Answered by Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Answered by Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

What are the symptoms that suggest irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Hello doctor,

For how long is it normal to be constipated? Is it dangerous to experience constipation for two and a half months? I have been using Metamucil gummies two to three times per week to promote bulky stools; is it okay to continue taking Metamucil for over two months? Although I strain without seeing blood, I can go to the bathroom and have bowel movements every five to seven days. I also experience acid reflux and often have a lot of gas. Could this be indicative of IBS or something else? What foods can I consume at night and in the morning to promote bulky stools, besides breakfast cereal? What can I take for gas relief?

My mom recently arrived three days back and even took a bus. She is staying in a hotel, and I have not seen her yet. I am concerned that she might have COVID-19 since she traveled from another country. She has not taken the coronavirus tests yet, and I am anxious to see the results. I am hesitant to put her in a car and take her for testing, as it poses a risk to my health and that of my husband. I suggested she take two antigen or PCR tests, but she has not done so yet and wants to meet me in her hotel to give me a bag of stuff. I am not comfortable eating in restaurants or riding in her car, nor do I want to put her in my car. She will not come inside the house, and that is her decision. I do not want to go to her hotel room. What precautions can I take if I meet her in the hotel to avoid contracting COVID-19, aside from wearing a mask? She is 76 and mentioned on the phone before the trip that she has not had COVID-19.

Kindly help.

21 May 2024 - 1 min read

Can there be a possibility of COPD despite normal lung test values?

Hi doctor,

I received the results of my lung test and almost everything is fine. However, I was told that there is a possibility of a mild obstructive defect. I am scared and suspect that it could be chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). I have never smoked. The forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV)1, FEV1/FVC, total lung capacity (TLC), and residual volume (RV) are normal, and I have shared the values. There is no significant bronchodilator response. Kindly give an opinion.

20 May 2024 - 1 min read

What are the methods for treating pimples on the penis?

Hello doctor,

I have some pimple-like symptoms in my pubic region. I noticed it over three weeks ago. Assuming it is just heat rashes, I have applied some soothing cream on it, but they are not fading. Kindly help.

Thank you.

20 May 2024 - 1 min read

How to treat stomach problems and digestive issues?

Hello doctor,

I have a lot of problems with my stomach like abdominal bloating, belching, stomach fullness all the time, and occasional GERD which causes a lot of pain. I have been on depression medications for a long time. Many of the medicines do not suit me and make the problem of GERD very bad. Recently I came across a problem named SIBO. Could it be the same with me? Are there good treatments available? What in general is the treatment?

Kindly help.

19 May 2024 - 1 min read

My chest hurts on smoking. Is this indicate lung cancer?

Hello doctor,

I am a 28-years-old male with 250 lb. I have little pain in the chest when taking a deep breath, especially in the morning. I do not have a cough at all when I try to cough hard sometimes there is little tiny blood in my saliva, and my mouth tastes bloody. I keep smoking these two weeks a lot which I can see when I smoke a lot my chest hurts, but this blood thing is scaring me that I may have lung cancer. What should I do?

12 May 2024 - 1 min read

Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar
Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

Education

MBBS., MD

Specialties

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

Specialized Treatments

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.