Abdominal Bloating and Discomfort: Causes and Solutions - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Abdominal bloating, abdominal rigidity, a feeling of fullness, and discomfort or the urge to defecate after eating?


Hello Doctor, I woke up on Saturday morning (June 10, 2017) feeling sudden abdominal bloating and a hard abdomen (around the area of the navel; I'm not sure if it's my stomach or intestines).
I have rarely experienced this before and didn't think much of it (the previous night's dinner included a sizzling steak, sizzling noodles, and a salad, and I had mild gastroenteritis around the end of May during the Dragon Boat Festival).
I thought it would resolve in a day or two, but it persisted for over three days.
By Tuesday (June 13), I couldn't stand it anymore and went to see a gastroenterologist who diagnosed me with indigestion and bloating.
He inquired about my occupation and lifestyle; I am an elementary school teacher, living alone, and my eating habits on weekends are irregular, often only having two meals.
I am overweight, with a height/weight of 172 cm/75 kg.
That day, I asked the doctor if I could have an abdominal ultrasound (I went to a large hospital), but he said the ultrasound is primarily for the liver and gallbladder and refused.
He prescribed four medications: Mylanta, Famotidine, Gas-X, and Probiotics.
After taking them for a week, I didn't see much improvement, and after eating, I felt the urge to use the restroom but couldn't.
It feels like something is stuck in my abdomen, from just below the sternum to about two centimeters below the navel, and the area feels hard.
Occasionally, I also experience pain in my left rib and abdomen.
My family has a history of colon cancer, which makes me very worried.
This has continued for a week (June 10 to June 17) without significant improvement.
On Saturday (June 17), I tried eating very little, just a vegetable omelet and a small container of unsweetened yogurt (about 200 grams), and I felt somewhat less uncomfortable, but the heavy feeling in my abdomen remains.
On weekends, lying down is much more comfortable, and I don't wake up in pain.
Due to eating less, my bowel movements have decreased, and while I don't have diarrhea, I feel discomfort in my abdomen and a slight urge to defecate that I can't fulfill.
I apologize for the lengthy and somewhat disorganized message.
To summarize: 1.
I am overweight and occasionally have poor eating habits.
2.
I experience abdominal bloating and hardness (the area from just below the sternum to about two centimeters below the navel feels hard, and I occasionally have pain in my left rib and abdomen).
Eating makes me feel uncomfortable, and I sometimes burp or pass gas.
3.
Eating less makes me feel somewhat better, but it doesn't completely relieve the discomfort; lying down also helps, and I don't feel abdominal discomfort while sleeping.
4.
I have seen a doctor but haven't had an abdominal ultrasound or X-ray.
I apologize for having many questions, and I appreciate the time you took to respond.
Thank you!

Mr. Zheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/19

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


Hello: The location of your discomfort you described is more likely related to a gastric issue.
It may be advisable to consult a gastroenterologist again to determine if an endoscopy is necessary.
Ultrasound is indeed not effective for examining hollow organs such as the gastrointestinal tract.
As for whether it is caused by the colon, it may be necessary to rule out gastric issues first before considering that possibility.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/06/19

More Info


Abdominal bloating and discomfort can be quite distressing, and it sounds like you have been experiencing a range of symptoms that have persisted for several days. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for your symptoms, and I will outline these along with possible solutions.


Possible Causes of Abdominal Bloating and Discomfort
1. Dietary Factors: Your recent meals, particularly the iron plate beef and noodles, may have contributed to your symptoms. High-fat meals can slow down digestion, leading to bloating. Additionally, if you have been eating irregularly or consuming fewer meals, this can also affect your digestive health.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Given your history of mild gastroenteritis, it is possible that your digestive system is still recovering. Conditions such as functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even food intolerances (like lactose or gluten intolerance) could be contributing to your bloating and discomfort.

3. Constipation: You mentioned feeling like you need to use the restroom but are unable to do so. This could indicate constipation, which can lead to a feeling of fullness and bloating. Infrequent bowel movements can cause stool to build up in the intestines, leading to discomfort.

4. Weight and Lifestyle: Being overweight can increase abdominal pressure and contribute to digestive issues. Your sedentary lifestyle, particularly as a teacher, may also play a role in your symptoms.

5. Family History: With a family history of colorectal cancer, it is understandable that you are concerned about your symptoms. While your symptoms may not directly indicate cancer, it is important to rule out any serious conditions.


Recommended Solutions
1. Dietary Modifications: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and reduce bloating. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. Avoid high-fat and processed foods, as well as carbonated beverages that can increase gas.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated can help prevent constipation and aid digestion.

3. Regular Meals: Try to establish a regular eating schedule, aiming for smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones. This can help your digestive system manage food intake more effectively.

4. Physical Activity: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Even simple activities like walking can help stimulate digestion and alleviate bloating.

5. Medical Evaluation: Since your symptoms have persisted and you have concerns about your family history, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. Requesting abdominal imaging, such as an ultrasound or X-ray, can help identify any underlying issues. Additionally, a referral to a gastroenterologist may be beneficial for further evaluation.

6. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation into your daily routine.

7. Probiotics: Discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking probiotics, which can help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria and improve digestive health.


Conclusion
While your symptoms may be caused by a combination of dietary habits, gastrointestinal issues, and lifestyle factors, it is essential to take them seriously, especially given your family history. By making dietary changes, staying active, and seeking further medical evaluation, you can work towards alleviating your discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. Your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns early can lead to better outcomes.

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