Gastrointestinal discomfort
About two weeks ago, I started experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort with the following symptoms: my stomach occasionally makes strange noises, which I rarely experienced before.
It's not the sound of hunger, as it occurs even after I've eaten a full meal.
One night, while lying in bed, it was quite loud.
Over the past two weeks, I have hardly had any normal, formed stools; instead, I mostly have small, soft, fragmented stools or diarrhea.
I recall having only one instance of passing a few segments of soft, formed stool.
Additionally, I feel a sense of heaviness and discomfort in my upper abdomen, which is hard to describe, but it is uncomfortable.
Occasionally, I experience pain in the upper abdomen and epigastric area, with the location of the pain varying each time.
Although it is not constant, it can suddenly occur for a short period.
The pain is not unbearable.
Besides the gastrointestinal discomfort in the upper abdomen, I sometimes feel pain in the lower back near the kidneys, as well as in the waist and chest, but it is only mild pain.
I have already seen a gastroenterologist twice and had an ultrasound, but no issues were identified.
The doctor prescribed medication during my first visit, but there hasn't been much improvement.
I returned for a second visit yesterday, and the doctor adjusted my medication.
After taking the new medication today, I still do not feel any significant improvement.
I did have a bowel movement today, but it was still diarrhea.
I am unsure what this situation could be and why it is not improving.
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/28
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Based on the symptoms, it appears to be a gastrointestinal issue, and abdominal ultrasound examination does not provide significant diagnostic value for gastrointestinal problems.
It is recommended to take gastrointestinal medications along with a diet low in oil and dairy.
If there is still no improvement, further evaluation may be considered.
Reply Date: 2018/02/28
More Info
Understanding gastrointestinal discomfort can be quite complex, especially when symptoms like constipation, abdominal pain, and diarrhea manifest simultaneously. Your description indicates a range of gastrointestinal issues that could stem from various underlying causes. Let's break down the symptoms and potential solutions based on the information provided.
Symptoms Overview
1. Borborygmi (Bowel Sounds): The unusual sounds from your abdomen, especially after eating, can be attributed to increased intestinal activity or gas. This can occur due to dietary choices, stress, or gastrointestinal disorders.
2. Changes in Bowel Movements: The shift from normal, well-formed stools to soft, fragmented, or watery stools suggests a disruption in your digestive process. This could be due to several factors, including dietary changes, infections, or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
3. Abdominal Discomfort: The intermittent pain in various locations of your abdomen, along with a feeling of fullness or discomfort, can indicate several issues, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, or functional gastrointestinal disorders.
4. Kidney and Back Pain: While your primary symptoms are gastrointestinal, the pain in your lower back and sides could be referred pain from your gastrointestinal tract or could indicate a separate issue, such as a urinary tract infection or kidney stones.
Possible Causes
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Given the symptoms of alternating bowel habits and abdominal pain, IBS is a strong possibility. It is a functional disorder characterized by a combination of symptoms without any identifiable structural abnormalities.
2. Gastroenteritis: If there was a recent infection, it could lead to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, causing diarrhea and abdominal pain.
3. Dietary Factors: High intake of certain foods, particularly those high in fat, sugar, or artificial sweeteners, can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, food intolerances (like lactose or gluten intolerance) could also be contributing factors.
4. Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Stress can exacerbate symptoms of IBS and lead to changes in bowel habits.
5. Medication Side Effects: If you are taking medications for other conditions, some can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea or constipation.
Recommended Actions
1. Dietary Modifications: Keeping a food diary can help identify any potential triggers. A diet high in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, may help normalize bowel movements. Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial.
2. Probiotics: Incorporating probiotics into your diet can help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria, which may alleviate some symptoms.
3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can promote regular bowel movements and reduce stress, which can be beneficial for gastrointestinal health.
4. Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive behavioral therapy can help manage stress, which may improve your gastrointestinal symptoms.
5. Follow-Up with Healthcare Providers: Since you have already consulted with gastroenterologists, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or request further testing, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out any underlying conditions that may not have been identified through ultrasound or initial examinations.
6. Medication Review: Discuss with your doctor the medications you are currently taking to ensure they are not contributing to your symptoms. Adjustments may be necessary.
Conclusion
Gastrointestinal discomfort can arise from various factors, and understanding the interplay between diet, stress, and physical health is crucial for effective management. It is essential to continue working closely with your healthcare providers to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. If symptoms persist or worsen, further diagnostic testing may be warranted to ensure that no serious underlying conditions are present.
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