Is Self-Medicating for Digestive Issues After Injury a Mistake?

Q: Is Self-Medicating for Digestive Issues After Injury a Mistake?

Hello, netizens： Bowel issues are generally not related to gastric ulcers, but they may be associated with medications (such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs). <br>It is recommended to first check your stool and take digestive medications. <br>Discontinue any potentiall

I'm not sure if my approach to seeing an internist is correct?

I originally had mental and gastrointestinal disorders.
Recently, after falling off my motorcycle and taking anti-inflammatory medication, my pre-existing gastrointestinal issues (specifically pain in the area just below the sternum, near the triangular region) flared up again.
I retrieved an old medication that previously required an endoscopy for prescription and continued to take it out-of-pocket at my previous internal medicine clinic.
At the same time, I began treatment for a torn anterior cruciate ligament caused by the fall.
During the treatment process, after the surgery performed by the medical center's physician, on the night the anesthesia wore off, I experienced intermittent bowel movements that were not well-formed, resulting in loose stools.
Following this, the physician continued to administer antibiotics for two to three days.
During those days, my appetite was poor, and I experienced vomiting; my bowel movements were consistently two to three times a day with loose consistency.
After discharge, my leg recovery was quite good, but my digestive issues remained severe, requiring more than two bowel movements a day, and it took over a week for my stools to occasionally become formed and solid.
I would like to consult with your esteemed doctor regarding my treatment plan for duodenal ulcers and functional gastrointestinal disorders.
My approach involves taking commonly used medications for six weeks, followed by an additional three weeks of self-medication (during which I need to use crutches post-surgery), before undergoing an endoscopy to check if the old duodenal lesions have scarred.
Although the pain in the area just below the sternum has subsided, my stools continue to be loose and watery.
Therefore, I would like to ask: Is it incorrect to self-administer commonly used medications for nine weeks before returning for an endoscopy to minimize the discomfort associated with invasive procedures?

Songhua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/04/13

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, netizens: Bowel issues are generally not related to gastric ulcers, but they may be associated with medications (such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs).
It is recommended to first check your stool and take digestive medications.
Discontinue any potentially problematic medications and then consider further examination and treatment based on the situation.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2002/04/13

More Info

Self-medicating for digestive issues, especially after an injury, can indeed be a mistake. While it may seem convenient to rely on previously prescribed medications, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

First and foremost, the nature of your digestive issues following your injury is crucial. After a traumatic event, such as a motorcycle accident, your body undergoes significant stress, which can exacerbate pre-existing conditions. The use of anti-inflammatory medications, while helpful for pain management, can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal side effects, including irritation of the stomach lining or exacerbation of ulcers. This is particularly concerning if you have a history of gastrointestinal problems, such as peptic ulcers or functional gastrointestinal disorders.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing pain in the area just below your sternum, which could indicate a flare-up of a previous condition. Self-medicating with old prescriptions without consulting a healthcare professional can lead to inappropriate treatment, potential drug interactions, or masking of symptoms that require further evaluation. For instance, if your symptoms are due to a new injury or complication, continuing to take old medications may delay the diagnosis and treatment of a more serious issue.

Moreover, the digestive system is sensitive, especially after surgery. Post-operative patients often experience changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation, due to anesthesia, pain medications, and changes in diet. The fact that you are experiencing loose stools and difficulty forming solid bowel movements could be a sign of a functional gastrointestinal disorder, which may require a tailored treatment approach rather than a one-size-fits-all medication.

It is also important to consider the potential risks associated with prolonged use of certain medications. For example, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, especially if taken without food or in higher doses than recommended. If you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits, these could be side effects of the medications you are taking or signs of a more serious condition.

In light of these factors, it is highly advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before continuing with self-medication. A gastroenterologist can provide a thorough evaluation of your digestive health, recommend appropriate diagnostic tests such as an endoscopy, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and possibly new medications that are more suitable for your current condition.

In summary, while self-medicating may seem like a quick fix, it can lead to complications and may not address the underlying issues effectively. Seeking professional medical advice is essential to ensure that you receive the appropriate care for both your digestive issues and your recovery from the injury. It is always better to err on the side of caution, especially when it comes to your health.

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