Percocet stool bleeding

35F, nulligravida, 10 years post sub total hysto for dysmenorrhea (bled for six months straight & hormonal BC didn't touch it, didn't want kids) so I still have my ovaries. Mother has psoriatic arthritis mutilans (with associated bowel inflammation) and history of non-PCOS, non-cancerous ovarian growths.
The past 18 months, I've had cyclical severe constipation and weird raspberry-jam like stool for 2 or 3 days every 28 days. I get awful left quadrant pain to the point of being unable to sleep for a night or even two and I often can't work in the middle of the bouts. It's extremely painful, not respondent to taking stool softeners and upping my fibre a few days before it's going to happen, and it's extremely consistent. In the last six months I can also predict it happening because I break out in a rash on my eyelids and trunk, as well as dry splitting skin on my fingertips, a day or two beforehand.
I thought it might be endometriosis or psoriasis. My doctor ordered bloodtests and ultrasounds. My CRP was 14 but rheumatoid factor was negative, and ultrasound showed no fluid in abdomen, and she has told me that rules out IBS and endometrosis, and while I 'might have arthritis' the issue is primarily my weight and fibre intake.
I've been blowing through Metamucil for the last year with only worsening bowel symptoms. I can set a calender to how predictable they are, and I noticed how regular they are because my period (when I had it) was a 28 day cycle (12 of which I would bleed during). I also know from my family members who have psoriasis that they have never tested positive for rheumatoid factor and usually have a CRP of 12-16.
Am I mistaken in thinking I need a second opinion? Is it worth asking my doctor for my labs and ultrasound have not justified investigating more thoroughly for psoriasis? Am I wrong in thinking I need a rheumatologist referral?

Wont add too much gnitty gritty but ever since my partial seizure and migraine journey after my TBIs ive noticed no matter what anti epileptic my neuros use, they destroy my stomach. Time of day, low dose, high dose, fiber pills, take with food, no alcohol or caffeine in diet, keto diet, non keto diet. Its been a lot of trial and error and so long as I take any anti epileptic- my stools change and frequent bathroom trips and an angry gut with stomach pain.
Ive been on topo for give or take 4 months now. Same as when I was on keppra, gabapentin, etc. Not a happy gut. It was already borderline intolerable especially getting back to work full time, until I got pneumonia and I got slammed with antibiotics and a steroid. Now my gut is completely whiped out and I got a GI bleed.
Has anyone else encountered GI problems with their meds especially topamax? When I was on gaba it seemed to dissipate over time, but with topamax no matter what we have tried so far it really seems to upset my stomach and i get a lot of stomach pain. My neuro is pretty dismissive about it but I am about ready to pull the plug and wean off. i have a consult with him in 2 days but did let him know of the GI issues and also it gives me insanely bad double vision on top of my visual snow so he said he is willing to taper.
If you guys know any alternatives that are easier on the stomach / organs let me know please. Seems tough to fi d decent seizure meds that dont destroy you from the inside out in the process with side effects?
Thanks

I just had a total laparoscopic hysterectomy last Tuesday. They took my uterus, tubes and cervix.
18f, had a previous laparoscopy for endometriosis about 2 years ago.
I'm still taking everything for pain they gave me, but I've read that normally people can drop opiates only a few days after?
I also had to stay in the hospital a day longer than we planned, it was supposed to be outpatient. I had to stay until afternoon the next day, despite being the first surgery of the day.
I also haven't had a bowel movement yet, despite taking stool softeners, Miralax and a gentle laxative. I just took a less gentle laxative, hopefully that doesn't cause too much cramping.
I stopped bleeding the day I got home, which is amazing to me! If I heal right I will never need to worry about it again!!
I've wanted this surgery for 4 years, I'm so happy I got it!
Are my bowel movements really concerning? I can't feel anything, even when I try to make a bowel movement I don't feel anything happening. I also had large bowel adhesions, notes said large bowel adhesions to left pelvic brim and left pelvic sidewall. Does this mean my bowel was stuck to the side of my pelvis?
Thank you so much!!

I have my first colonoscopy on Wednesday (31F) and am super anxious both about the procedure (I have never been sedated) and the results.
I am specifically worried an IBD diagnosis as I've had a number of concerning symptoms post pregnancy including bleeding, mucus, diarrhea, and a questionable skin tag. My blood and stool work all came back normal but since symptoms have not resolved doctors advised to continue with the colonoscopy.
Would love any words of advice or positive stories!! I have been so stressed about this and cannot wait for it to be over.

Hi. I’m 28f. My medications, vitamins, and supplements are: Iron and vitamin C, Claritin, docusate sodium (which may change soon once I ask my doctor about that), albuterol neb solution. I have a whole host of diagnoses. The relevant ones that I can think of: Iron Deficiency Anemia, low blood pressure, obesity, GERD, a hiatal hernia, past damage to the lining of the stomach, internal and external hemorrhoids (the external ones often bleed), suspected heavy menstrual bleeding with many tiny blood clots in it (I haven’t actually gone to a doctor about that yet, that’s just what I think I’m seeing) and an unknown intestinal issue causing constant constipation or diarrhea (doc has confirmed something is going on re: the stool inside me, we just don’t know what it is yet).
I am also a vegetarian. Have been vegetarian for 14 years, if that matters.
What I want to know is: When should I be going to urgent care or the ER or my primary care for anemia symptoms? Especially on Fridays or Saturdays when it’ll be a few days until my primary care opens again on Monday. My symptoms have been heavier lately and I take longer lately, on average, to recover from any blood loss (even just the tiniest opening in the skin from having dry skin can sometimes have me fatigued and out of breath that day).

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/a0fr54pfwoth7j4g4l1iu/AGR5GI3B1oI_7QlX2C2euIg?rlkey=oh4e5qohid1ay4267atr8jusn&dl=0
Above is a link to the videos of my cat!
1+ year old male cat, neutered, 10.6 lbs
Formerly community/outdoor cat, trying to convert him into indoors for the last 1.5mo and it’s been extremely challenging. He has diarrhea and worms in his stool that we’ve been trying to treat. He’s also been crying non stop from 3am-7am every single day.
Diarrhea
He’s been having diarrhea and we are unsure how long he’s had this for. We’ve only noticed since he’s been indoors. He has his own room due to have giardia (unsure of correct spelling) worms in his stool, which now have black specks. Vet is not concerned about black specks in stool, although he did say it can be the worms eating at his intestines?? So how is that not concerning?
Initially they were white specks. He was on metronidazole liquid for 2 weeks but he couldn’t complete it because he kept spitting it all out, it’s too thick. He completed a powered medicine that started with a “P,” can’t recall it. Vet switched him to metronidazole pills. He’s been getting this consistently for the past weekend. Vet wants me to send in another stool sample to send off to a lab that tests it with more stuff
We have him in another room because of the worms infestation and he doesn’t know how to use the litter box yet. He rolls in it. And we don’t want him sharing litters with our other cats until he’s cleared. He does come out to play and hang with the cats and family. He’s back in the room during bedtime/nap time.
Sleep
About 2 months ago, he was seen with bleeding from his neck. To him to the ER, vet there said it’s a cat bite abscess. Drained, cleansed, antibiotic injection given, sent me home with liquid gabapentin. I was instructed to give 0.5mL as needed for pain. He didn’t really need it though, he did well.
Cries, whining, scratching at door continues daily and nightly. Primary vet who treats him for worms, said to give the liquid gabapentin to finish the bottle and then transition to the pills. Bottle only had about 3mL left. He said to give 2mL
So this last Friday night, I gave him 2mL at 1130pm, that’s our bedtime. He slept very well! Up to 7 hours. Saturday night, gave him 2mL at bedtime. Slept 5 hours, was up crying non stop. Gave him 1mL which was the last drop. It was ineffective. Sunday night (yesterday), started the gabapentin pills. Instructions are to give 100mg at bedtime.
I gave him 100mg. He’s up at 4am crying non stop. Gave him 200mg. He’s still up crying non stop. 7am and he just won’t stop. Let him out to play and he’s completely unresponsive to the med, still cries and wants to play with the cats but he’s pissing them off. I haven’t slept since last night and I work long overnight shifts. So at 11am/12pm I gave him 100mg
Now I’m extremely concerned that I gave him too much. He’s sleeping right now. He was able to come out of his box and lay on me or play a bit with his doll but then lays down to rest.
The vet called me early in the morning and said there’s nothing he can do for my cat to get rest, that there’s no sleeping meds for cats. He said outdoor cats are nocturnal.
Is my cat breathing okay? I don’t even want to give the gabapentin anymore. I expressed concerns for long term side effects and the vet said there aren’t really any but to continue giving the 100mg nightly and then he can wean him off of it.

