Suggest Treatment For Chronic Diarrhea And Ulcerative Colitis

Posted on Tue, 6 Dec 2016

Question: I have had chronic diarrhea since July of this year. I do have ulcerative colitis. I have lost over twenty lbs. I'm on viberzi for this now, but it is not helping much. Had a colonoscopy last week. Was fine. I'm getting very skinny, weak, tired. Scared. What could or should my dr and I do next? I try to eat, but within two hours or so, the food goes straight thru, with a lot of cramping and pain.

Answered by Dr. Scott Rebich (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Imodium, probiotic, and increase the fiber in your diet

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,

It sounds like your not benfitting from the Viberzi.

What other anti-diarrheal medications have you tried?

I would recommend taking a probiotic. You should also try lomotil or xifaxan.

Imodium is also another very good medication which is very safe.

Occasionally, some people in your situation will get good benefit from psyllium or methylcellulose.

You can also try to increase the fiber in your diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Scott Rebich (1 hour later)

I will try a probiotic. I have tried Imodium in the past. I have also used loperamide. That helps some. I do eat well when I can. I see my dr. The 29th. I will suggest the other meds u mentioned to her also. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Scott Rebich (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Stool studies.

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,

You may also want to have stool studies to make sure you body is not trying to fight an infection as well.

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D