<human>: hi im 23 i have had bad stomach pains for the past few months with i thought were down to ovarian cysts, but now my bowel movements have changed, the can go from small balls wich are hard to pass or just like jelly, everytime i go i have alot of yellow stringy like mucus in it aswell.....what could it be??
<bot>: Hi. Thanks for your query. The changed bowel movements in your case at the age of 23 are more suggestive of an intestinal infection. I would advise you the following:First get a proper course of an antibiotic and metronidazole for 5 to 7 days with added probiotics, multivitamins. If this gives you complete relief-no need of further treatment except for care to have treated water and fresh home-made food to avoid water-borne infections. If there is no relief you will have to undergo following investigations:Investigations:*Routine blood investigations like Complete blood picture, blood sugar, urea, creatinine, liver function tests, thyroid function tests.*Urine -routine and microscopy*Stool: routine, microscopy, occult blood, culture and sensitivity.*Ultrasonography of abdomen, *Colonoscopy All these investigations should be within normal limits for one to say you have IBS. And get treated accordingly.