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/a0fr54pfwoth7j4g4l1iu/AGR5GI3B1oI_7QlX2C2euIg?rlkey=oh4e5qohid1ay4267atr8jusn&dl=0
Above is a link to the videos of my cat!
1+ year old male cat, neutered, 10.6 lbs
Formerly community/outdoor cat, trying to convert him into indoors for the last 1.5mo and it’s been extremely challenging. He has diarrhea and worms in his stool that we’ve been trying to treat. He’s also been crying non stop from 3am-7am every single day.
Diarrhea
He’s been having diarrhea and we are unsure how long he’s had this for. We’ve only noticed since he’s been indoors. He has his own room due to have giardia (unsure of correct spelling) worms in his stool, which now have black specks. Vet is not concerned about black specks in stool, although he did say it can be the worms eating at his intestines?? So how is that not concerning?
Initially they were white specks. He was on metronidazole liquid for 2 weeks but he couldn’t complete it because he kept spitting it all out, it’s too thick. He completed a powered medicine that started with a “P,” can’t recall it. Vet switched him to metronidazole pills. He’s been getting this consistently for the past weekend. Vet wants me to send in another stool sample to send off to a lab that tests it with more stuff
We have him in another room because of the worms infestation and he doesn’t know how to use the litter box yet. He rolls in it. And we don’t want him sharing litters with our other cats until he’s cleared. He does come out to play and hang with the cats and family. He’s back in the room during bedtime/nap time.
Sleep
About 2 months ago, he was seen with bleeding from his neck. To him to the ER, vet there said it’s a cat bite abscess. Drained, cleansed, antibiotic injection given, sent me home with liquid gabapentin. I was instructed to give 0.5mL as needed for pain. He didn’t really need it though, he did well.
Cries, whining, scratching at door continues daily and nightly. Primary vet who treats him for worms, said to give the liquid gabapentin to finish the bottle and then transition to the pills. Bottle only had about 3mL left. He said to give 2mL
So this last Friday night, I gave him 2mL at 1130pm, that’s our bedtime. He slept very well! Up to 7 hours. Saturday night, gave him 2mL at bedtime. Slept 5 hours, was up crying non stop. Gave him 1mL which was the last drop. It was ineffective. Sunday night (yesterday), started the gabapentin pills. Instructions are to give 100mg at bedtime.
I gave him 100mg. He’s up at 4am crying non stop. Gave him 200mg. He’s still up crying non stop. 7am and he just won’t stop. Let him out to play and he’s completely unresponsive to the med, still cries and wants to play with the cats but he’s pissing them off. I haven’t slept since last night and I work long overnight shifts. So at 11am/12pm I gave him 100mg
Now I’m extremely concerned that I gave him too much. He’s sleeping right now. He was able to come out of his box and lay on me or play a bit with his doll but then lays down to rest.
The vet called me early in the morning and said there’s nothing he can do for my cat to get rest, that there’s no sleeping meds for cats. He said outdoor cats are nocturnal.
Is my cat breathing okay? I don’t even want to give the gabapentin anymore. I expressed concerns for long term side effects and the vet said there aren’t really any but to continue giving the 100mg nightly and then he can wean him off of it.

Several people have approached me that they might have endometriosis. Lifelong warrior so thought I would share my tips and tricks I put together for my friends and family to share with you :) Hope this helps someone!
ENDOMETRIOSIS SURGERY FACTS

• EXCISION SURGERY! I cannot stress this one enough. If you have an ablation, it will grow back and likely quick (but consult with your doctors on your case 100%). Excision is when they cut it out vs. it gets burned off. You will have a better success rate and slow rate of growth if they excise. Not all cases can be depending on location so again, please talk with your doctor about your situation. This is not the same for everyone.
• If your doctor cannot do excision surgery. Skip and move on to the next! Trust me, well worth the time to research and find the right doctor. You will thank me later for this one too haha.
• Finding a doctor is stuff. Also tough to find resources. If you cannot find an Endometriosis specialist in your area who does excision, you may need to look out of state, but one tip is exploring gynecological oncologists. Some will take benign cases, but not all so do your research. But it’s a good avenue for help in your area or you want insurance coverage.
• Nanny’s Nook is a good resource for online information regarding endometriosis: https://nancysnookendo.com/
• Dr Seckin’s book called The Doctor Will See You Now is also worth the read (https://www.amazon.com/Doctor-Will-See-You-Endometriosis/dp/1681621126)
• Definitely look into Egg Freezing before doing any permanent surgeries. The ovaries are more intact when there is a uterus in place, so I recommend immediately following any excisions with Egg Freezing if you can and if it’s part of your plans. I found my AMH levels low (1.2) but still retrieved 25 eggs, so never be discouraged if this is your future planning path.
• My Symptoms: I experience bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting as the main culprits. I have irregular periods in regards to the number of days and if it comes or not (even with an IUD). Pelvic pain is probably the worst of all since it accompanies these symptoms and is present a majority of the time. Others may have different symptoms, and there’s many others I didn’t list but wanted to paint the picture of some I’ve experienced.

ENDOMETRIOSIS LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY (WHAT TO EXPECT)
PRE-SURGERY

• List of questions to ask your doctor
• Insurance Information and ID
• Necessary forms or paperwork the doctor requires
• Make sure any medical records are sent that would be relevant

POST-OP PREP

• Eat smaller meals and simple foods days beforehand. If bowel prep is necessary, they also recommend taking a laxative in the days leading up to help prep.
• Pack a bag! Not every surgery is an overnight stay but even if you have a day-of surgery, back an overnight bag. Here’s the essentials:
  • Phone/Headphones/iPad/Kindle/Books
  • Device Chargers
  • Medications that you currently take
  • Glasses (do not wear contacts day of)
  • An extra pair of underwear
  • Sanitary Pads or Always Discreet
  • Comfy pants with light elastic band around the waist
  • Non wired bra
  • Slip on shoes (this is clutch! Recommend slides -https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BL7LJKZW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1).
  • Layers - Sweatshirt, Long Sleeved Shirt etc. - Hospitals are cold!
  • Toothbrush and tooth paste
  • Hairbrush
  • Face wipes, wash cloth, small towel and bar of soap.

