Back pains, consistent diarrhea, and lack of appetite

Posted by sragan @sragan, Mar 17 5:32pm

Hi all. I am in my early 20s and don't have much of a group (especially my age) to lean towards for support with this. I have a colonscopy and upper endoscopy this Friday afternoon, but the past 2 weeks have felt unbearable for me. I am barely able to sleep, have terrible lower back pain that doesn't go away no matter how good the massage/stretch, and have been unable to eat much of anything. I am starving, but 2-3 bites in, I just want to toss the whole meal. I have tried broth, shakes, smaller lighter meals.....really anything to keep myself up with nutrients. I am unable to stay out of the bathroom or feeling like I will mess myself past 15 minutes. Thankfully the procedure is soon so answers will hopefully follow, any tricks/tips/suggestions in the mean time?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Digestive Health Support Group.

Janell, Volunteer Mentor | @jlharsh | Mar 17 6:55pm

Welcome, @sragan. You have found a group to lean towards for support!

It does sound awful that you are so uncomfortable and cannot find relief. Good news is you have an attentive doctor pursuing colonoscopy and endoscopy procedures that will help you know more soon!

I have had my share of pain but I am not sure I recognize what is happening with you. As you wait for others to comment you may find it helpful to browse through other discussions. Certainly do your try your own searches, and maybe try what I found below.

- Digestive Health Support Group ‘back pain diarrhea lack of appetite’search:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/digestive-gastrointestinal-problems/
You mention an unbearable last 2 weeks. Is this when all your symptoms started happening? Have you tried ice or heat? Can you find a tolerable position?

Susan F, Volunteer Mentor | @susanf8 | Mar 17 11:19pm

Hi @sragan

I hope you find some answers soon. In the mean time, if your bottom is getting sore from the diarrhea, zinc oxide ointment can create a soothing barrier. Epson salt baths can also help there, and perhaps for the back pain.

Have you spoken to your medical team about not being able to eat or sleep? If you are rapidly losing weight that is good data to give them. There are medications to help with nausea, pain, and diarrhea, perhaps those are an option?