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Husband suddenly drinking milk

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ExDancer Tue 24-Jun-25 13:18:30

DH was admitted to hospital 3 months ago, in March, after a routine blood test at the surgery found he had a dangerously low red cell count.
He's very private with his health problems and won't discuss them with me, so I have very little knowledge of what exactly is wrong with him.
Since then he has lost 2 and a half stone. He was overweight and looks better for it, but he has also developed urgent diarrhoea and stomach cramps.
I persuaded him to go back to his GP, he would not allow me to go with him, and after much nagging from me he told me she'd diagnosed IBS. So I'm being very careful with his diet, so far without improvement.
Last week he came back from buying his newspaper with a 4 pint container of full fat milk which he drank that day. He's continued to do this every day since.
His diarrhoea, weight loss and cramps continue.
He flatly refuses to go back to the doctor.
How do I deal with this idiot man? He is 87.

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Flippinheck Sat 26-Jul-25 13:15:55

I am so sorry you are in this position. Low red blood cell count, unintended weight loss and change in bowel habits are indicators of a serious problem. This problem may also involve acid indigestion and heartburn, problems which can be calmed a little by milk which is alkaline. Do you think he is frightened rather than stubborn and just doing his best to control his symptoms and pretend there is nothing wrong? He may need support, but he also needs to understand that his refusal to confide in you is both extremely selfish and hurtful. I would tell him this is clear terms, but you have to deal with it in your own way. I wish you both well.

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Flippinheck Sat 26-Jul-25 13:17:51

OldFrill

I'd never call my husband an "idiot man" no wonder your husband doesn't share with you
Have you considered this "idiot man" may be lying to you and he has a terminal diagnosis, or he's in denial and ignoring it?
I am not the first on the thread to suggest this.

Harsh!

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