SPACE PREP

1. Make sure your bed or couch is prepped. I stayed on the first level for the first 2ish days before feeling well enough to stay upstairs.
2. I used a pregnancy pillow on the bed to help me stay on my back while sleeping and help you feel cozy.
3. Stock the house with foods that will be light for your stomach. Think soups and casseroles! Saltine crackers, broths, rices etc..
4. If you have a raised bed, get a step stool to assist. It’s best to sit on the side of the bed and slowly lay your upper body down while bringing your knees up and over to your back. You will need to use arm strength the first couple of days to get you up and over since you can’t use the abdomen.
5. Water and Beverages stocked at all times. I have a reusable water bottle and avoid carbonated beverages for the time being. They fill you with gas for the procedure so it may make those symptoms worse.
6. Netflix, Kindle, Puzzles, Craft Projects…visits with friends. Whatever makes the time pass, set it up ahead of time so it’s handy.
7. Items to Keep on Hand: Baby Wipes, heating pads, pads/diapers, candles, essential oils, things that smell good haha

BOWEL PREP
This is dependent on the type of surgery you are having, but its good to have Gatorade, Magnesium Citrate (liquid), laxatives and enemas on hand just in case you need these.
ON SURGERY DAY
It’s important to follow the instructions on what to stop taking and/or eating/drinking prior to the surgery. Wear comfy clothes (wide elastic waistband) and slides with cozy socks. Double check your to go bag and breath.
AT THE HOSPITAL

1. Do your check-ins and keep your people with you as long as you want.
2. Make sure to read all the consent forms and ask any questions upfront. Make any advance directives clear.
3. Just try to remain calm as there’s a lot of down time while they do intake. It is about 2 hours of prep before they bring you in for the surgery itself.
4. They will ask you the same questions over and over again, that’s normal and trust me, you want to confirm it’s all being done properly.
5. If you need something for anxiety, they will be sure to give you something if you ask :)
6. You will be wearing a gown, socks, funky underwear and a cool hair net haha wear the gown backward so you keep warm and keep the butt covered.
7. Vitals will happen and the anesthesiologist will come and speak with you to make sure they prep the right meds beforehand. Bring up any concerns here with them!
8. You may be wheeled or walked into surgery. I’ve only ever walked in and laid on the table myself.
9. They will then put the IV in your arm and sometimes will put on a mask, they will then ask you to count backwards and before you know it, you will be awake again!

RECOVERY

• You will wake-up and feel groggy. Totally normal and you will be in a different room. They will likely say a lot really quick about your surgery. Before leaving ask for them to walk through it or see if you can speak with the doctor again when clear headed. RECOMMENDED!
• Your throat will be sore, that’s normal from the tube.
• Just relax and sleep it off if you want, the goal is to be relaxed and pee once before leaving.
• Before you go, eat and drink and pass smoke urine. They’ll provide you with the meds and you’ll be good to go.
• Make sure someone brings you home after :)
• Make sure you have a bag for vomit in the car.
• Bring a small pillow that can be strapped between the car belt and you for maximum comfort on the trip home.
• Pain Med Management: This one is important. I messed up night one and didn’t take it soon enough and was in too much pain so make sure you stick to the schedule the doctors give you to ensure you are comfortable.
• Keep Walking: It seems unnatural to have a surgery then walk, but the sooner you get up and keep moving around the house, the better. Just avoid heavy lifting and immense bending like movements. Stairs are also ok but also consult with your doctor!
• Gas Build Up: I did feel pain in my shoulders from the gas. Just keep moving! It will help get that out of the system but this pain is normal.
• Relax and let people take care of you! Don’t be too quick to recover.
• Keep an eye out for fever, increased vaginal bleeding, or feeling terrible.
• Keep all post op appointments and follow all post op instructions!

ENDOMETRIOSIS MAINTENANCE
Here’s the tips and tricks I found helpful for maintaining my pain and symptoms (GI and back pain related):

