Upper Abdominal Bloating and Irregular Bowel Movements

Q: Upper Abdominal Bloating and Irregular Bowel Movements

Hello： It is recommended to see a gastroenterologist, as the symptoms may be similar regardless of whether they originate from the stomach or the colon. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-shun.

There is a feeling of bloating in the upper abdomen and difficulty with bowel movements?

Hello Dr.
Tsai: Recently (for about two months), I have been experiencing discomfort in my upper abdomen after eating, feeling bloated.
Sometimes I feel the urge to have a bowel movement but cannot do so easily.
Additionally, my bowel habits have changed; sometimes my stools are unformed, sometimes they are pencil-thin, but at other times they appear normal.
What could be the cause of this, and should I consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon? Thank you.

Buffert, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/28

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It is recommended to see a gastroenterologist, as the symptoms may be similar regardless of whether they originate from the stomach or the colon.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/12/28

More Info

The symptoms you've described, including upper abdominal bloating, irregular bowel movements, and changes in stool consistency, can be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues. Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is essential to consider various potential causes, including functional gastrointestinal disorders, dietary factors, and possible underlying medical conditions.

One of the most common conditions that could explain your symptoms is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, which can include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two. The fact that you experience bloating after meals and have irregular bowel movements aligns with this diagnosis. Stress, dietary choices, and lifestyle factors can exacerbate IBS symptoms, making it crucial to evaluate these aspects of your life.

Another possibility is that you may be experiencing gastrointestinal dysmotility, where the movement of the intestines is either too fast or too slow. This can lead to symptoms such as bloating and difficulty in passing stool. Additionally, the presence of pencil-thin stools can sometimes indicate a narrowing of the intestinal passage, which may be due to conditions such as strictures or other structural abnormalities. However, this is less common and would typically require further investigation.

Dietary factors can also play a significant role in gastrointestinal health. High intake of certain foods, especially those rich in fiber, can lead to bloating and changes in stool consistency. If your diet has recently changed, it may be worth considering how these changes could be impacting your digestive health. Foods that are high in fat, sugar, or artificial sweeteners can also contribute to bloating and irregular bowel movements.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Since your symptoms involve both upper abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits, starting with a visit to a gastroenterologist (a specialist in liver, gallbladder, and digestive tract issues) would be appropriate. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and possibly diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies, or endoscopy if necessary.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it correlates with your symptoms. This can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or exercise can help alleviate some symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms of upper abdominal bloating and irregular bowel movements could be related to IBS, dietary factors, or other gastrointestinal issues. A consultation with a gastroenterologist is recommended to explore these possibilities further and to develop an appropriate management plan tailored to your needs.

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