Have you been tested for intestinal parasites? It's often overlooked in the US, but can be a problem for those who are symptomatic. You must have very specific testing from a reliable lab - often more than once to detect them. I have just found out I have Dientameba fragilis - an intestinal parasite. I have been through a year of hell without proper diagnosis. I encourage all who have ongoing gastro problems to be aware of this. This site has a lot of info about these critters: http://www.badbugs.org/
Crohn's disease should be able to be diagnosed via a colonoscopy. If there is doubt regarding the inflammation in the colon, you may want to seek a second opinion.
Another consideration would be a malabsorption syndrome - either fat or carbohydrate malabsorption. Celiac disease can also be considered. Further tests to evaluate this would include a fecal fat test and serum antibodies for celiac disease.
If all the tests are negative, then irritable bowel may be considered. Typically characteristic would be the alternating hard and soft stools that you are experiencing. If this is the case, you may want to optimize treatment for this in conjunction with your gastroenterologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
What you're describing sounds a lot like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It does not sound like you have Crohns Disease. If your upper GI series was negative, I'd be willing to bet you suffer from IBS and not Crohns, which is also known as IBD.
IBS is often accompanied by loose watery stools with mucous present. There is NO bleeding noted with IBS. Blood in the stools usually indicates the presence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or other more serious complications. It may also be as benign as hemmorhoids.
Hope all works out for you and you feel well soon.
JCI