Abdominal Pain and Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

Abdominal issues and bowel problems?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing persistent abdominal pain lately, and I also have pain during bowel movements, sometimes accompanied by bleeding.
I have a slight loss of appetite and have been experiencing fever, although tests have ruled out influenza.
I also feel dizzy at times, and my body sometimes gets so cold that I shiver.
Which specialist should I see? Is it possible that I have colon cancer...?

Pao Pao Lao Di, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/11

Dr. Yu Mingchang reply Surgery

You can visit the outpatient clinic for consultation.

Reply Date: 2020/01/11

More Info

When experiencing abdominal pain accompanied by bowel issues, such as painful bowel movements, blood in the stool, loss of appetite, fever, dizziness, and chills, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist, a specialist in digestive system disorders, who can conduct a thorough evaluation and determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Your symptoms raise several concerns that need to be addressed. The presence of abdominal pain, especially if it is persistent or worsening, along with blood in the stool, could indicate various gastrointestinal issues. These may range from benign conditions like hemorrhoids or anal fissures to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulitis, or even colorectal cancer. The fact that you are experiencing fever and chills suggests that there may be an infectious component or an inflammatory process occurring in your body, which warrants immediate medical evaluation.

In addition to consulting a gastroenterologist, it is essential to undergo a comprehensive workup, which may include blood tests, stool tests, imaging studies (such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan), and possibly a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is particularly important in your case, as it allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum, enabling the physician to identify any abnormalities, take biopsies if necessary, and rule out colorectal cancer or other serious conditions.

It is also important to consider your overall health status, including any pre-existing conditions, medications you may be taking, and your family history of gastrointestinal diseases. These factors can significantly influence the diagnosis and management of your symptoms.

While the possibility of colorectal cancer can be concerning, especially with your symptoms, it is essential to remember that many other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Early detection and intervention are critical, so do not hesitate to seek medical attention. If your symptoms worsen or if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration, you should seek emergency care immediately.

In summary, given your symptoms of abdominal pain, painful bowel movements, blood in the stool, fever, dizziness, and chills, it is crucial to consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly improve your outcomes and address any underlying issues effectively. Please prioritize your health and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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