Symptoms

A few days ago I had a bout of what I felt was food poisoning.  I felt very bloated in the stomach and proceeded to vomit later that evening. I ran a low fever the next day and felt sick but the following day I felt much better. The past few days I have experienced extreme gas & have felt bloated. Today I experienced soft but light colored stools.  Is it possible that this is a temporary illnes or do the symptoms suggest something more serious? I did have three successive nights of heavy drinking prior to my ailment. Thank you

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Viral or bacterial gastroenteritis can lead to the symptoms you are describing.

I would consider sending the stool off for analysis and culture, including bacteria, ova and parasites.

The nausea and bloating can be initially evaluated with an upper GI series or upper endoscopy - this can look for the major upper GI disorders - such as an ulcer or inflammation of the upper digestive tract.  

An ultrasound to look at the liver and gallbladder can be considered if the initial tests return negative.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b

[NickyIsHere123]

From one Nick to another... I think your problem might be a beer attack. These generally come on after a night of steady guzzling. Worst case scenerio, it may be your gallbladder. I actually had a bad bout like yourself and was very confused on the matter. I found out that my gallbladder had malfunctioned..pity. These things do happen though. I was referred to surgeons on end and have yet had it removed. See out your options wisely and good luck!

[poopsi]

If you have that kind of pain and symptoms after a three day binge and it doesn't go away. Have them check your pancreatic enzymes. Lipase/Amylase. It took so long for them to diagnose my pancreatitis that now it is chronic and extemely painful.
The pain is usually in the middle or upper left side of the belly. Causes smelly and loose clay colored stools. This is nothing to mess around with so if it gets worse or doesn't go away hit the ER.