What Causes Stomach Cramps Along With Diarrhea And Excessive Sweating?

Posted on Sat, 27 Dec 2014

Question: Hi! I'm puzzled by these "spells" I have. First off I have hashimoto's disease. When I first had thyroid problems I was having these spells frequently. Stomach cramps followed by racing heart. Eventually vomiting and diarrhea simultaneously. Confusion and muscle weakness along with excessive sweating. When these spells end, usually within 15 minutes, I'm exhausted and have severe chills. I haven't had one in about 5 years, but this morning, I did. They are terrifying when they come. What can be causing this?

Answered by Dr. Binu Parameswaran Pillai (28 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Possibilities

Detailed Answer:
Good day,
Noted your symptoms. What dose of thyroxine are yo taking now?
Whan was a thyroid function test and what was the results?
Do you think you could be having hot flushes?

To analyze your symptoms, it is possible in few hormone conditions like pheochromocytoma and carcinoid syndrome to have such symptoms. However, they are extremely rare. Most common things to present with such symptoms are
a) Hyperthyroidism ( from excess Thyroxine) b) Hot flushes, c) Anxiety/panic episodes. d) Irregular heart rhythms.

However, eventhough rare, Pheochromocytoma and carcinoid syndrome need to be excluded. You need a thorough physical examination, and few tests like ECG with a long rhythm strip, CBC, ESR, calcium profile, Electrolytes, Thyroid profile, Urine 5 HIAA, 24 Hour urine MEtanephrines etc.

Please discuss with your doctor about these tests and possibilities.

Regards
Binu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Binu Parameswaran Pillai (1 hour later)

I'm taking 45 mg of Armour Thyroid. 1200 iu of D3 and B-complex with B12. I went to my endo last week and my TSH level was 0.276. I'm thinking possible hyper since Hashi can bounce back and forth. Hot flushes I have been over for about 2 years now. I do have anxiety disorder, but since I have been on the thyroid meds, that has been under control.

Answered by Dr. Binu Parameswaran Pillai (40 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hyperthyroidism possible

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for the reply.Your TSH is slightly towards lower side and it may be worth reducing the dose of thyroid medication.
It may be bit difficult to monitor Thyroid profile with Armour thyroid and not many endocrinologists prefer that. Many prefer Synthroid over Armour thyroid.

As you mentioned, hyperthyroidism itself could cause your symptoms. However, the other causes which I mentioned earlier need to be ruled out. It is recommended to use calcium daily.

Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar