GI problems

[concerned_to]

I made the following post the other day:
http://www.medhelp.org/forums/STD/messages/3921.html.  However I dont know whether I trust the analysis.

symptoms last everyday for last 2 weeks immediately after recovering from flu:
-unreal bloating; trapped gas; burping; trying to pass gas thru rectum
-stomach gurgles a lot (GERD?)
-bitter taste in mouth
-urine frequency was very high (by the minute).  This lasted for 5 days and now its gone.  

symptoms for past 2 years:
-feel chocked up in rectum (as if something is pushing my intestines out - related to a change in the shape of the rectum b/c of possible HIV?)
-see stool symptoms in my previous post (see above)

I understand that HIV can cause my symptoms.  i.e.
-gastroparesis (last 3 days I have been constipated and stool has been very hard which is different than the pourable stool i frequently get)
-malaborption & diareha (pourable stool)

My exposure to potential HIV was about 3.5 years ago and now I am extremely worried.  I have a colonscopy and endoscopy tomorrow but if you could provide your much valued expertise on my symptoms and your thoughts on their relation to HIV.

Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

If there is concern about HIV, despite the low risk, you should be tested to put your mind at ease.  I agree with the upper and lower endoscopy that you are having.  This will help look for things like inflammatory bowel disease, or infectious colitis.  The upper endoscopy will rule out upper GI diseases like an ulcer, inflammation or GERD.  

If HIV is present (less likely in your case - I would obtain a test to be sure), this will open up more possibilities to infectious diseases such as Cryptosporidium, Isospora, and Cyclospora.

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_

[austin$k]

I read of your symptoms in the other thread, and I have very similar symptoms.  My breakouts occur largely near my temples though.  If you have no other health problems, I seriously doubt it's HIV.  But if you are worried, get the test man!  Many clinics all over the country, and the slight embarrasment is worth the piece of mind.  Get the test.

Are your symptoms constant?  For me, I feel good for like 6-8 weeks, then have 2 weeks of misery.

[concerned_to]

Dr. Kevin Pho can you please provide me some feedback?  I would greatly appreciate it.