Should You See a Doctor? Menstrual and Digestive Issues

Do I need to see a doctor?

This menstrual period started on the 20th, with dark and heavy flow, accompanied by diarrhea that progressively worsened, changing from semi-solid to watery stools, leading to frequent bowel movements, approximately ten times over the weekend.
(Previously, there was mild diarrhea during menstruation, but it was manageable.) Additionally, there are symptoms of chills, sharp pain on the left side of the abdomen near the navel, stomach pain (upper left abdomen), dizziness (severe enough to want to lie down), and intermittent episodes of these symptoms.
My eyes feel sore and strained, especially when moving side to side.

Attachment 1: I had a cesarean section on May 21 and breastfed until early July.
My first postpartum period occurred on September 10 (after not having a period for a while; I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who mentioned they would help regulate it a few days before my period).

Attachment 2: Since the onset of this menstrual period, I feel that my skin has become thinner.
Is this a medical issue, a physiological factor, or is it normal?

Xiao Ya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/26

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Family Medicine

1.
Diarrhea with watery stools, fear of cold, and abdominal pain are symptoms of gastroenteritis.
If these symptoms have not resolved, medical attention should be sought promptly.
(If it is caused by endometriosis, there should not be symptoms like fear of cold.)
2.
Has your skin become thinner? This may be related to postpartum changes; being a mother certainly comes with its sacrifices.

Reply Date: 2004/10/26

More Info

Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a combination of menstrual and gastrointestinal symptoms that are causing you significant discomfort. Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is indeed advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here’s a breakdown of your situation and some insights into what might be happening.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Menstrual Changes: You mentioned that your menstrual flow has changed, becoming darker and more substantial than usual. This can sometimes occur due to hormonal fluctuations, especially after childbirth. The fact that you are experiencing this change alongside other symptoms could indicate that your body is still adjusting post-pregnancy.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: The diarrhea you are experiencing, which has escalated to watery stools, is concerning. This could be due to several factors, including dietary changes, stress, or even an infection. The fact that you are having frequent bowel movements (up to ten times a day) is not typical and warrants medical attention.

3. Accompanying Symptoms: The left-sided abdominal pain, chills, dizziness, and fatigue are also significant. These symptoms could suggest a more systemic issue, such as an infection or inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. The dizziness and fatigue, especially if they are severe, could indicate dehydration due to diarrhea, which is a serious concern.

4. Skin Changes: You noted that your skin feels thinner. This could be related to hormonal changes post-pregnancy, but it’s essential to discuss this with a doctor as well, especially if you notice other changes in your skin or overall health.

When to See a Doctor
Given the combination of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Here are some specific reasons why you should see a doctor:
- Severe Diarrhea: If diarrhea persists for more than a couple of days, especially with accompanying symptoms like abdominal pain and dizziness, it is essential to get evaluated. Dehydration can occur quickly, particularly if you are losing fluids through diarrhea.

- Abdominal Pain: Left-sided abdominal pain, particularly if it is severe or persistent, should be assessed to rule out any serious conditions, such as an infection or gastrointestinal disorder.

- Menstrual Irregularities: Changes in your menstrual cycle, especially after childbirth, should be discussed with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if these changes are normal or if they require further investigation.

- Overall Health Concerns: Your symptoms of fatigue and dizziness could indicate that your body is under stress, possibly from dehydration or another underlying issue. It’s essential to address these symptoms promptly.

What to Expect at the Doctor's Office
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- Medical History: Discuss your symptoms in detail, including the timeline and any other relevant health information.

- Physical Examination: A physical exam may be performed to assess your abdominal pain and any other physical symptoms.

- Diagnostic Tests: Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may order blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies to determine the cause of your symptoms.

- Treatment Plan: Based on the findings, the doctor will develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs, which may include medications, dietary changes, or further referrals to specialists if necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms suggest that you should see a doctor as soon as possible. The combination of menstrual irregularities, gastrointestinal distress, and systemic symptoms like dizziness and fatigue could indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and get the care you need. Your health is important, and addressing these concerns early can lead to better outcomes.

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