Digestive Issues: Insights on Abdominal Pain and Bowel Changes

Bowel issues

Hello Dr.
Chen: I am 19 years old.
In January of this year, I experienced occasional bloating and discomfort in my upper left abdomen, and after undergoing an endoscopy, I was diagnosed with mild gastric and duodenal ulcers, with no Helicobacter pylori detected in my stomach.
I did not take any medication, but the discomfort in my upper left abdomen has significantly improved.
However, around early March, I began to feel occasional mild pain in my upper right abdomen, and sometimes slight pain in my lower right and lower left abdomen, although the pain is not very intense.
My stool seems to have more mucus compared to before, but it is not present every time I have a bowel movement.
The stool varies in thickness, sometimes being coarse and sometimes fine, with a color that is mostly yellow-brown and not significantly different from before.
However, the consistency has become looser, and it breaks apart easily after passing.
When I lightly tap my lower right abdomen, I feel some bloating.
Recently, I have noticed an increase in the frequency of flatulence.
I do not exercise much, have a normal diet, rarely eat grilled or fried foods, and do not drink soft drinks.
My appetite is good, and I consume a decent amount of fruits and vegetables daily.
My weight has been stable at around 64 kg.
Could you please advise me on what this issue might be? Do I need to undergo any examinations? Thank you, doctor!

Wang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/10

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
It is likely just an abnormality in gastrointestinal motility.
If you are feeling very uncomfortable, you may take medication and consider a stool occult blood test.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2018/04/10

More Info

Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and increased mucus in your stool. Given your history of mild gastric and duodenal ulcers, as well as the recent onset of right upper and lower abdominal discomfort, it is important to consider several potential underlying issues.

Firstly, the presence of abdominal pain in different quadrants can indicate various gastrointestinal conditions. The right upper quadrant pain could be related to issues with the liver, gallbladder, or even the duodenum, especially since you have a history of ulcers. The right lower quadrant pain could suggest appendicitis, although the pain would typically be more severe and accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or nausea. However, given your age and the mild nature of your symptoms, it is less likely to be a surgical emergency at this point.

The changes in your bowel movements, particularly the increased mucus and variability in stool consistency, could be indicative of several conditions. Increased mucus in the stool can occur in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or infections. IBS is particularly common in young adults and can be triggered by stress, dietary changes, or gastrointestinal infections. It is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, which can include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both.

Your description of softer, more easily disintegrating stools could also suggest a change in your gut motility or the presence of a mild infection or inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It is good to hear that you maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as this can help regulate bowel function. However, if you are experiencing increased gas and bloating, it may be worth evaluating your fiber intake and considering whether certain foods might be contributing to these symptoms. Foods high in fermentable fibers, such as beans, lentils, and certain fruits, can sometimes lead to increased gas production.

Given your symptoms and history, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation. A thorough examination, including a detailed history and possibly imaging studies or laboratory tests, may be warranted to rule out any serious conditions. Additionally, if your symptoms persist or worsen, a referral to a gastroenterologist may be beneficial for more specialized care.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to benign conditions such as IBS, it is essential to seek medical advice to ensure that there are no underlying serious issues. Keeping a symptom diary, noting when your symptoms occur, what you eat, and any associated factors can also be helpful for your healthcare provider in making a diagnosis. Don't hesitate to reach out for medical attention, especially if you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as significant pain, changes in appetite, or weight loss.

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