1. Pelvic Floor Therapy: This is important for keeping the muscles in your pelvis healthy and strong to maintain your structure and also help manage pain. Consult with your doctor on whether this is right for you.
2. Physical Therapy: I do PT for my back and pelvic floor since it’s all related. We focus on Myofascial Release Therapy to help break up the adhesions and give me more mobility. This helps with temporary pain relief (reduction in number), but that is always welcome :)
3. Acupuncture: I swear by Acupuncture. I don’t know what it does or why, but it works. It’s not a cure by any means, but it's great for relaxation, fertility, digestion, endometriosis, sleep, etc.. I can go on, but it’s not covered by insurance plans all the time so you will need to check and see what you’re able to take on.
4. Diet/Exercise:
   1. Eating high protein, lower fat/carbs (not none just low) helps your body, but overall learn your trigger foods! This will go a long way.
   2. Ginger, turmeric and fennel all help with bloating. I like to drink them in tea form when I’m feeling particularly hard stomached as it’s a good natural way to decrease the bloat. Peppermint also works for some, for me it irritates my GERD.
   3. Chamomile for relaxation
   4. Walking and movement are important. I cannot do anything high impact due to my sacroiliitis diagnosis, so I stick with light yoga and walking.
5. Alcohol/Other Substances: Don’t do it. Don’t touch it. You’ll thank me later on this point.
6. Sleep: Insomnia is a very real thing. I think I went 2 or 3 days at its worst one time and I cannot say enough how important trying to keep the same sleep schedule will benefit you. Waking and sleeping around the same time each day will still feel exhausting but at least you know your body is getting the most sleep it can get.
7. Medications/Supplements:
   1. Ibprofuern: This does NOT work for me. I have GERD and ulcers so I cannot take NSAIDs, but with that in mind, NSAIDs are supposedly the best pain medication over the counter to help you manage it.
   2. Pain Killers: These are AS NEEDED. I try to refrain and leave these for the TRULY bad days which I try to spread out. Not even worth it sometimes, because I don’t like how I feel and sometimes vomit after taking them. But they do help the pain!
   3. IUD/Orilissa: An IUD will NOT do anything. If you are diagnosed, ask your doctor about Orilissa or similar medicines instead of birth control methods. This will not stop the growth, just suppress it. There are side effects and it is only a short term solution.
   4. Linzess: This worked well for me for constipation symptoms when they got severe. Definitely recommend bringing this to your doctor if you’re truly suffering and they have not yet mentioned. I also resorted after trying magnesium citrate
   5. CBD Lotions/Salves: For my pelvis, I use Healing Rose CBD Salve in Orange and Lavender (https://www.thehealingroseco.com/product/orange-lavender-with-chamomile-herbal-salve-300mg-cbd/). For my back, I use a medical grade CBD lotion with menthol (https://cbdclinic.co/clinical-strength-series/). I also use a CBD massage oil from Healing Rose of the same scent when doing myofascial release at home. I also use Somedays Cramp Cream (https://somedays.com/products/period-cramp-cream?variant=42062153842853).
8. Heating Pads and Ice Pack: I have several varieties of heating pads. A cordless travel heating pad (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FPTJL4G?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details), a plug-in heating pad (lhttps://www.hsn.com/products/pure-enrichment-purerelief-xxl-heating-pad-with-9-cord/22188460) and stick on patches (https://www.thermacare.com/ - I use the back patches but reverse them to the front for better coverage). For hot flashes and night sweats (also if you need to relax while anxious) place an ice pack over your chest to help cool or calm down.
9. Self-Care: No joke, massages, facials, epsom salt baths, sound baths, reiki….anything that you find relaxing. Do it. Try it! They also make CBD bath bombs Ive been wanting to check out.
10. TENs Machine: I really want one, don’t have one, but people swear by them (the heating pad linked to MyObi has a TENs version - https://myobistore.com/en-us/collections/my-obi-belts/products/apollo-2-0).
11. Pregnancy Pillow: This one sounds so lame, but I bought a pregnancy pillow for my first endometriosis surgery since I’m a side sleeper to help keep me on my back during recovery. It changed by life! It helps my anxiety and makes me comfortable while sleeping. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08YYVRXLM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)..
12. Heated Blankets/Cozy Blankets: Make yourself feel better with a cozy blanket. Do it, I dare you!
13. Endo To-Go Bag: Includes heating pads (travel, plug-in and patches), medications, balms/salves, essential oils and pads/protection items, change of clothes, wet wipes.
14. Sex Life: I’m single, I don’t have a partner to worry about communicating this issue with at this point, but go slow and communicate given eventually this will have to be a conversation. What I have learned is that if you do have sex and feel pain. Immediately stop! If you associate sex with pain mentally in that moment, it may cause fear in doing so down the line so it’s best to stop the moment you feel any pain occur.
15. Work Life: I work a demanding job so it was not working with the appointments and care I needed to manage pain. Always get FMLA from your doctor for intermittent leave based on your company's policies. This protects you from flare-ups and appointments. Short Term Disability is based on your situation with work so talk with them about any leave of absence for surgery and recovery and ensure the medical providers fill out the paperwork appropriately.
16. Friends/Family: This one is the worst. I have to cancel and make plans all the time based on how I feel. I like to line up a bunch of plans for three months out and do my best to make them happen at the beginning of the month when I know I’m most likely to feel good. I just say I’ll make things up to them when I get better and those who have stuck around have been truly amazing friends, but don’t be upset that some might be over the day in and out of what you’re going through. It’s hard for you and sometimes others and it’s just a part of the relationships we’re meant to experience in life. Most people (unless they have endometriosis) don’t understand it so it can feel isolating, but there’s others out there who know what you’re going through and are willing to chat. Just gotta find them and reach out on social media, online etc..
17. Journaling Symptoms: Guilty of not being the best at this always, but it's good to track your symptoms to see how they work and operate. It helps not only you plan for it, but also your doctors in how best to handle your care. Take photos of things that make sense to show your doctors! Discharge, bowels etc..can sometimes help diagnose or judge with the images.
18. Next to Bed Kit: Make sure your nightstand is stocked with the essentials for your bad days. Makes it easier to access the items you need when you just can’t get up and get it.
19. Squatty Potty: Another thing that is majorly life changing on constipation days! Get one or you can make your own :) Take a stack of books and stack them at equal heights on each side and put your feet up. The trick is making sure you’re in a squat with your knees high to your ears.
20. Clothing: Dressing for this is key but you still want to look cute! Joggers with a stretchy waist are my go to pants, but wide leg trousers with a stretchy waist help with ease of removal but also comfort and brings some style to the look.
21. Pads: I wear Always Discreet vs. pads. I find when you need to wear them full time for incontinence it just makes it more comfortable. They have different cuts and styles so definitely check them out!

Several people have approached me that they might have endometriosis. Lifelong warrior so thought I would share my tips and tricks I put together for my friends and family to share with you :) Hope this helps someone!
ENDOMETRIOSIS SURGERY FACTS

• EXCISION SURGERY! I cannot stress this one enough. If you have an ablation, it will grow back and likely quick (but consult with your doctors on your case 100%). Excision is when they cut it out vs. it gets burned off. You will have a better success rate and slow rate of growth if they excise. Not all cases can be depending on location so again, please talk with your doctor about your situation. This is not the same for everyone.
• If your doctor cannot do excision surgery. Skip and move on to the next! Trust me, well worth the time to research and find the right doctor. You will thank me later for this one too haha.
• Finding a doctor is stuff. Also tough to find resources. If you cannot find an Endometriosis specialist in your area who does excision, you may need to look out of state, but one tip is exploring gynecological oncologists. Some will take benign cases, but not all so do your research. But it’s a good avenue for help in your area or you want insurance coverage.
• Nanny’s Nook is a good resource for online information regarding endometriosis: https://nancysnookendo.com/
• Dr Seckin’s book called The Doctor Will See You Now is also worth the read (https://www.amazon.com/Doctor-Will-See-You-Endometriosis/dp/1681621126)
• Definitely look into Egg Freezing before doing any permanent surgeries. The ovaries are more intact when there is a uterus in place, so I recommend immediately following any excisions with Egg Freezing if you can and if it’s part of your plans. I found my AMH levels low (1.2) but still retrieved 25 eggs, so never be discouraged if this is your future planning path.
• My Symptoms: I experience bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting as the main culprits. I have irregular periods in regards to the number of days and if it comes or not (even with an IUD). Pelvic pain is probably the worst of all since it accompanies these symptoms and is present a majority of the time. Others may have different symptoms, and there’s many others I didn’t list but wanted to paint the picture of some I’ve experienced.

ENDOMETRIOSIS LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY (WHAT TO EXPECT)
PRE-SURGERY

• List of questions to ask your doctor
• Insurance Information and ID
• Necessary forms or paperwork the doctor requires
• Make sure any medical records are sent that would be relevant

POST-OP PREP

• Eat smaller meals and simple foods days beforehand. If bowel prep is necessary, they also recommend taking a laxative in the days leading up to help prep.
• Pack a bag! Not every surgery is an overnight stay but even if you have a day-of surgery, back an overnight bag. Here’s the essentials:
  • Phone/Headphones/iPad/Kindle/Books
  • Device Chargers
  • Medications that you currently take
  • Glasses (do not wear contacts day of)
  • An extra pair of underwear
  • Sanitary Pads or Always Discreet
  • Comfy pants with light elastic band around the waist
  • Non wired bra
  • Slip on shoes (this is clutch! Recommend slides -https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BL7LJKZW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1).
  • Layers - Sweatshirt, Long Sleeved Shirt etc. - Hospitals are cold!
  • Toothbrush and tooth paste
  • Hairbrush
  • Face wipes, wash cloth, small towel and bar of soap.

