Persistant Stomach Infection w/Neuropathy

[nonplussed]

6 mos with autonomic neuropathy which arose after a case of (suspect bad milk) food poisoning.  Pale stool with blood initially which stopped after the first days only to be replaced with extreme belching and then constipation. When I pass stool it fizzes.  I noticed my heart racing and not responding to calming measures.  Whole body has diminished nerve sensation from my scalp to my feet. It feels like someone has given me a weak general anesthetic and only partial sensation results.  It varies intensity so damage is likely not permanent.  I visited ER when palpitations were bad and my BP was 167/90.  They did an EKG and X-ray and my heart was fine and that it was palpitations.  Drew blood - elevated bilirubin count.  I have higher than norm bilirubin since birth though.  I think the ER missed the bacteria because I was being blindly treated with antibiotics (Cipro & metrnzdle) at the time for this persistant stomach infection.  The treatment, which had eliminated most symptoms, was for 14 days and the main benefit was normal bowel movements. 20 blisters (like bug bites) have appeared on my feet and wrists since the neuropathy started.

I have appt with a gastroenterologist.  My stool has bloody mucus in it for 3 weeks now - identical to its appearance 6 mos ago.  I have been self-treating it with pepto-bismol 1500mg daily (3 weeks) but the bismuth subsalicyate only controls infection, not eliminates it, & now my liver seems to be acting up in the past two days.  I notice my eye whites are getting more yellow. I have stopped the Pepto.  

Is there any known stomach bacteria that produces these symptoms? Perhaps a campylobacter variant?  Is it possible antibiotic dosed cows are creating new antibiotic resistant bacteria?  Could bacterial waste products produce such neuropathy?  Any aid in diagnosis/identification?  Anything specific I should ask of a specialist?

Non-smoker, non-drinker 40 yr old male. Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the GI referral.  Obtaining an upper endoscopy can evaluate for various causes of the symptoms, including an ulcer or inflammation.  Blood tests to look for H  Pylori can be done as well, as this bacteria is associated with stomach discomfort.

Regarding the pale stools, you should evaluate for any biliary duct blockage, starting with an ultrasound and liver function tests.  

Persistent stool symptoms should necessitate a colonoscopy to exclude inflammatory bowel disease and colitis.

These options can be discussed with your GI physician.

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.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd

[Banned1]

I would be very interested in Dr. Pho's opinion as to why the Cipro & Metronidazole [Flagyl]) "eliminated most symptoms".  Myself and many others have obtained symptom relief only to have our health regress a week or so after the course of antibiotics was completed.

IS THERE any known stomach bacteria that produces these symptoms?

Thanks for your time.  Good luck and Godspeed,  nonplussed!