Any Clues ??

  I am a 27 year old male. Occasionally, I suffer from severe abdominal cramping and wind up with diarreah (diarrhea). It never seems to last more than a day but has been happening for over 7 years now. My diet isn't the best in the world, but I just want to know if anyone could point me in the right direction as to what the possible problem is. Antacids seem to ease the pain after some time. Could it be an ulcer or something more severe. Any help would be appriciated.
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Dear mark,
I assume that your symptoms have not changed substantially during the last 7 years.  Given your age, the differntial diagnosis includes irritable bowel disease ( most likely explanation) and inflammatory bowel disease.  An ulcer would not explain your diarrhea.
My first suggestion is to change your diet.  You should increase the amount of fiber ( eat salads, whole grain breads), decrease the amount of fat, grease etc.  If symptoms persist after you are eating a better balanced diet, then you should see your physician for testing to exclude structural abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract.
This information is presented for educational purposes only. always ask specific questions to your personal physician.
HFHSM.D.-rf
8keywords: abdominal pain, diarrhe, irritable bowel disease
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