Digestive Issues: Symptoms and Concerns After Endoscopy - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Bowel issues


The doctor performed an endoscopy yesterday and found mild inflammation and ulcers.
My stomach feels strange now; could it be because the test for Helicobacter pylori made me feel like the endoscope was pulling in my stomach? Also, if it were colon cancer, would the symptoms come and go? Since January 7th, I have experienced symptoms (loss of appetite, dizziness, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain in the morning that eases after bowel movements, and a dull ache on the right side of my abdomen) that have recurred three times, each episode lasting about ten days, although I have had periods of normalcy during this time.
If I experience another episode, what should I consider doing? I had a stool occult blood test in January that was normal.

Wang Daming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/28

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


1.
After the gastroscopy, there may be slight discomfort due to air insufflation, which is unrelated to the Helicobacter pylori test.
2.
This is likely a symptom of gastroenteritis; a light diet low in oil, dairy, and irritants is recommended, and you may also consider consulting a gastroenterologist.

Reply Date: 2019/03/28

More Info


Understanding digestive issues, especially after undergoing an endoscopy, can be quite concerning. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced mild inflammation and ulcers in your stomach, which can indeed cause discomfort and unusual sensations. It is not uncommon for patients to feel some irritation or discomfort after an endoscopic procedure, as the process can temporarily disturb the lining of the stomach. The sensation of your stomach feeling "weird" could be attributed to this irritation, especially if the endoscopy involved biopsies or if the doctor had to manipulate the stomach tissue to get a clear view.

Regarding your concern about Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), if the biopsy results indicated that no H. pylori was found, it suggests that this bacterium is not contributing to your symptoms at this time. H. pylori is known to cause chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, so its absence is a positive sign. However, if you continue to experience symptoms, it may be worth discussing with your doctor whether further testing or treatment is necessary.

Your symptoms of loss of appetite, dizziness, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a feeling of heaviness on the right side could be indicative of several conditions. While these symptoms can be associated with gastrointestinal issues, they are not specific to any one condition, including colorectal cancer. It is important to note that colorectal cancer typically presents with more persistent symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, or significant weight loss. The intermittent nature of your symptoms, along with periods of normalcy, may suggest a functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), rather than a malignancy.

However, given your history and the recurrence of these symptoms, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further investigations, such as imaging studies or additional blood tests, to rule out any serious conditions. Since you mentioned having a normal fecal occult blood test in January, this is reassuring, as it suggests that there is no significant bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract at that time.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Your doctor may suggest dietary modifications, medications to manage symptoms, or even a repeat endoscopy if they suspect any underlying issues that need further evaluation. Keeping a symptom diary can also be helpful in identifying triggers or patterns in your symptoms, which can aid your healthcare provider in making a more accurate diagnosis.

In summary, while your recent endoscopy findings indicate some inflammation and ulcers, the absence of H. pylori is a positive aspect. Your symptoms, while concerning, may not necessarily indicate a serious condition like colorectal cancer, especially given their intermittent nature. However, close monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are essential to ensure that any potential issues are addressed in a timely manner.

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