Abdominal Bloating and Throat Issues: Which Specialist to See?

For abdominal bloating and throat issues, you should consult a gastroenterologist for the abdominal symptoms and an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) for the throat problems?

Hello, doctor.

1.
For the past couple of months, I have been experiencing bloating and significant belching after meals.
This week, I have also had cold symptoms, including a runny nose and sore throat.
The nasal congestion has improved, but my throat remains very dry and painful.
The bloating and belching have worsened, and I sometimes feel nauseous.
Despite not changing my diet in the last five days, I have had three instances of dark green stools, and my bowel movements have been less regular, leaving me with a feeling of incomplete evacuation.
Could this possibly indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
2.
I underwent surgery for an anal abscess at the end of September last year, and since then, I have noticed some intestinal fluid at the anal area, occasionally mixed with a small amount of stool, which is quite distressing.
Which specialist should I consult? I visited a gastroenterologist who suggested seeing a colorectal surgeon, but the colorectal surgeon indicated it might be a gastrointestinal issue.
3.
I had my tonsils removed in the summer of 2019 due to chronic tonsillitis, and the following summer, I had an anal abscess.
Now, I am experiencing significant gastrointestinal discomfort, and sometimes I develop sores in my mouth that take one to two weeks to heal after biting them.
Given these ongoing issues, could this possibly be indicative of Crohn's disease?

Jason, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/11

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The initial assessment suggests that it is likely a peristaltic digestion issue.
Further discussion with the attending physician regarding treatment is recommended, along with patient cooperation for management, and continued follow-up is advised.

Reply Date: 2021/03/11

More Info

When dealing with abdominal bloating and throat issues, it is essential to approach the situation systematically to identify the underlying causes and determine the appropriate specialist to consult. Based on your symptoms, let's break down the concerns and provide guidance on how to proceed.

1. Abdominal Bloating and Belching: The symptoms of bloating and excessive belching after meals can be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), food intolerances, or even functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Given that you also mentioned experiencing nausea and changes in bowel habits (specifically, the presence of dark green stools), it is crucial to consider dietary factors, as well as the possibility of an underlying condition affecting your digestive system. The dark green stools could be related to the consumption of certain foods or could indicate bile that has not been fully processed, which can occur in cases of rapid transit through the intestines.

2. Throat Symptoms: The dry and painful throat, especially following a cold, could be a residual effect of the viral infection. However, if the throat pain persists, it may be worth considering whether it is related to acid reflux, as stomach acid can irritate the throat and lead to discomfort. This is particularly relevant if you are experiencing bloating and belching, which can accompany GERD.

3. Post-Surgical Concerns: Regarding your history of anal abscess surgery and the ongoing issue with anal discharge, it is understandable that this would be a source of concern. If the gastroenterologist has suggested seeing a colorectal surgeon, it may be beneficial to follow that recommendation. Colorectal surgeons specialize in conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract, including issues related to the anus and rectum. They can assess whether the discharge is a result of the previous surgery or if there is another underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

4. Potential Crohn's Disease: Your history of chronic tonsillitis, anal abscess, and current gastrointestinal symptoms raises the question of whether you might have a condition like Crohn's disease, which is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn's can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract and can lead to a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and complications such as fistulas or abscesses. The mouth sores you mentioned could also be a manifestation of IBD, as oral ulcers are not uncommon in these conditions. If you suspect Crohn's disease, it would be prudent to consult a gastroenterologist who specializes in IBD for further evaluation, which may include imaging studies or endoscopic procedures.

Recommendations:
- Consult a Gastroenterologist: Given your symptoms of bloating, belching, and changes in bowel habits, a gastroenterologist is the appropriate specialist to evaluate your gastrointestinal health. They can perform necessary tests, such as an upper endoscopy or colonoscopy, to assess for conditions like GERD, IBS, or IBD.

- Follow Up with a Colorectal Surgeon: For the anal discharge issue, it is advisable to see a colorectal surgeon. They can evaluate whether there are any complications from your previous surgery or if there is a new issue that needs to be addressed.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including dietary habits, bowel movements, and any other changes in your health. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare providers in making an accurate diagnosis.

- Consider Dietary Adjustments: While waiting for your appointments, consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential food intolerances or triggers that may be contributing to your bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort.

In conclusion, addressing your symptoms requires a multi-faceted approach involving both gastroenterology and colorectal surgery. By consulting the appropriate specialists, you can work towards a clearer understanding of your health issues and develop an effective treatment plan.

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