Hello,
many thanks if you read my other post.
basically in the last few weeks and months I have had a fwe things going on.
From the "bowels" point of view, I have lost a little weight which I am monitoring - not really changed over the last month to 6 weeks.
I have changed GP as I was getting nowhere and getting very frustrated.
I introduced a bit more fibre into my diet as my stools were nearly always soft. Not too much diarrhoea but about twice a week or so. I should say that it isn't alot of fibre, just that before I had next to none.
Various bouts os cramps, pain and tenderness to touch. Sometimes things go straight through me.
A few days ago I had a bout of diarrhoea which was floating with a little foamy around the edges. A few hours after I thought I needed to go again but all that came out was some clear mucous with some streaks of red blood on it. Went to the doctor who is running a stool test to check on any bugs or bacteria.
Now this morning (I always need to go first thing), I had a soft BM with the usuals undigested vegetable matter etc (that is normal for me) but there was also a black lump, about the size of a pea. I examined it at it was quite hard but when squeezed it crumbled apart like the "coffee grounds" you read about (this was all with tissue and gloves by the way).
Sometimes I have black flecks that look like black pepper but never had it in a lump like this.
I do have a gastro appointment coming in about 2.5 weeks but I am very worried.
any input that anyone can help with is much appreciated. Thank you
I know, the frustration of getting Drs to understand not only the physical side of IBS, but the mental side too, hopefully the results of your tests will put your mind at rest. I ended up going so often that I got piles, ended up with them being removed!!!! Not much fun!! I won't say don't worry, but I know exactly how you feel. I've given up, still have IBS, and as long as I can earmark toilets when I'm out, and all the embarrassment when your with friends so be it.Take care.
One of the best ways to add fibre each day is to steam some carrots and eat them. This can help in general.
Black items in your stools could be from diverticulitis. Have that investigated.
A food diary is the best way to find out of there are individual items that bother you. Watching your bowel issues and relating them to what you ate approximately 24 hours ago will often identify things you would not guess to be an issue.
For me, I found out a snack I was having caused trouble because something in the dip was setting me off. Because the snack was full of veggies I never would have suspected it if not for the food diary.
Write down everything you eat and the time of day. Even gum, candy, whatever. WHen you drink your water - all of it. Then write down your BMs and any associated issues. Sooner or later, a pattern starts to emerge, and often some helpful results.
Mucus and blood after bouts of diarrhea are not entirely uncommon. In and of themselves, these symptoms shouldn't cause major concern. The Dr. is the one who can test and advise - no point winding yourself up over nothing.
Remember that stress can be as ill advised as fried food. Try to remain calm and take charge by doing that food diary.
Praying for you today, and praying that all is well at your appointment, and it's just minor and will be able to take something(Herbal, God Willing) to get rid of what ever it is. Jay