Abdominal Discomfort: When to See a Gastroenterologist

Gastrointestinal discomfort

I just turned 18 years old.
I do not smoke or drink alcohol, but I tend to stay up late, exercise little, and sit for long periods.
I hope this information helps you in your assessment.
Hello, doctor.
Recently, I have been experiencing abdominal tenderness at night.
Since I have light sleep, sometimes when my family gets up to use the bathroom, it wakes me up.
When I turn over, I notice pain in my abdomen.
Pressing on it with my hand does not cause significant pain.
In the mornings, I sometimes feel the same way.
After having breakfast and having a bowel movement, it usually feels better.
The location of the pain is somewhat in the lower middle area.
Recently, my bowel movements have not been well-formed and are sometimes looser.
I also experience frequent flatulence.
Do you think I need to see a gastroenterologist? I apologize for asking more questions.
I noticed that in Q&A sessions, doctors often recommend patients to undergo a fecal occult blood test, but I found on Google that many people say the accuracy is low and it is basically not useful.
I would like to ask for your professional opinion on this.
Also, is there a significant difference between the test strips sold at clinics and the results from tests conducted at hospitals? Thank you for taking the time to read this.
I appreciate your effort!

Yīshēng nín hǎo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/04

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
You may be experiencing symptoms of constipation.
Please avoid heavy pressure and you can continue to observe your condition.
The occult blood test using immunological methods is much more accurate and sensitive than traditional chemical methods, and the clinic should have it available.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2018/05/04

More Info

When it comes to abdominal discomfort, especially in young adults like yourself, it's essential to pay attention to the symptoms and understand when to seek medical advice. Based on your description, you are experiencing abdominal tenderness, particularly at night, and changes in your bowel habits, including loose stools and increased flatulence. These symptoms can be indicative of various gastrointestinal issues, and while they may not always signal a severe condition, they warrant further evaluation.

Firstly, the fact that you experience pain when you exert pressure on your abdomen or when you move in bed suggests that there may be some underlying irritation or inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract. This could be due to several factors, including dietary habits, stress, or even lifestyle choices such as lack of exercise and prolonged sitting. It’s important to consider that your body is still developing, and changes in your diet or routine can significantly impact your digestive health.

Regarding your bowel movements, the presence of loose stools and the absence of well-formed stools can indicate a few possibilities. It could be related to dietary choices, such as increased consumption of high-fiber foods or dairy products, which can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, stress and anxiety can also manifest physically, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
You mentioned that you are concerned about the accuracy of stool tests for occult blood, which is a common screening tool for gastrointestinal bleeding. While it is true that no test is perfect, the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is still a valuable tool in detecting hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of conditions like polyps or colorectal cancer. The accuracy of these tests can vary based on several factors, including the method used and the timing of the test. Tests conducted in a clinical setting are generally more reliable than at-home tests, as they are performed under controlled conditions and analyzed by professionals.

Given your symptoms and concerns, it would be advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system, and they can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms. During your visit, the doctor may recommend further tests, such as blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies, to rule out any significant underlying issues. They may also discuss your dietary habits and lifestyle choices to identify any potential triggers for your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may not necessarily indicate a severe condition, they are significant enough to warrant a visit to a gastroenterologist. Early intervention can help prevent more serious issues down the line and improve your overall quality of life. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially those related to the digestive system. Taking proactive steps now can lead to better health outcomes in the future.

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