AskDocDoc
/
/
/
Long-standing gastrointestinal symptoms and need for diagnosis
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 40M : 15S
background image
Click Here
background image
Digestive Health
Question #24328
156 days ago
331

Long-standing gastrointestinal symptoms and need for diagnosis

Client_b10dee

Medical Case Description: I have been suffering for more than ten years from chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, including: Recurrent diarrhea, sometimes severe Abdominal cramps and pain Presence of blood in the stool during some episodes A sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation after defecation These symptoms started many years ago and have appeared in intermittent flare-ups. Over the years: I used anti-amoebic treatments whenever symptoms appeared, which led to temporary improvement, but the symptoms would return after some time. At times, I used honey, and I noticed that the bleeding would stop. At other times, I assumed the problem was excess stomach acid or indigestion, so I used Gaviscon, which also seemed to stop the bleeding. Because of this, I lived with these symptoms for many years, assuming they were due to amoebiasis or acidity, without a definitive medical diagnosis. Recent Course of the Condition: About two weeks ago: I experienced diarrhea and abdominal cramps that lasted for several days. This was followed by blood in the stool. I took Flazol Plus, and my condition improved during treatment. However: Shortly after completing the medication, the symptoms returned again. Investigations: I underwent a stool examination and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) test. The results were negative. However, I am unsure about the accuracy of the tests because: There was no visible blood in the stool sample at the time of testing. My symptoms are intermittent rather than continuous. Reason for Consultation: I would like to: Identify the underlying cause of these long-standing symptoms. Determine whether this could be: Recurrent amoebiasis Schistosomiasis Colitis (ulcerative, inflammatory, irritable, or other types) Internal hemorrhoids Or another condition And to know which further investigations are most appropriate to reach a clear and definitive diagnosis.

How frequently do you experience these gastrointestinal symptoms?:

- Occasionally

Have you noticed any specific foods or activities that trigger your symptoms?:

- Not sure

Have you experienced any weight loss or changes in appetite?:

- No change
FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Hello

Your symptoms need proper evaluation — after 10+ years with recurrent diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in stool, this should not be treated empirically anymore.

Most likely causes to consider:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) — especially ulcerative colitis (very important to rule out) Chronic infective colitis (amoebiasis is possible, but repeated relapses despite treatment make it less likely as the sole cause) Schistosomiasis (if you live in or traveled to endemic areas) Internal hemorrhoids (can cause bleeding, but do NOT explain diarrhea and cramps) IBS alone is unlikely because IBS does not cause bleeding

🛑 Negative stool tests do not rule out these conditions, especially when symptoms are intermittent.

Investigations:

Colonoscopy with biopsies — this is the single most important test

Stool calprotectin (to detect intestinal inflammation) Repeat stool tests (×3 samples) for parasites, including Entamoeba and schistosoma ova

Blood tests: CBC, ESR/CRP, iron studies

Do not rely on temporary symptom relief from antibiotics, honey, or antacids — they can mask disease without treating the cause.

Next step: consult a gastroenterologist and request a colonoscopy.

That’s the only way to reach a clear diagnosis and prevent long-term complications.

You’re right to push for answers now — this has gone on long enough.

I trust this helps Thank you

1986 answered questions
57% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Hello dear See as per clinical history it seems ibs chances Iam suggesting some tests for confirmation of exact diagnosis and best treatment. Please share the result with gastroenterologist or laproscopic surgeon for better clarity Please donot take any medication without consulting the concerned physician Esr Cbc Serum b12 Serum b6 Stomach USG Serum RBS Hemogram Serum ferritin Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy if recommended by gastroenterologist Hopefully you recover soon Regards

3585 answered questions
70% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Given the chronicity and nature of your symptoms, it’s crucial to delve deeper into possible underlying causes like inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. The persistent blood in stool and abdominal pain, alongside the intermittent symptom presentation, point towards these conditions. It’s also possible that other disorders like irritable bowel syndrome might be present, though the presence of blood leans more toward IBD. Internal hemorrhoids or recurrent infections like schistosomiasis could contribute to your symptoms but are less likely primary causes given your treatment history and wider symptom profile. You’ve already tried approaches that might suggest these conditions, such as anti-acid and anti-amoebic treatments but without a lasting resolution. Further investigation is necessary to clarify the cause. A colonoscopy would be a vital next step since it offers direct visualization of the colon and can identify inflammation, ulcers, or structural issues and allow for biopsy if necessary. In addition, considering the differential diagnosis list, blood tests for inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and fecal calprotectin can help detect inflammation typical of IBD. Imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI of the abdomen might be warranted if structural or abscess complications are suspected. Considering the bleeding, a rectal examination could clarify if hemorrhoids contribute to your symptoms. Make an appointment with a gastroenterologist for specialized tests and to discuss these investigations. The recurrence shortly after ending treatments indicates the need for a more focused diagnostic approach, rather than intermittent symptomatic treatment. Addressing underlying inflammation or structural issues could offer more enduring resolution than anti-amoebic medication or antacids.

20946 answered questions
91% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.