Can diarrhea and stomach ulcers cause muscle pain and cramps?

Question

Hello doctor,

I started having diarrhea a week ago, and it was not getting better. Yesterday morning I started having cramps, which worsened as the day continued. The stomach pain was severe, and I could not get up. I went to the hospital, and they did blood tests, and my white blood count was up. He told me that it was an ulcer, gave me medications to coat my stomach, and gave me an antibiotic. My stomach feels better, but now I have pain in my muscles like they are bruised; it is worse on the left side of my back. Why?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You have been given an antacid and antibiotic course for your suspected gastroenteritis or ulcer-like condition. You can complete the course of that medications. Your muscle pain could be from electrolyte loss in diarrhea or excess muscle cramps. Maintain hydration with lots of water, and ORS (oral rehydration salts) can be prescribed with water to maintain electrolyte balance. Your stool routine microscopic examination and occult blood test should be done for a proper diagnosis. Avoid gastric irritants like excess spicy foods, tea, coffee, smoking, and alcohol use. Take cooked oatmeal as it helps in soothing the stomach.

Thank you.