
Brain Fog, Fatigue, Difficult To Concentrate, Taking Probiotic. What Should I Do? Have IBS

Thanks,
Post antibiotic bowel dysfunction is a well known entity and is secondary to the alteration in the normal bowel flora. It usually gets corrected by avoiding milk temporarily and taking zinc supplements and probiotics. IBS by defenition is abnormal stooling habits and abdominal discomfort that is releived by passing stools.
The clouding of sensorium is not a known side effect of probiotics. Vit B12 defeciency can certainly cause it; so get it checked. Body has XXXXXXX checks and it converts any lactic acid prodoced and absorbed into blood into bicarbonate and carbon dioxide. Lactic acidosis is not seen in otherwise normal individuals and is associated withfatigue, muscle cramps, acidotic breathing and occasionally seizures.
Also get a minimental test done from your GP as it will help plan further investigations and treatment
Regards
Dr XXXXXXX


I would describe my condition as finding my self in a slight daze, where I am still capable of doing mentally challenging tasks, though I find it harder to concentrate and easier to get distracted. There are times of the day when I feel normal and times when I have this slight daze like feeling. I had a feeling that this could be a herx reaction from the probiotics, but it does not seem to have improved even after two weeks of stopping the probiotics.
I will visit a GI tomorrow and I will try to get tested for electrolytes and Vitamins and Mineral deficiencies. As for the IBS, I am planning to get a colonoscopy soon to rule out other causes. Any other advice, you might have?
Thanks,
It's good that the minimental examination was easy for you. Probiotics as I said normally don't cause such reactions. Sometimes the stabilizers and the fillers used in them can cause allergic reactions like oral ulcers or periorbital swelling. Repeating a stool examination on a couple of days prior to colonoscopy may be better. Rest discuss with your GI regarding the mental clouding and some physical examination may give additional clues.
Regards
Dr XXXXXXX

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