I have had this now since before christmas and there is no respite. I have a constant discomfort in my lower abdomen with occasional pains in upper abdomen.

The feeling of needing to empty bowels is almost constantly present, and I have an actual evacuation three or four times a day, sometimes more, and often soon after eating. The stools are extremely soft (almost shapeless at times) and very dark.

I went to the doctor in December and she said nothing to worry about, probably an infection - go back if not better after a week. After a week I went back and she said the same thing, so I did not bother her again. Now, after a further seven or eight weeks, it is not better. I am worried that there may be something serious going on but don't want to make a nuisance of myself at the surgery.