Lower Abdominal Pain and Red Spots Found During Colonoscopy

Lower abdominal pain, colonoscopy revealed red spots?

Hello doctor, I am a male and have been experiencing lower abdominal pain for a long time, about two months.
The pain is not severe, more of a dull ache, but it occurs almost every day.
Yesterday, I had a colonoscopy, and the doctor said everything was fine.
However, during the procedure, I noticed a red spot in my intestine, about 1 cm in size and triangular in shape.
It was not just a slight redness from inflammation; it was a clearly visible red spot.
The doctor did not mention it, and I am worried that he might have missed it.
I am still experiencing lower abdominal pain.
I would like to know if that red spot is a normal finding or if it could be bleeding due to taking laxatives too aggressively.
If that is the case, I am still in pain; which specialist should I see? Thank you for your help.

Wayne, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/18

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Please discuss directly with the attending physician.

Reply Date: 2019/08/18

More Info

Lower abdominal pain can be a complex issue, especially when accompanied by findings from a colonoscopy. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing persistent dull pain in your lower abdomen for about two months, which is concerning enough to warrant further investigation. The fact that you had a colonoscopy and the doctor reported no significant issues is a positive sign, but your observation of a distinct red spot in your colon raises questions that deserve attention.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that the gastrointestinal tract can exhibit various abnormalities, some of which may not be immediately concerning while others could indicate underlying issues. The red spot you observed could potentially be a benign finding, such as a small polyp or a vascular lesion. However, without a thorough examination and possibly a biopsy, it is difficult to ascertain the nature of this spot. It’s also worth noting that certain medications, including laxatives, can sometimes cause irritation or minor bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which might explain the appearance of a red spot.

Regarding your ongoing abdominal pain, it is essential to consider several factors. Since the pain is persistent and has not improved following the colonoscopy, it may be worthwhile to explore other potential causes. These could include functional gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause chronic abdominal discomfort without any identifiable structural abnormalities. Additionally, conditions affecting other organs in the abdominal cavity, such as the bladder, kidneys, or reproductive organs, could also manifest as lower abdominal pain.

Given your symptoms and the findings from the colonoscopy, I recommend the following steps:
1. Follow-Up with Your Gastroenterologist: Since you have concerns about the red spot and ongoing pain, it is crucial to communicate these issues to your gastroenterologist. They may recommend further imaging studies, such as a CT scan, or even a repeat colonoscopy if deemed necessary.

2. Consider Other Specialists: If your gastroenterologist rules out gastrointestinal causes, you may need to consult other specialists. A urologist can evaluate potential bladder or kidney issues, while a gynecologist can assess any reproductive health concerns, especially if you have any related symptoms.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including the nature of the pain, any changes in bowel habits, and any other associated symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or changes in appetite. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare providers in determining the next steps.

4. Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications: Sometimes, dietary changes can help alleviate symptoms. Consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential triggers for your abdominal pain. Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding known irritants (such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods) may also be beneficial.

5. Mental Health Considerations: Chronic pain can sometimes be exacerbated by stress and anxiety. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or counseling may help improve your overall well-being.

In summary, while the colonoscopy results were reassuring, your ongoing symptoms warrant further investigation. The red spot you observed could be benign, but it is essential to address your concerns with your healthcare provider. By taking proactive steps and seeking appropriate follow-up care, you can work towards finding relief from your symptoms and ensuring your health is monitored effectively.

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