SPACE PREP

1. Make sure your bed or couch is prepped. I stayed on the first level for the first 2ish days before feeling well enough to stay upstairs.
2. I used a pregnancy pillow on the bed to help me stay on my back while sleeping and help you feel cozy.
3. Stock the house with foods that will be light for your stomach. Think soups and casseroles! Saltine crackers, broths, rices etc..
4. If you have a raised bed, get a step stool to assist. It’s best to sit on the side of the bed and slowly lay your upper body down while bringing your knees up and over to your back. You will need to use arm strength the first couple of days to get you up and over since you can’t use the abdomen.
5. Water and Beverages stocked at all times. I have a reusable water bottle and avoid carbonated beverages for the time being. They fill you with gas for the procedure so it may make those symptoms worse.
6. Netflix, Kindle, Puzzles, Craft Projects…visits with friends. Whatever makes the time pass, set it up ahead of time so it’s handy.
7. Items to Keep on Hand: Baby Wipes, heating pads, pads/diapers, candles, essential oils, things that smell good haha

BOWEL PREP
This is dependent on the type of surgery you are having, but its good to have Gatorade, Magnesium Citrate (liquid), laxatives and enemas on hand just in case you need these.
ON SURGERY DAY
It’s important to follow the instructions on what to stop taking and/or eating/drinking prior to the surgery. Wear comfy clothes (wide elastic waistband) and slides with cozy socks. Double check your to go bag and breath.
AT THE HOSPITAL

1. Do your check-ins and keep your people with you as long as you want.
2. Make sure to read all the consent forms and ask any questions upfront. Make any advance directives clear.
3. Just try to remain calm as there’s a lot of down time while they do intake. It is about 2 hours of prep before they bring you in for the surgery itself.
4. They will ask you the same questions over and over again, that’s normal and trust me, you want to confirm it’s all being done properly.
5. If you need something for anxiety, they will be sure to give you something if you ask :)
6. You will be wearing a gown, socks, funky underwear and a cool hair net haha wear the gown backward so you keep warm and keep the butt covered.
7. Vitals will happen and the anesthesiologist will come and speak with you to make sure they prep the right meds beforehand. Bring up any concerns here with them!
8. You may be wheeled or walked into surgery. I’ve only ever walked in and laid on the table myself.
9. They will then put the IV in your arm and sometimes will put on a mask, they will then ask you to count backwards and before you know it, you will be awake again!

RECOVERY

• You will wake-up and feel groggy. Totally normal and you will be in a different room. They will likely say a lot really quick about your surgery. Before leaving ask for them to walk through it or see if you can speak with the doctor again when clear headed. RECOMMENDED!
• Your throat will be sore, that’s normal from the tube.
• Just relax and sleep it off if you want, the goal is to be relaxed and pee once before leaving.
• Before you go, eat and drink and pass smoke urine. They’ll provide you with the meds and you’ll be good to go.
• Make sure someone brings you home after :)
• Make sure you have a bag for vomit in the car.
• Bring a small pillow that can be strapped between the car belt and you for maximum comfort on the trip home.
• Pain Med Management: This one is important. I messed up night one and didn’t take it soon enough and was in too much pain so make sure you stick to the schedule the doctors give you to ensure you are comfortable.
• Keep Walking: It seems unnatural to have a surgery then walk, but the sooner you get up and keep moving around the house, the better. Just avoid heavy lifting and immense bending like movements. Stairs are also ok but also consult with your doctor!
• Gas Build Up: I did feel pain in my shoulders from the gas. Just keep moving! It will help get that out of the system but this pain is normal.
• Relax and let people take care of you! Don’t be too quick to recover.
• Keep an eye out for fever, increased vaginal bleeding, or feeling terrible.
• Keep all post op appointments and follow all post op instructions!

ENDOMETRIOSIS MAINTENANCE
Here’s the tips and tricks I found helpful for maintaining my pain and symptoms (GI and back pain related):

1. Pelvic Floor Therapy: This is important for keeping the muscles in your pelvis healthy and strong to maintain your structure and also help manage pain. Consult with your doctor on whether this is right for you.
2. Physical Therapy: I do PT for my back and pelvic floor since it’s all related. We focus on Myofascial Release Therapy to help break up the adhesions and give me more mobility. This helps with temporary pain relief (reduction in number), but that is always welcome :)
3. Acupuncture: I swear by Acupuncture. I don’t know what it does or why, but it works. It’s not a cure by any means, but it's great for relaxation, fertility, digestion, endometriosis, sleep, etc.. I can go on, but it’s not covered by insurance plans all the time so you will need to check and see what you’re able to take on.
4. Diet/Exercise:
   1. Eating high protein, lower fat/carbs (not none just low) helps your body, but overall learn your trigger foods! This will go a long way.
   2. Ginger, turmeric and fennel all help with bloating. I like to drink them in tea form when I’m feeling particularly hard stomached as it’s a good natural way to decrease the bloat. Peppermint also works for some, for me it irritates my GERD.
   3. Chamomile for relaxation
   4. Walking and movement are important. I cannot do anything high impact due to my sacroiliitis diagnosis, so I stick with light yoga and walking.
5. Alcohol/Other Substances: Don’t do it. Don’t touch it. You’ll thank me later on this point.
6. Sleep: Insomnia is a very real thing. I think I went 2 or 3 days at its worst one time and I cannot say enough how important trying to keep the same sleep schedule will benefit you. Waking and sleeping around the same time each day will still feel exhausting but at least you know your body is getting the most sleep it can get.
7. Medications/Supplements:
   1. Ibprofuern: This does NOT work for me. I have GERD and ulcers so I cannot take NSAIDs, but with that in mind, NSAIDs are supposedly the best pain medication over the counter to help you manage it.
   2. Pain Killers: These are AS NEEDED. I try to refrain and leave these for the TRULY bad days which I try to spread out. Not even worth it sometimes, because I don’t like how I feel and sometimes vomit after taking them. But they do help the pain!
   3. IUD/Orilissa: An IUD will NOT do anything. If you are diagnosed, ask your doctor about Orilissa or similar medicines instead of birth control methods. This will not stop the growth, just suppress it. There are side effects and it is only a short term solution.
   4. Linzess: This worked well for me for constipation symptoms when they got severe. Definitely recommend bringing this to your doctor if you’re truly suffering and they have not yet mentioned. I also resorted after trying magnesium citrate
   5. CBD Lotions/Salves: For my pelvis, I use Healing Rose CBD Salve in Orange and Lavender (https://www.thehealingroseco.com/product/orange-lavender-with-chamomile-herbal-salve-300mg-cbd/). For my back, I use a medical grade CBD lotion with menthol (https://cbdclinic.co/clinical-strength-series/). I also use a CBD massage oil from Healing Rose of the same scent when doing myofascial release at home. I also use Somedays Cramp Cream (https://somedays.com/products/period-cramp-cream?variant=42062153842853).
8. Heating Pads and Ice Pack: I have several varieties of heating pads. A cordless travel heating pad (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FPTJL4G?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details), a plug-in heating pad (lhttps://www.hsn.com/products/pure-enrichment-purerelief-xxl-heating-pad-with-9-cord/22188460) and stick on patches (https://www.thermacare.com/ - I use the back patches but reverse them to the front for better coverage). For hot flashes and night sweats (also if you need to relax while anxious) place an ice pack over your chest to help cool or calm down.
9. Self-Care: No joke, massages, facials, epsom salt baths, sound baths, reiki….anything that you find relaxing. Do it. Try it! They also make CBD bath bombs Ive been wanting to check out.
10. TENs Machine: I really want one, don’t have one, but people swear by them (the heating pad linked to MyObi has a TENs version - https://myobistore.com/en-us/collections/my-obi-belts/products/apollo-2-0).
11. Pregnancy Pillow: This one sounds so lame, but I bought a pregnancy pillow for my first endometriosis surgery since I’m a side sleeper to help keep me on my back during recovery. It changed by life! It helps my anxiety and makes me comfortable while sleeping. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08YYVRXLM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)..
12. Heated Blankets/Cozy Blankets: Make yourself feel better with a cozy blanket. Do it, I dare you!
13. Endo To-Go Bag: Includes heating pads (travel, plug-in and patches), medications, balms/salves, essential oils and pads/protection items, change of clothes, wet wipes.
14. Sex Life: I’m single, I don’t have a partner to worry about communicating this issue with at this point, but go slow and communicate given eventually this will have to be a conversation. What I have learned is that if you do have sex and feel pain. Immediately stop! If you associate sex with pain mentally in that moment, it may cause fear in doing so down the line so it’s best to stop the moment you feel any pain occur.
15. Work Life: I work a demanding job so it was not working with the appointments and care I needed to manage pain. Always get FMLA from your doctor for intermittent leave based on your company's policies. This protects you from flare-ups and appointments. Short Term Disability is based on your situation with work so talk with them about any leave of absence for surgery and recovery and ensure the medical providers fill out the paperwork appropriately.
16. Friends/Family: This one is the worst. I have to cancel and make plans all the time based on how I feel. I like to line up a bunch of plans for three months out and do my best to make them happen at the beginning of the month when I know I’m most likely to feel good. I just say I’ll make things up to them when I get better and those who have stuck around have been truly amazing friends, but don’t be upset that some might be over the day in and out of what you’re going through. It’s hard for you and sometimes others and it’s just a part of the relationships we’re meant to experience in life. Most people (unless they have endometriosis) don’t understand it so it can feel isolating, but there’s others out there who know what you’re going through and are willing to chat. Just gotta find them and reach out on social media, online etc..
17. Journaling Symptoms: Guilty of not being the best at this always, but it's good to track your symptoms to see how they work and operate. It helps not only you plan for it, but also your doctors in how best to handle your care. Take photos of things that make sense to show your doctors! Discharge, bowels etc..can sometimes help diagnose or judge with the images.
18. Next to Bed Kit: Make sure your nightstand is stocked with the essentials for your bad days. Makes it easier to access the items you need when you just can’t get up and get it.
19. Squatty Potty: Another thing that is majorly life changing on constipation days! Get one or you can make your own :) Take a stack of books and stack them at equal heights on each side and put your feet up. The trick is making sure you’re in a squat with your knees high to your ears.
20. Clothing: Dressing for this is key but you still want to look cute! Joggers with a stretchy waist are my go to pants, but wide leg trousers with a stretchy waist help with ease of removal but also comfort and brings some style to the look.
21. Pads: I wear Always Discreet vs. pads. I find when you need to wear them full time for incontinence it just makes it more comfortable. They have different cuts and styles so definitely check them out!

