved from occurring before sleep at night to post-meal bloating and occasional bloating between meals, sometimes causing difficulty in breathing.
Burping helps significantly, and I can feel intestinal peristalsis (with sounds) at night.

Today, while taking my dog for a drive, I noticed a short, flat, moving parasite (likely a tapeworm) that had fallen from my dog's anus.
I took my dog to the veterinary hospital for examination, and after the doctor examined the worm's remains, they prescribed deworming medication for my dog.
My dog's living conditions do not require walks, as they urinate at home, and even when taken out for walks, they do not lick or eat things indiscriminately.
They are bathed regularly, especially due to the recent pandemic, and have only been out for drives.
Since my dog sleeps with us, I am concerned about the possibility of transmission.
After discussing with my family physician and considering the uncertainty of infection or irritable bowel syndrome, we decided to prescribe medication to prevent bloating, alleviate phlegm, and address post-nasal drip (recent issues), as well as a medication for digestive health, to be taken one tablet in the morning and evening for three days to monitor the situation.

Regarding my diet, I have only consumed raw scallions, which were washed before use.
The only uncooked scallions I had were in a hot pot sauce around May 17th; the rest were mostly cooked.
I would like to ask the doctor what would be the best course of action for me given the current severe pandemic situation.
Thank you.

Da Wei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/14

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Medication compliance, light diet, and relaxation.

Reply Date: 2021/06/14

More Info

Managing gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea can be quite challenging, especially when they are accompanied by anxiety and other symptoms. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of gastrointestinal distress and anxiety, which can often exacerbate each other. Here are some strategies and recommendations to help manage your symptoms effectively.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Bloating and Gas: These symptoms can be caused by various factors, including dietary choices, eating habits, and stress. Foods that are high in fiber, such as beans, lentils, and certain vegetables, can lead to gas production. Additionally, swallowing air while eating or drinking can contribute to bloating.

2. Diarrhea: This can be a result of gastrointestinal infections, food intolerances, or stress. Since you mentioned that your stool is not well-formed, it may indicate that your digestive system is reacting to something, possibly related to anxiety or an infection.

3. Anxiety: Anxiety can significantly impact your gastrointestinal health. It can lead to increased gut motility, resulting in diarrhea, and can also cause sensations of bloating and discomfort.

Dietary Recommendations
1. Avoid Trigger Foods: Identify and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms. Common culprits include dairy products, high-fat foods, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners. Keeping a food diary can help you pinpoint specific triggers.

2. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, try eating smaller meals throughout the day. This can help reduce bloating and discomfort.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but try to avoid drinking large amounts during meals, as this can contribute to bloating.

4. Incorporate Probiotics: Foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which may alleviate some gastrointestinal symptoms.

5. Cook Your Vegetables: Since raw vegetables can sometimes cause gas, consider cooking them to make them easier to digest.

Lifestyle Modifications
1. Manage Stress: Since anxiety can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques into your daily routine. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can be beneficial.

2. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help improve digestion and reduce stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

3. Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you are getting enough restful sleep. Poor sleep can worsen anxiety and gastrointestinal symptoms. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.

Monitoring Your Health
1. Observe Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including when they occur and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your ongoing symptoms and concerns about potential infections (such as the possibility of having contracted something from your dog), it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing or treatment options based on your symptoms and medical history.

3. Follow-Up on Medications: If you have been prescribed medications for your symptoms, ensure you follow the dosage instructions and discuss any side effects or concerns with your doctor.

Conclusion
Managing gastrointestinal health requires a multifaceted approach that includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and stress management. Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive the appropriate care and support. By implementing these strategies, you may find relief from your symptoms and improve your overall gastrointestinal health.

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