2 years with symptoms

[Gert]

Hello everyone, im new here.

Two years ago, I experienced changes in my bowel movements, primarily persistent diarrhea for about two months. These symptoms started after I contracted COVID-19. I visited my general practitioner for these complaints and had an elevated calprotectin level of 230, but everything else was normal (including blood and parasite tests).

I was referred to the hospital where they conducted additional tests (ultrasound and blood tests), which were normal, and my calprotectin level had decreased to around 120. I was told that I might have IBD and was asked if I wanted a colonoscopy. I inquired if it was necessary, and the doctor reassured me that he wasn't overly concerned since my values were good and the calprotectin level had decreased. He suggested we could monitor the situation and consider a colonoscopy later, which I agreed to.

Since then, I've had ups and downs but mainly normal bowel movements. However, last week I suddenly experienced severe stomach pain, pain after eating and drinking, and a burning sensation. This subsided within two weeks, but I still visited my general practitioner, who tested my stool for Helicobacter, which was negative. However, I also wanted my calprotectin level checked again, and this time it was 1100.

I read on a forum that NSAIDs can exacerbate inflammation. During that period, I had a toothache and used ibuprofen for two weeks. Could this be the reason for the significant increase in my calprotectin level? I have an appointment at the hospital in two months and will learn more then.

Based on my story, could this be IBD? I also experience pain when pressing on the lower right side of my abdomen. Sorry for the long story.

 

[my little penguin]

Without a colonoscopy it’s hard to tell if you have crohns
Since symptoms can be similar to other things
That said 1100 fecal cal is typically considered a flare in crohns
NSAIDs muddy the waters since some folks can’t handle it at all
In my ibd kiddo over the counter nsaids cause bloody diarrhea after just one day .
A scope may not find it either if the inflammation is in the small intestine
In which case a MRE (mri with entography) is needed .
Definitely stop nsaid until after your scopes

 

[Gert]

Thanks for your answer, i have never experienced till this point a bloody stool. But i personally think the NSAID (ibuprofen) has levetaded the calprotectin. I also know 5 years ago my general practinioner also prescribed me diclofenac and i know i became very sick of it, naussea and vomitting because of it.

I really dont want an colonoscopy because in my country they perform it with a mild sedation (you will be awake and know what happens). But what needs to be done needs to be done.

Thanks to this forum i learned about NSAID that it can worsen your inflammation and i wont use it anymore before i know for sure what i have.