In January 2024 I tapered off of Paxil after 8 years of being on 20mg 1x daily.
It took 6 weeks to taper off with instructions from the dr on how to do it. I had dizzy spell, snapping at others , brain zaps and anxiousness.
I had my last does at the end of February. In March I started to get a sore throat, with tonsil stones. Then it turned in to stripes on the back of my throat and then the next day there were blisters and a bleeding. After the blisters I got the weird white spot on my throat that I swore moved from one spot to another( I know It sounds strange but I was gradually moving back into my throat. I went to the dr, had a strep, covid and mono test. All came back negative. The dr's of course said It must be a viral infection and needs to run its course! I call bs.
In April, I started to get indigestion and loss of appetite. Then one morning I woke up with throwing up, I couldn't keep anything down. I had the chills and sweating. I couldn't get out of bed because of strength and no motivation. I lost 6lbs in 4 days. I was severally dehydrated. I was also have loose stool every day Then the sever anxiousness started where It felt like my heart was beating out of my chest and like an elephant was sitting on my chest. I was scared that I was on the verge of a heart attack and thoughts of "what if I died today" . I was not feeling like myself like, I had not motivation to even take care of my house, no motivation to cook or even eat. I had to force myself to eat because I knew I needed to. But the moment the food was in my mouth I just wanted to spit it out.
My sleep routine had been disturbed . I use to be able to sleep through the night without waking up. 8:30pm to 6:30am. Now I am waking up at 2am for no reason. And then at 5:30am with the birds start singing it wakes me up. This has never happened before. I usually can sleep through anything. But the birds seem to annoy me now.
I use to enjoy coffee and a soda regularly and that has even changed where I don't even want to drink it. But I am so tired!
I am in the 2nd week of may. I started taking Turmeric for the indigestion when It occurs. I have also started drinking Chamomile, lemon balm and valerian root before bed. This has seem to help with the anxiousness and that heaviness I feel on my chest. I also have a cup of just lemon balm right after work or when I am feeling anxious.
But I still have no motivation to do things. It seems like it takes all of my strength to get up and do something. Even going to work seems like a chore. I have always enjoyed my work!
I have read on here that others have experienced some of these same symptoms even the sore throat and the flu like symptoms. I just wanted to share what I have experienced with others. Because I really thought that I was going crazy feeling the way that I was feeling. But knowing that others have also experienced some of these things too has helped me feel like I am not alone.
I have been trying to stay positive and hoping with time things will get better! One day at a time!

Wondering if anyone can help me here, and forgive me but this is going to be long. I’m a 28yo male, 5’9” 155lbs. My symptoms started 2 weeks ago today (April 29) after I had an allergic reaction to a whey protein bar. My throat closed up almost completely. I went to the ER and they administered Benadryl and a steroid, and also sent me home with a 6 day course of prednisone. I should note earlier that day before eating the bar, I had some diarrhea.
In the few days following the reaction I noticed I was not having a bowel movement. I was not in any pain or discomfort, but was simply not getting the urge to poop. I turned to trying Metamucil for a couple days but it didn’t help. Before all this I was very regular with normal big BMs, most of the time every day, sometimes I would wipe blood or there’d be blood in the bowl but I do have hemorrhoids so I never really worried about it. After the Metamucil didn’t help, I started taking stool softener and Miralax and would attempt to just force myself to have a BM, and would produce small thin soft pieces, and this went on for a few days. This made my hemorrhoids worse and I think one of them is thrombosed at this point.
Anyway, my number one concern was the fact that I was not getting the urge to go. Even after taking a dulcolax I still had to just sit down and try to go rather than feel it coming on. This made me think I have some motility or nerve problem.
Finally this past Thursday night (May 9) I downed a magnesium citrate, however it took over 12 hours to work, which I thought was strange, but had diarrhea several times Friday. I felt like I was cleared out but wasn’t sure. Friday night I thought I had to go again, but only blood came out, like a lot of blood, and I assumed I had aggravated my hemorrhoids from all the diarrhea.
To be sure, I went to the ER on Saturday due to the bleeding and also was feeling my pulse in my abdomen, and was worried about a possible blockage or aneurysm. They ran bloodwork and a CT scan which showed no blockage, but apparently a slightly distended bladder, a few small gallstones, and slightly enlarged prostate. Bloodwork showed slightly low lymphocytes, slightly high monocytes, high bilirubin (2.5 mg/dL), and small amount of ketones in urine (5 mg/dL). All of this seemed incidental and unrelated to my current issues, as the doctors only mentioned the bladder and prostate and of course recommended Miralax for my digestion problems.
I have an appointment scheduled with a gastro on Wednesday but would really love to know if I am in immediate risk for something terrible.
My main symptoms are:

• lack of urge to have a bowel movement (I like to call it heavy hips)
  
• almost constant peristalsis, gurgling, intestinal noises
  
• some gas but not more than usual, just different
  
• if I sit down to try to go, I just pass gas and very small loose pieces will come out, followed by some not so bright red blood likely from hemorrhoids. This started after the magnesium citrate.
  
