Which Specialist to Consult for Abdominal Issues After Surgery?

For abdominal issues, you should consult a gastroenterologist?

Hello, doctor.
I recently underwent a circumcision surgery, and it has been exactly one month since the procedure.
Before the surgery, everything was normal, and the doctor checked the wound and found no issues.
However, I experienced frequent urination during this time, but urine tests came back normal.
I have been on antibiotics for nearly 12 days, taking two types: one green and one orange.
In the past two weeks, I have felt something unusual in my lower right abdomen, which feels different from my usual state.
There is no pain when pressing on it, but I occasionally feel nauseous and have chills, along with a tingling sensation in my hands.
I have not had a fever.
Last week, I had a bout of gastroenteritis.
I would like to ask a few questions: 1.
Which specialties should I consult for my current situation? 2.
Can taking antibiotics for an extended period lead to these symptoms? 3.
Given my recent gastroenteritis, I have been taking digestive and intestinal health supplements for the past two weeks; could this also be contributing to my symptoms?

tiyero, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/02

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is recommended to return to the urology department for a follow-up.
If necessary, then seek care from the gastroenterology department.

Reply Date: 2019/03/02

More Info

After undergoing surgery, particularly in the abdominal area, it is not uncommon for patients to experience a range of symptoms and concerns. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some discomfort in your right lower abdomen, occasional nausea, chills, and a general feeling of unease. Here’s a breakdown of your questions and some recommendations based on medical knowledge.

1. Which Specialist to Consult?
Given your recent surgery and the symptoms you are experiencing, it would be prudent to consult a gastroenterologist first. They specialize in digestive system disorders and can evaluate your gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea and any digestive issues stemming from your recent gastrointestinal inflammation. Additionally, if your symptoms persist or worsen, a general surgeon may also be necessary to rule out any complications related to your surgery, such as infection or adhesions.

2. Can Prolonged Antibiotic Use Cause These Symptoms?
Yes, taking antibiotics for an extended period can lead to various side effects. Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your gut, potentially leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort. This disruption can also result in conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhea or even Clostridium difficile infection, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. If you suspect that your symptoms are related to antibiotic use, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

3. Impact of Digestive Supplements Post-Gastroenteritis:
While digestive aids and probiotics can be beneficial for restoring gut health after gastrointestinal disturbances, they can also cause side effects in some individuals, particularly if taken in excess or if the body is still sensitive post-infection. If you have recently had gastroenteritis, your digestive system may still be recovering, and introducing supplements too soon could exacerbate feelings of nausea or discomfort. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional regarding the timing and type of supplements you are taking.

Additional Considerations:
- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.

- Hydration and Diet: Ensure you are staying well-hydrated, especially after experiencing gastrointestinal issues. A bland diet may help ease your symptoms until you feel better.

- Follow-Up Care: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as fever, severe pain, or changes in bowel habits, seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious condition requiring immediate intervention.

In conclusion, it is essential to address your symptoms with the appropriate specialists to ensure a thorough evaluation and management plan. Your health and comfort are paramount, and seeking timely medical advice can help alleviate your concerns and improve your recovery process.

Similar Q&A

Which Specialist to See for Abdominal Pain and Back Issues?

Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing significant soreness in my lower back and abdomen, along with frequent feelings of nausea and dizziness. Additionally, I have a problem with numbness on the right side of my abdomen (the boundary is quite clear from the navel to the...

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine
It is recommended to first visit the gastroenterology and hepatology clinic for evaluation to rule out any issues, and then proceed to the orthopedic clinic to confirm whether the symptoms are caused by a coccyx injury. Thank you.

Finding the Right Specialist for Complex Abdominal Symptoms

My mother is currently 73 years old and has diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension, which she manages with regular doctor visits and medication. This year, she has experienced discomfort in two areas of her body. The first issue is that she often feels tightness on both sides ...

Dr. Xiao Jingqin reply Internal Medicine
The patient's primary pain is located in the lower abdomen, and it worsens with walking. They also experience loss of appetite and a tendency to feel bloated, which may not necessarily indicate a gastric issue. If we narrow down the problem to the lower abdomen, potentially ...

Which Specialist Should I See for My Lower Abdominal Pain?

Hello, doctor. I have a condition that I've had for a while. Occasionally, I experience a slight pain in my lower left abdomen, but since the pain doesn't last long, I haven't paid much attention to it. Should I see a urologist or which specialist should I consult?

Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended that you first consult a gastroenterologist, and then the physician may refer you to a urologist based on the situation.

Understanding Rectal Surgery: Which Specialist Should You Consult?

Hello, I would like to check if I have roundworms in my abdomen. I read in a forum that I should see a colorectal surgeon, but I can't find a colorectal department to make an appointment, nor can I find which doctor to see. Could you please tell me which department colorecta...

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery
Hello: Due to garbled text in the key terms of the question, I am unable to respond. Please forgive me. Generally, colorectal surgery is an independent specialty, but in some hospitals, it falls under the department of surgery or gastroenterology.