Could this be a food intolerance or something more?

[SunnyForever84]

For several years I have had digestive issues but never sought medical attention. I have been uninsured for a while and just put off the extra cost thinking that it was no big deal. This was a mistake as my symptoms have persisted and only gotten worse. I intend on seeing a doctor in the next couple of weeks. However, I am curious to find out if this is likely a food intolerance or something more and what should I expect as far as finding out what is wrong? Being uninsured, I'd like to have an idea of what tests I would likely need to have and pay for.

The symptoms are as follows and they aren't pretty so please excuse the unpleasantness.

1) Acid reflux and heartburn. Often when I have red sauces or fried foods.
2) Sore throats nearly every morning and sometimes during the day.
3) Diarrhea and loose stool the majority of the time and for at least a couple years.
4) Orange and yellow stool often.
5) Abnormally foul smelling stool.
6) A lot of belching and flatulence often. I noticed this has been worse after consuming milk and maybe my coffee with cream (though this breaks my heart.)
7) Nausea
8) Bloating
9) A discomfort/pressure about an inch from my navel on my left side. It is a specific spot.
10) Headaches, fatigue, feverish feeling. (These could be from other factors since I have a mental health diagnosis and sleep issues.)

I am just unsure about what is happening, what all I should try eliminating from my diet and what kind of testing I should maybe expect.  

Any insight would be much appreciated. Thank you!

[SassyLassie]

Hello~Your symptoms all point to a condition called "Candida" This is a yeast infection that originates in the gut. I would try cutting out all sugars, wheat and yeast products, alcohol and fruit juices. I would add a good, high potency pro-biotic to your diet as this will help to put the "friendly" bacteria back in your tummy. Ask the doctor to let you do a stool sample test, this is the most accurate test for ruling out Candida.

For the acid reflux, try drinking 2 oz of aloe vera juice.

[SunnyForever84]

Thank you!! I recently had a stool sample done and will be following up with my doc soon.

[SunnyForever84]

Also, I had another post regarding sugar cravings at night and someone else mentioned candida overgrowth as well. It completely makes sense. Thanks again!

[NF_Nix]

I believe u have acid reflux so avoid spicy things or get pepto because ur uninsured or id say get a prescription. Also sounds like you've become lactose intoloent that would explain the pain and bleching and such. so they have over the counter meds for that if u don't avoid dairy, id switch to silk its awesome. As for the color of ur stool that may be a reflection of what u ingest. Example baby eats peas and has green stool.so think on that as well. I also suggest bringing these possibilitys to ur Dr somethimes they don't think of then themselves.