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1806721 tn?1554333407

Can IBS-C suddenly turn into IBS-D?

I've had IBS-D for over 10 years.  The constipation had been so severe that only Linzess could offer relief and it was extremely painful when I was finally able to go after 2-3 weeks absence of BM.  The whole clearing process usually lasts several hours to half day with at least a dozen runs.  

All of this suddenly changed 3 weeks ago when I, without taking any laxatives, started explosive watery diarrhea.  At first I thought it was an acute infection or food poisoning.  But I've been having it daily for the past 3 weeks.  The diarrhea is so bad that I am having fecal incontinence every now and then.  

I also noticed that I'm having more frequent stomach spasms in my epigastric region, which is unrelated to the timing of diarrhea episodes and can last 6-8 hours, often worse in the middle of the night.

For someone who is used to constipation, this has been a real torture as I'm not sure how to deal with diarrhea like this. I've lost almost 15 pounds over the last 3 weeks.  My BMI is down to 15.9.  Does anyone else have similar experience like this?  And for the IBS-D sufferers, could you please share some tips on how to manage your symptoms and control the rapid weight loss?  Thanks so much!!!!!
3 Responses
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973741 tn?1342342773
Hey, I was wondering if you ever followed up with your doctor about this and what happened.  Is there any update?
Helpful - 0
15695260 tn?1549593113
Hello and welcome to the forum.  It has been a little time so was wondering if you saw your doctor and if this resolved.  Your weight loss is concerning so I do encourage you to check in with your doctor as soon as possible if you haven't already.  Is there any blood or mucus in the stool?  While it could be IBS-D, it does seem odd that you'd have such a switch from constipation to diarrhea.  Have you changed your diet at all?  Here is some information to read through related to triggers for IBS-D to see if anything looks like it could fit your situation. https://www.medicinenet.com/ibs-d_irrititable_bowel_syndrome_with_diarrhea/article.htm  Many people with irritable bowel syndrome will, in fact, alternate between constipation issues and diarrhea. That isn't uncommon. You also may want to have a test for celiac disease. You don't mention a fever here but it is indicated you had one the time.   Fevers typically are a sign of an infection.  That could be unrelated to the diarrhea or it could all be the same. Viral gastroenteritis can cause diarrhea and fever. Ulcerative colitis often has a fever associated with it at the time of onset. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4967693/  This article talks about ulcerative colitis presenting initially including a fever of unknown origin which is said to happen in about 40% of those diagnosed.  

Let us know how you are doing.
Helpful - 0
207091 tn?1337709493
Have you seen your doctor about this? You really should. It could be the IBS, but it could also be something more.

I read your journal, and you say you have a fever of 102. That wouldn't happen with just IBS happening. You could have some kind of infection that needs to be treated, and you should get checked out really soon.

I have IBS-D, and haven't ever lost that much weight during a flare, either. I really think something else is happening. Please consider going to the doctor or emergency room, if you haven't already.

Let us know what happens.
Helpful - 0
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