Abdominal Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Urologist

Abdominal issues!!

Recently, I had a urinary tract infection, and after recovering, I've been experiencing occasional dull and sharp pain on both sides of my lower abdomen, just below the navel.
This discomfort is sometimes accompanied by bloating, which feels like gas is pressing against nearby organs.
Occasionally, I also experience constipation or diarrhea, and it coincides with my menstrual period.
When I strain during constipation, I feel pain on both sides of my lower abdomen.
I do not have symptoms like frequent urination, blood in urine, or fever, but my entire lower abdomen feels bloated and uncomfortable, with symptoms fluctuating in intensity.

1.
The painful areas are located in the indented parts of both sides of the pelvis, and sometimes parallel to the navel on both sides.
2.
I am concerned that there might be a bacterial infection affecting my kidneys, but the symptoms leave me uncertain whether to consult a urologist or a gastroenterologist.
3.
This is not the type of abdominal pain associated with menstrual cramps.

Qiu Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/19

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Please seek medical attention for an examination.

Reply Date: 2020/05/19

More Info

When it comes to abdominal pain, particularly in the context of your recent urinary tract infection (UTI) and the symptoms you're experiencing now, it can be quite challenging to determine the exact cause and which specialist to consult. Given your description of the pain being located in the lower abdomen, particularly on both sides of the navel, and the accompanying symptoms of bloating, occasional constipation, and diarrhea, there are several potential causes that could be explored.

Firstly, the location of your pain is significant. The lower abdomen houses various organs, including parts of the intestines, the bladder, and in women, the reproductive organs. The fact that you have experienced a UTI may suggest that your urinary tract is still sensitive or that there could be residual effects from the infection. However, since you are not experiencing symptoms like frequent urination, blood in urine, or fever, it may be less likely that your kidneys are currently infected.

The symptoms of bloating and alternating constipation and diarrhea could indicate a gastrointestinal issue, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. IBS can often be triggered or exacerbated by stress, dietary changes, or infections. Given that you mentioned the pain sometimes feels like gas is pressing on nearby organs, this could further support the possibility of a gastrointestinal origin.

In terms of which specialist to see, it would be advisable to start with a gastroenterologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a detailed history and physical examination, and may recommend tests such as blood work, imaging studies, or endoscopic procedures to assess your gastrointestinal tract. If they determine that your symptoms are not related to the gastrointestinal system, they can then refer you to a urologist if necessary.

Additionally, since you mentioned that the pain is sometimes exacerbated during your menstrual period, it could also be beneficial to consult a gynecologist. Conditions such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts can cause similar symptoms and may require evaluation by a specialist in women's health.

It's important to keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and any associated factors (like diet or stress levels). This information will be invaluable to your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.

In summary, given your symptoms, starting with a gastroenterologist seems to be the most appropriate course of action. They can help rule out any gastrointestinal issues and guide you on the next steps. If necessary, they can refer you to a urologist or gynecologist based on their findings. Remember, abdominal pain can arise from a multitude of causes, and a thorough evaluation is key to identifying the underlying issue and determining the best treatment plan.

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