I have been sick for about a week now with bowel problems. i haven't been to a doctor because i was diagnosed about 10 years ago with ibs. I was assuming the recent sickness had to do with a bout of IBS. However about 10 days went by before i had a bowel movement. i did end up going with the help of 4 laxitives. Ever since i have gone to the bathroom, i have been very sick to my stomach and "sick" feeling. ALso within the past week, a knot has become visible and is very painful where my lymph node is on my left side groin area. i am a 29 year old female and have, for the most part, been very healthy. My periods have always been painful and heavy, but regular. i do not believe my menstrual cycle has anything to do with any of this. could this possibly be just a coincidence that it all has happened at once or possibly something serious? i am laid off work right now and cannot afford regular visits to the doctor, but am very concerned! today was the first day i have been able to eat a "normal" meal and have lost 8 lbs in a week. I am so frustrated and dont want to deal with any of it! what are major / serious symptoms that i would need to see a doctor?