Severe Gastrointestinal Issues After Medication Overdose

Severe gastrointestinal issues?

I attempted suicide a month ago due to relationship issues, taking over sixty pills at once, including cold medicine, Abbott 15mg weight loss pills, and detox beauty pills.
The day before this incident, I also took twelve sleeping pills.
That night, I fell into a deep sleep for about three hours, after which I uncontrollably vomited.
The vomit had an unusually foul odor and was dark brown, almost black, and after drying, it appeared duck droppings green.
After vomiting, I felt extremely dizzy and subsequently visited a doctor (without disclosing the reason, I only mentioned vomiting without cause).
I was given some anti-nausea medication, and that seemed to resolve the issue.

However, since that incident, my heart rate has been very fast.
In the first week, it was so rapid that I needed medication to slow it down, and since then, it has only occasionally been fast.
Even now, I experience sudden episodes of rapid heartbeat.
A week after the suicide attempt, I suddenly had hematuria, which lasted for three to four days, with concentrated blood in my urine but no pain.
This resolved, but for some reason, I sometimes feel itching in my genital area after intercourse with my boyfriend, and occasionally there is bleeding, even when it is not close to my menstrual period.

Yesterday, after having intercourse with my boyfriend, I experienced hematuria again, but this time it was more severe, as I expelled not only blood but also some plasma and solid blood clots, again without any pain.
This stopped after three urinations.
However, today during a bowel movement, I noticed that my stool was duck droppings green, and the second bowel movement was dark green.
Over two years ago, I also experienced rectal bleeding, and I am unsure if there is something wrong with me.
I sincerely request your guidance.

kelly, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/29

Dr. Cai Zonglong reply Internal Medicine

Hello, I think your issue is quite complex.
It may be necessary to consult a hematologist to check for any bleeding tendencies.
Additionally, you should see an obstetrician-gynecologist to examine for any organ abnormalities.
The black vomit you experienced a month ago likely indicates hematemesis, suggesting there may be gastrointestinal issues.
This part may require evaluation by a gastroenterologist for better treatment options.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2005/03/29

More Info

I'm truly sorry to hear about the distressing situation you've been experiencing. It’s essential to understand that the symptoms you describe could be indicative of several serious medical issues, especially following an overdose of medications.
Firstly, the act of taking an overdose of medications, particularly those that can affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, can lead to a range of complications. The medications you mentioned, including cold medications, weight loss pills, and sleeping pills, can have various side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits. The dark brown or black vomit you experienced could suggest the presence of blood, which is a serious concern known as "coffee ground" emesis, indicating that there may have been bleeding in the upper GI tract.

The rapid heartbeat you mentioned could be a result of several factors, including anxiety, the effects of the medications, or even potential damage to your heart from the overdose. It's crucial to monitor this symptom closely, as persistent tachycardia (rapid heart rate) can lead to further complications.

The blood in your urine (hematuria) is particularly concerning. While it can sometimes be benign, it can also indicate serious conditions such as kidney damage, urinary tract infections, or even more severe issues like tumors or stones in the urinary tract. The absence of pain does not rule out serious conditions, and the presence of blood clots and plasma in your urine is alarming and warrants immediate medical evaluation.

The changes in your bowel movements, particularly the greenish color, can be attributed to several factors, including dietary changes, the medications you took, or even bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Green stool can occur when food moves too quickly through the intestines, preventing bile from fully breaking down, or it can indicate the presence of bile in the stool due to bleeding.

Given the complexity and severity of your symptoms, I strongly urge you to seek immediate medical attention. It’s vital to be open with your healthcare provider about your previous medication overdose and the symptoms you are experiencing. This information will help them conduct the necessary tests, such as blood tests, urine analysis, and possibly imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In addition to seeking medical help, consider reaching out to mental health professionals. The feelings that led to your overdose are serious and deserve attention. Therapy and counseling can provide support and coping strategies to help you through this difficult time.

In summary, your symptoms are concerning and could indicate serious medical issues that require immediate evaluation and treatment. Please prioritize your health and seek help as soon as possible.

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