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What Do Intermittent Stomach Cramps Along With Constipation Or Diarrhea Indicate?

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Posted on Fri, 10 Nov 2017
Question: Starting as of about 10 years ago. Every once and a while I'll get a sudden onset of sever stomach cramps, in my lower abdomen. Sometimes constipated and sometimes diareaha (sp?) I get chills and what feels like fever. Sometimes it last 1 or 2 days.

my transaction reference is HCM296373
doctor
Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Need some details to guide you in a better way

Detailed Answer:
Hello

My name is Dr Muhammad Ali Rauf & i will look into your problem.

I have gone through your query and would try to help you in the best possible way. There could be a number of causes for your complaint. I can guide you better if you answer following questions please:

1. Does loose stringy appear ribbon like and occurs in the morning or any time of the day during the pain?
2. Does urge to pass stool increases after taking meal?
3. Are you on any medication?
4. does such symptoms appear in past as well? If yes then how did they relieve?
5. Is there history of incomplete emptying after you defecate?
6. Do you or anyone in the family has history of diabetes, hypertension or other illness?
7. any stress related event occurring in your life?

I will be looking forward for the answer to conclude the discussion in the best interest of yours.
Thank You
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (8 hours later)
No ribbon like stool at any time.
No urge after meal.
No medications at all.
Yes, the symptoms have appeared before. I usually rest, take tylenol and eat light and it passes.
I'd say that sometimes I don't feel as thoughI've completed after defecating.
I have no family history at all, I was adopted in 1956.
I'm stressed a lot of the time. I'm just an anxious person.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (16 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Most Probably Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thank you for writing back. I have gone through your answers. Most common cause for your symptoms include Irritable Bowel Syndrome(IBS) secondary to stress induced. IBS is mostly caused by stress & anxiety. There is absolutely no need to worry. Combine following general & medical advise and you will improve:

1. General:
> Stress is in everyone's life but if it overpowers you then it will start causing problem. So try to remain calm and stress free.
> Go out for a walk in the evening. Take a friend or family member and discuss your thought. It will reduce stress.
> If stress is severe then you can visit a psychologist for "Cognitive behavioral therapy" who will guide you relaxation techniques.

2. Dietary Advise:
> Take high fiber diet (peas, beans, broccoli, etc) including psyllium (ispaghul hask)
> Avoid:
* fatty food & caffeine products
* Spicy food.
* Fruits & salads for the time being.

3. Medical Advise:
> Loperamide 2 mg orally thrice a day
> If there is element of stress then i would suggest you to consult your doctor for anxiolytics.

Conclusion:
IBS is a condition that occurs due to multiple causes, most common include stress, anxiety, drug or hormone induced. So it will automatically improve as soon as you take care of cause. In your case stress and drugs could be the causative factor. If condition does not improve after taking this management then i would suggest you to visit a Gastroenterologist in your area. He will perform some tests to rule out any pathology.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help if not then don't forget to close the discussion and rate it.
Wishing you good health !!
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
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Answered by
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Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2013

Answered : 1312 Questions

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What Do Intermittent Stomach Cramps Along With Constipation Or Diarrhea Indicate?

Brief Answer: Need some details to guide you in a better way Detailed Answer: Hello My name is Dr Muhammad Ali Rauf & i will look into your problem. I have gone through your query and would try to help you in the best possible way. There could be a number of causes for your complaint. I can guide you better if you answer following questions please: 1. Does loose stringy appear ribbon like and occurs in the morning or any time of the day during the pain? 2. Does urge to pass stool increases after taking meal? 3. Are you on any medication? 4. does such symptoms appear in past as well? If yes then how did they relieve? 5. Is there history of incomplete emptying after you defecate? 6. Do you or anyone in the family has history of diabetes, hypertension or other illness? 7. any stress related event occurring in your life? I will be looking forward for the answer to conclude the discussion in the best interest of yours. Thank You