Concerned Chronic Diarrhea

I am 42 and have been diagnosed with IBS for a number of years - the symptoms being excessive wind, constipation, mucus and lower left abdominal pain.  My big concern started in July with diarrhea, going up to 5 times a day, loss of appetite, nausea and wind.  Gradually over the last few weeks all these symptoms apart from the diarrhea and occasional wind have ceased. I have seen a gastroenterologist who checked for anemia (neg) blood count (neg) he also did a rectal and protoscope exam (neg) he thinks my symptoms are suggestive of IBS, however, he offered me a colonoscopy to give me peace of mind which is scheduled for the end of September.

My bowel pattern is now as regular as clockwork - I go in the morning as soon as I wake up followed by another after about 10-15 minutes. What worries me and what I would like you to answer while I'm waiting for my colonoscopy is. Why are my bowel motions still loose, sometimes my 1st one is normal followed by a complete loose one and why am I still getting wind pains which are just under my left rib (these are intermittent). I never suffered from this before my orginal episode of gastroenteritis, I only ever had intermittent constipation. There appears to be no blood and I feel quite well in myself

I know the colonoscopy will rule out any serious disorder but I am due to go on holiday for the next couple of weeks and the worrying that it is something serious is overtaking my life.

Thank you

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Erin, the GI PA has kindly answered your question in her comments below and I agree with her assessment.

If the colonoscopy is negative, I would also consider a CT scan to further evaluate the left lower quadrant pain.  

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.

[GI.PA]

It sounds as if you had an acute GI illness in July.  Many times even after the infection has cleared, you can be left with a increase in the irritability of the colon (particularly if you are prone to IBS).  Your bowels are prone to spasm which could also explain the "wind" pain under your ribs.  

I agree that colonoscopy is clearly indicated to assure that there is nothing more sinister going on (colon cancer, inflammation).  However, I would not be suprised if this turns out just fine.

Initiation of a "drying" fiber (such as fibercon pills 2 per day) may be helpful in firming things up a bit.  You doctor may consider anti-spasmotics to help with the intermitant pains.

GI.PA