Brief Answer:
Suspected acute viral gastroenteritis...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

1. If the home test for blood in stools resulted positive, it means that there is bleeding anywhere in your GI tract.

If you have that little tear, then, it is the cause to presence of blood in stool. I'd advise to run quantitative fecal occult blood test to rule out GI bleeding. This is a test run at a central lab.

2. The normal color of stool is brown. If your stool have become yellow, and floating with increased frequency of bowel movements (bm), then this is a case for malabsorption due to possible viral gastroenteritis (especially if you are also having other flu-like symptoms).

3. Codamol is a combination of paracetamol + codeine. It won't affect stool appearance. Instead, codeine itself might cause less bm.

I advise to:
- increase water intake. Better mix with oral ORS
- avoid foods that would cause mushy stools like those high in carbohydrates, lactose, fats, cabbage, etc.
- take probiotics to optimize intestinal flora

Hope it was of help!
Dr.Albana

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Brief Answer:
IBS/menopausal hormonal changes to rule out...

Detailed Answer:
Hi back my dear,

Being anxious and upset, shaking and crying all the time, and taking into account your age, all all signs of menopausal hormonal changes.

IBS is also to rule out as many factors might trigger it:
- being anxious
- hormonal changes

Furthermore, although no organic problems are present in your guts, however, your brain is perceiving more gut-troubles due to anxiety.

That's why it is important to try to control stress. You can start visiting an OG specialist and to run hormonal tests to evaluate their oscillations.

Taking chamomile/valeriana tea can help. Meanwhile, coffee, energetic drinks or other foods/drinks that would trigger IBS or stimulate bowel movements, should be avoided.

Keep well hydrated (drink more water and other fluids) and try to be physically active. Organize physical activities breathing fresh air.

Hope it was of help!
Dr.Albana

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