For the past week, I have had weakness in my body even though I have been eating well. My stools have been shreddy and are soft light brown with some dark brown or gray portions, which I haven’t experienced before. There is no blood, and I go to the bathroom once a day. I also have soreness in my stomach. I have been taking Pepcid AC, Pepto-Bismol, etc., but nothing has helped. Could I have some kind of a virus, or could something be wrong with my liver or intestines?

---

It sounds like a virus, although a week is kind of a long time to have these symptoms. You should see a doctor. Insurance is to prevent catastrophic financial loss, not to "pay for" all medical care. You should budget to at least cover episodic medical care.

---

Recent Questions

I am a 31-year-old female. I was recently diagnosed with a venous malformation o. . . the doctor's response

Seven years ago, I had my tubes tied. Could they ever come undone, or could I el. . . the doctor's response

My 27-year-old wife has problems with her ears. Six years ago, her ears clogged . . . the doctor's response

For the past week, I have had weakness in my body even though I have been eating. . . the doctor's response

Several years ago, I was diagnosed as having an ulcer. A few months ago, I start. . . the doctor's response

---

Do you have a question? Submit your question here to be considered.

---

DISCLAIMER: Ask a University Physician is a University of Mississippi Medical Center informational program designed to provide general information on a variety of health topics. It is not a physician referral service, nor is it designed as a "second opinion" source for the initial diagnoses of individual health care providers. It is certainly not intended to take the place of your personal physician - should you or one of your family members have a medical problem, always consult your own physician for diagnosis and treatment.