Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Gastroenteritis or Something Else?

Q: Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Gastroenteritis or Something Else?

Hello： It is important to monitor the changes in symptoms to determine if it is truly acute gastroenteritis. <br>If there is no improvement, it is recommended to return for a follow-up consultation. <br>In terms of diet, try to keep it light and avoid high-fat and high-protein fo

There is lower abdominal pain?

I apologize for the inconvenience, but I have recently seen a gynecologist and a gastroenterologist.
On April 17, after my gynecological examination, a cyst was found on my ovary.
On April 19, I experienced abdominal pain close to midnight that was severe enough to prevent me from sleeping, accompanied by lower back pain and abdominal pain below the navel.
On the morning of April 20, I had one episode of diarrhea, and later I consulted a gastroenterologist who diagnosed me with gastroenteritis.
However, in the past two days, I have been experiencing difficulty with bowel movements and even trouble passing gas (releasing gas provides some relief, but it feels like I can't fully expel it).
What can I do to improve this situation? What foods should I consume to aid digestion? Is the diagnosis of gastroenteritis accurate?

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/29

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It is important to monitor the changes in symptoms to determine if it is truly acute gastroenteritis.
If there is no improvement, it is recommended to return for a follow-up consultation.
In terms of diet, try to keep it light and avoid high-fat and high-protein foods.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2016/04/29

More Info

Understanding lower abdominal pain can be quite complex, especially when considering the various potential causes, including gastroenteritis and other gastrointestinal or gynecological issues. Based on your description, it seems you have already consulted both gynecological and gastrointestinal specialists, which is a positive step in addressing your symptoms.

From your account, you experienced significant abdominal pain that prevented you from sleeping, along with lower back pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen. The fact that you had a cyst on your ovary noted during your gynecological examination could be relevant, as ovarian cysts can sometimes cause pain, especially if they rupture or become larger. However, the immediate symptoms you describe, particularly the abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, suggest a gastrointestinal issue, possibly gastroenteritis.

Gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as a stomach virus, can result from various causes, including viral infections, bacterial infections, or foodborne illnesses. Symptoms typically include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. The difficulty you mentioned with bowel movements and gas could indicate that your digestive system is not functioning optimally, which can occur with gastroenteritis. The pain you feel may also be exacerbated by gas buildup, which can create a sensation of fullness or pressure in the abdomen.

To improve your symptoms and aid digestion, consider the following dietary recommendations:
1. Stay Hydrated: It's crucial to drink plenty of fluids, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea. Water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.

2. Bland Diet: Start with a bland diet that includes foods that are easy to digest. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) is often recommended for gastrointestinal distress. These foods are low in fiber and can help firm up stools.

3. Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of spicy, fatty, or fried foods, as well as dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol, which can irritate the stomach and worsen symptoms.

4. Incorporate Probiotics: Foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt (if tolerated), kefir, or fermented foods, can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which may be disrupted during gastroenteritis.

5. Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones can help ease the digestive process and reduce discomfort.

6. Fiber Gradually: Once your symptoms improve, gradually reintroduce fiber into your diet through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support digestive health.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek further medical evaluation. Persistent abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by severe symptoms like high fever, blood in stools, or significant changes in bowel habits, warrants immediate attention. Additionally, if the cyst on your ovary is causing pain or complications, further evaluation by a gynecologist may be necessary.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may align with gastroenteritis, the presence of an ovarian cyst and the nature of your pain necessitate careful monitoring. Dietary adjustments can significantly aid in managing your symptoms, but ongoing communication with your healthcare providers is crucial to ensure that any underlying issues are appropriately addressed.

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