Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Teens

Abdominal pain

Hello doctor, I am a third-year junior high school student.
Recently, I have been experiencing abdominal pain (almost every day I have a bowel movement) and have had diarrhea for a while (the abdominal pain is often accompanied by gas).
A few days ago, I drank milk, and I usually have diarrhea after drinking milk.
However, even before drinking it, I would experience abdominal pain before having a bowel movement.
After I finish a bowel movement, I noticed blood on the toilet paper.
Recently, I have been drinking a lot of water, which has alleviated some symptoms, but I still experience abdominal pain.
It feels like I need to have a bowel movement, but when I sit down, it takes a long time to pass.
After I finish, I still have abdominal pain for a while.
The pain is located in the abdominal area.
I also haven't had my menstrual period for a long time.
Could this be a sign that it is about to come?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/26

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At the age of 14, menstrual cycles are generally more irregular compared to adults, so it is possible that your concerns are valid.
Additionally, lactose intolerance is common among East Asians, which can lead to abdominal pain and diarrhea after consuming milk.
If diarrhea occurs frequently, it may result in some bleeding, but this should not be a major cause for concern.
It is advisable to avoid dairy products for now, as this should help improve your symptoms.
Monitor whether the abdominal pain and diarrhea persist.
If diarrhea resolves but abdominal pain continues, you may want to consult a gynecologist for further guidance.

Reply Date: 2016/09/26

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain in teenagers can be quite complex, as there are numerous potential causes and factors that can contribute to the discomfort. In your case, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of symptoms, including abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and the presence of blood on toilet paper after bowel movements. Let's break down these symptoms and explore possible causes and solutions.

Possible Causes of Abdominal Pain
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Given your symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal pain, it is possible that you are experiencing a gastrointestinal issue. This could range from something as simple as a food intolerance (like lactose intolerance, which you mentioned with milk) to more complex conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The presence of blood in your stool or on toilet paper is concerning and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

2. Dietary Factors: Your diet plays a significant role in digestive health. Consuming greasy or spicy foods, or having a diet low in fiber, can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. If you have recently changed your diet or increased your intake of certain foods, this could be contributing to your symptoms.

3. Stress and Anxiety: As a teenager, academic pressures and social situations can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can manifest as physical symptoms, including abdominal pain. This is often referred to as "psychosomatic" pain, where emotional distress leads to physical symptoms.

4. Menstrual Cycle: You mentioned that your period has not arrived for some time. If you are sexually active, it is important to consider the possibility of pregnancy, as well as other menstrual-related issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances, which can cause abdominal pain.

Recommended Solutions
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given the presence of blood in your stool and ongoing abdominal pain, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend tests such as blood work, stool tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Keep a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. If you suspect lactose intolerance, consider reducing or eliminating dairy products from your diet. Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help regulate bowel movements and reduce constipation.

3. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea. Water is the best choice, but you can also consider electrolyte solutions if diarrhea persists.

4. Stress Management: Incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine. Practices such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness can help manage stress and anxiety, which may alleviate some of your abdominal pain.

5. Monitor Menstrual Health: If your period does not arrive soon, or if you experience significant changes in your menstrual cycle, it is important to discuss this with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if there are any underlying hormonal issues that need to be addressed.

Conclusion
Abdominal pain in teenagers can arise from a variety of causes, including gastrointestinal issues, dietary factors, stress, and menstrual health. It is essential to take your symptoms seriously, especially with the presence of blood, and seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation. By addressing dietary habits, managing stress, and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can work towards finding relief and improving your overall health. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate these challenges.

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