Loose stools, abdominal pains, cramps. WBC high, ESR raised. What could be the reason?
Patient: hi I ve had loose stools and abdominal pains and cramps for sometime . My WBC is slightly high and ESR also raised. When I smoke or eat it seems to trigger the pain mainly from the upper right side of abdomen. I thought it was a lactose intolerance but I m now concerned it may be more sinister? Please help I m really worried Doctor: Hi and thanks for the query,These characteristics are compatible with an acute infectious process. This is not compatible with lactose intolerance. You must have had a past history while younger and the association of fever, raised white blood cells and erythrocyte sedimentation rates make this possibility unlikely. It is reasonable to do a stool examination and culture to exclude Typhoid and E coli infections.Collection of further samples and sending to the laboratory should be followed by administration of specific broad spectrum antibiotics like quinolones. You should consult your family care physician for further advice,Kind regards.Bain LE, MD.