• burning anus - probably also from hemorrhoids
  

I’m not in any pain just constantly feeling the movement in my stomach/intestines. My concerns are motility issue, parasites/worms, some kind of nerve damage and the bleeding. I’ve also lost a decent amount of weight but could be from stress, eating less, and the mag citrate.

Ofcourse I know none of us are doctors and I can’t take anything serious. But my GI doctor won’t see me until July 19th, and I’ve been dealing with pain for so long I’m so tired, at the point I’m going to quit my job. Earlier last month I went to bed and my stomach felt hot and everytime I moved it hurt, I never experienced this pain before, I felt like throwing up, so I tried to stay still. Then I couldn’t handle it anymore and threw up for a good hour, I was hot and hyperventilating, couldn’t breathe properly and so I went to the E.R., I honestly thought it was my apendix. But when I went they told me it was fine and they gave me just medication, doctor didn’t even bother to see me. They misdiagnosed me with a abdominal lump which got cleared up with my regular doctor. Shortly after, I started bleeding, analy (not so much) but mainly from my vagina. it lasted a bit over a month, doctor told me it was normal. They did stool and blood tests, they thought I could have celiac disease. It hurt to eat anything for two weeks, now I’m trying to eat but the pain is bad, everytime I bend down, sit down, I feel something on my left side that feels weird. The pain is at the top of my stomach. Two months later it still hurts, I get flare ups here and there that are horrible. Recently just last week I had a prolapse of my uterus, and I went to go get a massage for it. But I feel so helpless, the doctors just tell me to wait and give me pain medication. I feel crazy and helpless

How many of you guys had hemmroids at one point and once you dropped everything except meat, they stopped getting inflamed? I know, I know, it's a personal question but I've noticed when I only eat meat, they don't flare up, my stools are normal. When I was off the diet, boy they would flare up, get itchy and even bleed. It's wild cuz you got the internet saying ohhh meat causes and irritates hemorrhoids which I have not experienced at all. I experienced relief more than anything.

I had a ct scan this last week and they determined that I have bleeding ulcers all through my stomach and through the small amount of small bowel I have left. I do not have crohns or colitis. I had my colon and most of my small bowel removed due to neurogenic bowel, and then multiple complications. I have had an ileostomy since 2019. This is a new one for me. I am not in an abundance of pain but I am vomiting blood and it is in my stool. Red, and black. I am on PPI’s and Pepcid already so I am trying to figure out what is causing this. Thank you in advance.

I've noticed the passed few months, my stool is just mucus-like most of the time. Online I read soemthing about my inner linings are shedding or something like that. Just curious if I should be scared or not. I'm in my late 20s, female, I think im healthy but I've also been feeling weird lately, some nose bleeds, headaches, and what not which I've never had before. Pictuee may be too graphic but this was my stool today..
Should I be worried?

I had a missed miscarriage that i chose to have surgically removed on the 8th may 2024. i was 9w6d and had excruciating pain on my lower right abdomen which led me going into a&e on the 4th may, i then went back into hospital on the 6th due to worsening pain and light spotting, baby was confirmed to be in my womb but had no heartbeat on the 7th may.
after the operation i had minor cramps and bleeding, however i had not passed stools from the 5th-10th may and chalked up some of the pain from being constipated due to being on codeine for 4 days at the hospital. i had taken senna(laxative/stool softener) to help with the constipation.
my worry now is that i have passed stools and they are starting to look normalish ( not hard and pebble like) however for the past 24 hours or so, i have had excruciating pain again in my lower right abdomen, worse than it was previously but exactly in the same spot it was before. the pain is a mix between a tugging/tight pain, throbbing and stabbing. the pain is constantly there but occasionally i get a really sharp almost contracting like pain, that is worse when standing/sitting.
should i go to the hospital or could it just be that i am still a bit constipated? TYIA

Does anybody occasionally experience constipation, thin stools and a feeling of not being fully “empty” after a bowel movement? Can endo also cause these symptoms?
There has been so much discourse on social media recently about the rise of colon cancer rates in younger adults and what symptoms to look out for. I’m currently dealing with presumed SIBO and endometriosis (will do further testing later this year to confirm), but so many of these symptoms are the same as colon cancer symptoms. I know a colonoscopy can rule this out, but I don’t know if I can afford diagnostic surgery for endo AND a colonoscopy this year, so knowing how similar the symptoms are would likely give me some peace of mind before I get myself into loads of additional medical debt.
For reference, some of the most notable* symptoms of colon cancer include:

• Blood in Stool or Rectal Bleeding*
• Black or Dark Colored Stools*
• Pencil-Thin Stools*
• Feeling of Incomplete Bowel Movements*
• Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea*
• Chronic Bloating & Gas
• Chronic Fatigue*
• Abdominal Pain or Discomfort*
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Unintentional Weight Loss*
• Loss of Appetite*
• Acid Reflux & Heartburn

I very occasionally have thin stools and incomplete bowels when I’m constipated, which occurred tonight (hence prompting this post). I haven’t had bloody stools, chronic diarrhea, weight loss or any of the other “notable” symptoms, but the other symptoms are so vague that I’m starting to get paranoid!

just discovered this! Vitamin K2 can cause h pylori overgrowths. Most people have h pylori in their system. Most of the time it does not cause symptoms. But h pylori need vitamin K2 for energy synthesis. In other words, vitamin K2 feeds them, and you get a population explosion. They become healthy and strong, and start to wreck havoc on your system. At least they did to mine.
I came to the subreddit to warn anyone who starts K2 and develops symptoms. I took 300 micrograms of K2 for 10 days. Then I started to develop shortness of breath. Out of nowhere. I woke up to heart palpitations, and severe shortness of breath. I had to go to the ER. I thought I had a magnesium deficiency because I was also taking D3.
A random comment on YouTube got me researching the connection between K2 and h pylori. The commenter had the same symptoms I did. I talked to several more people who had similar symptoms to me. It started off with just shortness of breath and heart palpitations. Two weeks later, the other symptoms started. All gastrointestinal. Severe bloating, belching, stomach burning, nausea, chronic cough, sore throat, heat rising up the back of the throat, strange hollow/hunger feeling, dark stool, and about five or six others.
I've done weeks of research... I would get heart palpitations in the morning, because I was breathing in acid and pepsin all night. The shortness of breath comes from lung irritation from breathing in the contents of the stomach. The h pylori lower the acid content of the stomach, so the lower esophageal sphincter does not close properly. The acid and pepsin that rises up causes coughing, and a chronic sore throat. Essentially, it gave me silent acid reflux. No heartburn. But instant asthma.
The dark stool came from stomach bleeding, the bloating, belching, nausea, stomach burning came from the bacteria itself.
It has been 2 months, and I have been fighting it like hell.
But please please be careful if you are taking vitamin K2 MK7. Or maybe any K2. Other people are developing similar symptoms. This has been extremely scary. I got very very lucky that I read a comment that tipped me off. I think most people are in the dark as to what is happening to them, and what is causing it.
EDIT: I have not been tested. This is my theory based on my research. The natural treatments that I have been using for h pylori have been working to resolve my symptoms. My post may be premature, but I wanted to give people experiencing these types of symptoms after taking vitamin k2 a warning as quickly as possible. The faster they research this theory, the faster they can either rule it out, or begin treatment. I would rather they not spend extra weeks suffering these horrible symptoms if they don't have to.

