Should You Get a Colonoscopy for Chronic Abdominal Bloating?

Q: Should You Get a Colonoscopy for Chronic Abdominal Bloating?

Hello： This may require clinical judgment from a physician. <br>The location of your abdominal pain needs to be determined as to whether it is related to the large intestine or the small intestine. <br>If it is a small intestine issue, a colonoscopy may not be necessary. <br>It i

Abdominal bloating

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing unexplained abdominal bloating for the past two to three years.
The doctor suspects that it may be caused by intestinal adhesions from abdominal surgery I had as a child.
I have undergone fecal occult blood tests last year and this year, both of which were negative.
My question is, in general, should I still undergo a colonoscopy in this situation? Thank you.

Xiao Zhi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/06

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: This may require clinical judgment from a physician.
The location of your abdominal pain needs to be determined as to whether it is related to the large intestine or the small intestine.
If it is a small intestine issue, a colonoscopy may not be necessary.
It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation.
It is recommended to increase your fluid intake and consume fruits and vegetables.
Try to cut vegetables into smaller pieces to minimize digestive impact.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/04/06

More Info

Chronic abdominal bloating can be a frustrating and uncomfortable symptom that many individuals experience. In your case, given your history of abdominal surgery and the suspicion of adhesions, it is understandable that you are concerned about the underlying causes of your symptoms. While your negative fecal occult blood tests are reassuring, they do not completely rule out the need for further investigation, such as a colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a physician to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer, polyps, and other gastrointestinal disorders. In your situation, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to proceed with a colonoscopy:
1. Duration and Severity of Symptoms: Chronic bloating that persists over a period of years, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, warrants further investigation. Even if your bloating is your only symptom, the chronic nature of it can be a reason to consider a colonoscopy.

2. History of Abdominal Surgery: Previous abdominal surgeries can lead to the formation of adhesions, which may cause bowel obstruction or other gastrointestinal issues. If your physician suspects that adhesions are contributing to your bloating, a colonoscopy may help visualize the colon and rule out any other potential complications.

3. Exclusion of Serious Conditions: While your fecal occult blood tests have returned negative, it is essential to rule out any serious conditions that may not present with overt symptoms. A colonoscopy can help identify or rule out conditions such as colorectal cancer, especially if you have risk factors or a family history of gastrointestinal diseases.

4. Response to Treatment: If you have tried dietary modifications, medications, or other treatments without relief, this may indicate that the underlying cause of your bloating is not being addressed. A colonoscopy could provide valuable insights into the health of your colon and help guide further treatment options.

5. Consultation with a Gastroenterologist: It is advisable to discuss your symptoms and concerns with a gastroenterologist. They can evaluate your medical history, perform a physical examination, and determine whether a colonoscopy is necessary based on your specific situation.

In summary, while your negative fecal occult blood tests are a positive sign, the chronic nature of your abdominal bloating, combined with your surgical history, suggests that further evaluation may be warranted. A colonoscopy can provide critical information about the health of your colon and help identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to your symptoms. Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, who can assess your individual risk factors and symptoms to determine the most appropriate course of action.

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