Should I try Isabgol for my gut problems or should I see an expert first?
The question, asked by a woman aged 30 to 44
I have had issues for a while but they have been getting worse recently. I get cramps, loose motions and urgency sometimes going to the bathroom several times a day. I am also more tired than usual. Do not have much of an appetite. Someone recommended Isabgol. Should I try it myself or see a doctor first?
Now, Isabgol or psyllium husk can help with mild digestive issues. This can include worsening cramps, urgency, repeated visits to the bathroom, tiredness, and poor appetite. It is best to see a doctor first. Now, Isabgol can ease the symptoms for a while and hide why this is happening in the first place. Here is what might be occurring: It might be some infection, such as a bacterial or parasitic which can lead to loose stools and stomach ache An inflammation in the gut, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, can be the reason for your fatigue and loss of appetite. The condition of an overactive thyroid might explain fast digestion, which results in frequent stools. Frequent loose stools can make your body loose water and electrolytes, draining your energy. If, however, you do see blood in your stool, fever, or any cramping in the lower abdomen, it is important to make a doctor’s visit first.
Suggested Tests
Stool routine, culture and ova and parasites, to rule out infection C. difficile toxin test Faecal calprotectin CBC, ESR and CRP Serum electrolytes and kidney function Serum albumin, ferritin, vitamin B12 TSH and free T4, as an overactive thyroid can cause frequent loose stools Coeliac screen with tTG-IgA and total IgA Colonoscopy
How Clinic Living Plus Can Help
However, Isabgol or psyllium husk can be useful when dealing with mild problems of the gastrointestinal tract. These can range from increased cramps, urge, frequent visits to the toilet, fatigue, and poor appetite. Of course, one should consult your physician prior to self-medication. However, Isabgol can reduce the signs for some time and mask the true reasons for them. Here are some possibilities: It might be an infectious condition such as bacterial infection, parasitosis, or C. difficile. These can result in loose stools and cramps. Inflammation in the intestine can be a reason, which can range from ulcerative colitis to Crohn’s disease and result in fatigue and poor appetite. Hyperthyroidism can be in overactivity of the intestine and fast digestion, hence frequent stools. The loose stools drain water and electrolytes from the body and make you fatigued. However, if one notices the presence of blood in the stools, fever, and any cramps in the lower abdomen, one should contact their physician first.
Lifestyle & Nutrition Tips
Prior to taking Isabgol, consult an expert, particularly when there are loose stools. Go for small and easily prepared homemade food when you experience the symptoms. Eat easily digestible foods such as rice, oatmeal, bananas, vegetables and some amount of protein. It’s important to stay hydrated, as loose stools cause dehydration, and nutrients get wasted along with it. Do not eat foods and beverages that may trigger the symptoms. However, do not be too restrictive in your diet because you need proper nutrition to stay healthy.
What to Do Next
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