I Just discovered this! Vitamin K2 causes h pylori overgrowths. Most people have h pylori in their system. Most of the time it does not cause symptoms. But h pylori need vitamin K2 for energy synthesis. In other words, vitamin K2 feeds them, and you get a population explosion. They become healthy and strong, and start to wreck havoc on your system. At least they did to mine.
I came to the subreddit to warn anyone who starts K2 and develops symptoms. I took 300 micrograms of K2 for 10 days. Then I started to develop shortness of breath. Out of nowhere. I woke up to heart palpitations, and severe shortness of breath. I had to go to the ER. I thought I had a magnesium deficiency because I was also taking D3.
A random comment on YouTube got me researching the connection between K2 and h pylori. The commenter had the same symptoms I did. I talked to several more people who had similar symptoms to me. It started off with just shortness of breath and heart palpitations. Two weeks later, the other symptoms started. All gastrointestinal. Severe bloating, belching, stomach burning, nausea, chronic cough, sore throat, heat rising up the back of the throat, strange hollow/hunger feeling, dark stool, and about five or six others.
I've done weeks of research... I would get heart palpitations in the morning, because I was breathing in acid and pepsin all night. The shortness of breath comes from lung irritation from breathing in the contents of the stomach. The h pylori lower the acid content of the stomach, so the lower esophageal sphincter does not close properly. The acid and pepsin that rises up causes coughing, and a chronic sore throat. Essentially, it gave me silent acid reflux. No heartburn. But instant asthma.
The dark stool came from stomach bleeding, the bloating, belching, nausea, stomach burning came from the bacteria itself.
It has been 2 months, and I have been fighting it like hell.
But please please be careful if you are taking vitamin K2 MK7. Or maybe any K2. Other people are developing similar symptoms. This has been extremely scary. I got very very lucky that I read a comment that tipped me off. I think most people are in the dark as to what is happening to them, and what is causing it.
EDIT: I have not been tested. This is my theory based on my research. The natural treatments that I have been using for h pylori have been working to resolve my symptoms. My post may be premature, but I wanted to give people experiencing these types of symptoms after taking vitamin k2 a warning as quickly as possible. The faster they research this theory, the faster they can either rule it out, or begin treatment. I would rather they not spend extra weeks suffering these horrible symptoms if they don't have to.

I am diagnosed with internal hems that bleed a bit. Currently i drink 1,5 liters a day and eat a lot of fiber and the stool is much Better than before. Would getting to 2 liters of water make a difference in further softening the stool? Thank you in advance

I'm a 22F and I've been having rectal bleeding for the past 5-6 months. I know this isn't the nicest topic so forgive the detail, but I know it's important - the blood is mixed in with stool, pretty red rather than dark/black, and it's never on wiping, just mixed in, maybe about 1tsp per day. I've seen my GP and they've done tests (I'll detail these later in the post), but all have been normal so far and I'm doubting whether I need to keep pushing for this or not. Right now I'm starting to doubt myself, and I question whether there is a real issue, or whether I'm building it up in my head. It's something I've always had, I think because when I was younger I had a few medical issues that either didn't present super classically, or had false negative test results, and I remember having doctors question whether I was faking it or exaggerating etc. And now it's followed me into adulthood, and at the first sign of negative test results I start to convince myself that the problem isn't real and I should just drop it. So what I'm really looking for is someone to just be really real with me, and tell me whether you think yes this is a real issue and I'm right to keep questioning it, or whether it's likely to be okay. Sorry for the potentially long post, and thank you in advance :)
It isn't present all the time, it usually comes and goes for a week or so at a time, a couple of times per month. This may be entirely a coincidence, but the first two times that it happened, it overlapped with my period. So my period started, it was fine for the first day or two, then I started noticing it (and I know you're probably thinking how do I know it's not just coming from the front, but the fact that it's so mixed in makes me think not), then my period finished, and the blood from the back carried on for another day or two. So it was like, the same timing, but delayed by a couple of days. However, since then I have also started noticing it at other times of the month as well.
In terms of other symptoms, it's hard to tell whether it's all related or not, but a couple of months before this all started I'd actually gone to see my GP about urinary issues (increased urgency and frequency over the last year or so, but with no infection - it's getting slightly better, I'm managing it) - and based on that they referred me for a pelvic USS. And the PR bleeding started while I was waiting for the USS (in terms of USS results, all clear except an incidental finding of a left ovarian dermoid cyst which I need to follow up on in a year). But yeah, other than that, no major symptoms, no change in bowel habit, just some occasional abdominal pain that I've always had really. I also do have very painful, heavy periods in general, and sometimes I've suspected endometriosis, but I also do have PCOS so some of it might just be down to that.
Anyway, so once I mentioned the PR bleeding to my GP, they did some bloods, and faecal calprotectin which were all normal. Then on a second visit I had a DRE which was fine, and they wanted me to do a FIT test specifically while I wasn't on my period to see if there was bleeding at other times, and that's just come back normal as well. I suspected it might, because like I mentioned, the bleeding comes and goes, and at the time when I did the test I wasn't really having any. But still, the fact that it didn't pick up any blood is really disheartening in a way because again, it's just making me feel like it isn't real.
If it helps to know what I'm thinking, I'm kind of at a loss. The only idea I considered at one point is that it could be endometriosis, and the blood is it starting to involve bowel. I had been thinking that because of the fact that it was timed with my period initially, so maybe endometrial tissue in the bowel shedding at the same time? Idk. It also started for the first time a few months after I stopped taking the COCP pill for a while. I know this is something that doesn't get picked up super easily and people have to really advocate for, but as I mentioned earlier on, this isn't really something I'm great at, and I would love someone to tell me if they think it's a valid thought or not and whether it is worth considering haha.
In terms of my past medical history: PCOS, and some MSK stuff which is I'm thinking is unlikely to be related so I won't go into detail (unless someone wants me to). And for drug history: I was put on the COCP pill for PCOS years ago (been a lifesaver honestly), which I've only come off temporarily twice when I had surgeries for the MSK stuff).
Thank you in advance for any help anyone can offer me. Mostly I'd just like some reassurance (if it's warranted) that this is a real issue and I shouldn't just give up and live with it. Thank you :)
(165cm, 62kg, white British, in the UK, no drinking/smoking/recreational drugs)
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