How to support my friend with severe gastrointestinal issue?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am writing to you with a grave concern regarding my friend. He has been suffering from severe gastrointestinal issues lately, and I fear it may be a case of Crohn's disease or another inflammatory bowel disease.

My friend has always been a vibrant and energetic young man, but recently his health has taken a concerning downturn. He has been experiencing bouts of debilitating abdominal pain, along with frequent bouts of diarrhea and nausea. At times, the discomfort is so severe that he is not able to leave his home or attend to his daily responsibilities.

His condition seems to be worsening by the day, and I am worried. He has always been so full of life, and it pains me to see him suffering in such a way. I have urged him to seek medical attention, but he is hesitant, fearing the worst.

As his closest friend, I want to support him. But I am at a loss as to how to best approach this delicate situation. Should I insist he see a specialist, or would that only add to his anxiety?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Is he constipated? Please elaborate on his symptoms in detail so I can better guide you.

Make sure he is well-hydrated and avoids alcohol, non-vegetarian foods, smoking, fried and oily foods, junk food, packaged food, and milk. He should take a light, easily digestible, home-cooked diet that is balanced well unless otherwise contraindicated. Start doing walks, yoga, and exercise as his health permits. Start gradually, get physically examined by a gastroenterologist, and consider an endoscopy. Avoid stress and treat anxiety well with the help of a counselor, psychiatrist, or meditation.

The Probable causes of his condition may be:

Smoking.
NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.)
Family history.
Low immune system.

Investigations to be done:

Blood test– to investigate anemia and any infections.
Stool study for hidden (occult) blood or organisms such as infection-causing bacteria or parasites.
Colonoscopy (a procedure done to look inside the colon or large intestine with a special scope inserted through the anus) or Endoscopy (a procedure that allows a doctor to view the internal organ) with biopsy (a procedure in which a piece of tissue is removed from the body for laboratory testing)

Treatment plan:

Lifestyle modification.
Anti-diarrheal medications.
Vitamin supplements.

If diet and lifestyle changes, drug therapy, or other treatments do not relieve your signs and symptoms, then go for surgery.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.