Digestive Issues: Could Your Symptoms Indicate Pancreatic Problems?

Bowel-related issues and pancreatic problems?

Doctor, I would like to ask a question.
On January 3rd, due to the cold weather and strong winds that evening, I might have caught a chill, which led to a fever of about 37.8 degrees Celsius.
On my way home, I bought some ready-to-eat food from a convenience store, and later that night, I developed a fever (not sure if it’s related).
I took paracetamol to reduce the fever.
The next day, I experienced watery diarrhea, which has continued until now.
Initially, the watery stools were of normal color, but later they became increasingly pale, with a layer of oil floating on top.
However, after wiping, the stool on the toilet paper still appeared to be a more normal yellow color.
This may be due to the watery consistency.
Today, I decided to take probiotics to see if it would help, but after taking them, my stools remained watery in the evening.
However, they did not have the same "water faucet" sensation as yesterday (it was not as forceful).
After having a bowel movement, I noticed a layer of white floating on top, which alarmed me.
I am unsure if this indicates a problem with my pancreas or something else, as I have previously had gastroenteritis and underwent a colonoscopy where two benign polyps were removed.
This situation feels strange; although I have watery stools, my abdomen does not hurt.
However, I do feel a sensation of something being blocked in my left abdomen.
What should I do? What kind of tests should I undergo? If this is indeed related to pancreatic cancer, what steps should I take?

KZK, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/05

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The described process pertains to enteritis, which involves a light diet and seeking medical attention for medication management as necessary, while monitoring for changes.
Rapid testing may also be considered.

Reply Date: 2023/01/05

More Info

Your symptoms and concerns about potential pancreatic issues are understandable, especially given your history of gastrointestinal problems. Let's break down your situation and address your questions regarding the possibility of pancreatic problems, particularly in relation to your recent symptoms of watery stools, fever, and the presence of a white, oily layer on your stool.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Watery Stools: The presence of watery stools, especially if they have changed in color and consistency, can indicate several gastrointestinal issues. The fact that you have experienced a change to a lighter color and an oily appearance may suggest malabsorption, which can occur with pancreatic insufficiency. The pancreas produces enzymes that are crucial for digesting fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. If the pancreas is not functioning properly, it can lead to fatty stools (steatorrhea) that float and appear oily.

2. Fever: The fever you experienced could be a response to an infection or inflammation in your body. It’s important to consider whether this fever was related to a gastrointestinal infection or another cause. If you had a recent episode of gastroenteritis, it could explain the watery stools and fever.

3. Left Abdominal Discomfort: The sensation of something "blocking" in your left abdomen could be related to various factors, including gas, constipation, or even an issue with the intestines or pancreas.

Potential Pancreatic Issues
Given your symptoms, there are a few pancreatic conditions to consider:
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can lead to abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. Acute pancreatitis can be caused by gallstones, alcohol consumption, or other factors, but it can also occur without obvious causes.

- Pancreatic Insufficiency: This occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, leading to malabsorption and symptoms like oily stools.

- Pancreatic Cancer: While it is less common in younger individuals, it is a concern if there are significant changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain. Early-stage pancreatic cancer often does not present with clear symptoms, which can make diagnosis challenging.

Recommended Actions
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: Given your symptoms and history, it would be prudent to consult a gastroenterologist. They can evaluate your symptoms in detail and may recommend further testing.

2. Diagnostic Tests: Tests such as blood tests (including amylase and lipase levels), abdominal ultrasound, or CT scans can help assess the condition of your pancreas. A stool test can also be useful to check for fat malabsorption.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms, such as weight loss, changes in appetite, or persistent abdominal pain. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

4. Dietary Adjustments: While waiting for your appointment, consider adjusting your diet to avoid fatty foods, which may exacerbate symptoms if there is a pancreatic issue. Staying hydrated is also important, especially with ongoing diarrhea.

Conclusion
While your symptoms could suggest pancreatic issues, they could also be related to other gastrointestinal conditions. It is essential to seek medical advice to clarify the cause of your symptoms and to determine the appropriate course of action. Early diagnosis and management are key to addressing any potential issues effectively. Remember, while it’s natural to worry about serious conditions like pancreatic cancer, many gastrointestinal symptoms can be attributed to less severe issues that can be managed with proper care.

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