Bloating and Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Help

Prone to bloating and abnormal bowel movements?

Hello Doctor: I am 24 years old, and for the past 1-2 months, I have been experiencing frequent bloating after meals, along with audible bowel sounds, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Sometimes I feel a dull ache in my lower left or lower right abdomen, but it’s more of a pressure sensation (not painful when pressed).
In my daily life, I often burp, pass gas, and experience dry mouth and tongue.
My stools are typically thin and long (I feel they are not completely evacuated), and sometimes they sink to the bottom of the toilet immediately after a bowel movement.
Occasionally, I have diarrhea with no formed stool.
I might only have one day a week with a well-formed stool, but most of the time, they are wet and sticky (leaving residue in the toilet).
However, the color is consistently brown or yellow.
I also have nasal allergies, which cause frequent nasal congestion, and I wonder if this could indirectly affect my condition.
If I need to see a doctor, should I get a colonoscopy or an upper endoscopy, or would an ultrasound in the outpatient clinic suffice? Additionally, I have been seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for a month, and they mentioned that I have too much internal heat.
Should I trust traditional Chinese medicine, or would it be safer to consult a Western medicine doctor? Lastly, I have developed a blister-like growth near my belly button.
After researching online, I found concerning information, but the blister is not red and does not hurt.
Should I see a dermatologist or a gastroenterologist for this? Thank you for your response (I am really worried but unsure which specialty to consult… Thank you for your patience in reading this!).

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/10

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is likely irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with abnormal peristalsis.
You can consult a family physician or a gastroenterologist for stool occult blood testing and medication/dietary adjustments.
For issues related to the navel, you may see a dermatologist.

Reply Date: 2022/04/10

More Info

Bloating and digestive issues can be quite uncomfortable and concerning, especially when they persist for an extended period. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, changes in bowel habits, and a new concern regarding a bump near your belly button. Let's break down your symptoms and discuss when it might be appropriate to seek medical help.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Bloating and Gas: Bloating often results from the accumulation of gas in the digestive tract, which can be caused by various factors, including dietary choices, swallowing air, or digestive disorders. Foods that are high in fiber, such as beans, lentils, and certain vegetables, can contribute to gas production. Additionally, lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity can lead to similar symptoms.

2. Abdominal Pain: The discomfort you describe in your lower abdomen, particularly if it is not severe and does not worsen with pressure, may be related to gas or digestive irregularities. However, persistent or severe pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

3. Bowel Habits: The changes in your bowel movements, such as the presence of thin stools, inconsistency in stool formation, and occasional diarrhea, could indicate an underlying issue. Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even infections can cause such symptoms.

4. Dry Mouth and Thirst: These symptoms could be related to dehydration or could indicate a more systemic issue, especially if they persist.

5. Nasal Congestion: While nasal congestion is typically unrelated to gastrointestinal issues, it can affect your overall comfort and may lead to swallowing air, which can contribute to bloating.

6. Bump Near the Belly Button: The appearance of a bump or blister-like structure near your navel should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. While it may not be painful or red, any new skin lesion warrants a professional assessment to rule out any potential issues.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given the complexity and persistence of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Here are some guidelines on when to see a doctor:
- Persistent Symptoms: If your bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort continue for more than a few weeks, or if they worsen, it is time to consult a healthcare provider.

- Severe Pain: If you experience severe abdominal pain, especially if it is sudden or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or changes in consciousness, seek immediate medical attention.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: Significant changes in your bowel habits, such as prolonged diarrhea or constipation, should be evaluated.

- Skin Changes: Any new or changing skin lesions, especially those that do not resolve, should be assessed by a dermatologist.

Diagnostic Approaches
Regarding your question about diagnostic tests, the choice between a colonoscopy, endoscopy, or ultrasound depends on your specific symptoms and the initial evaluation by your healthcare provider. Here’s a brief overview:
- Colonoscopy: This test is typically recommended if there are concerns about the lower gastrointestinal tract, especially with changes in bowel habits or abdominal pain.

- Endoscopy: This is more appropriate if there are symptoms suggesting upper gastrointestinal issues, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

- Ultrasound: This imaging test can help evaluate abdominal organs and may be useful if there are concerns about gallbladder disease, liver issues, or other abdominal abnormalities.

Integrating Traditional and Western Medicine
You mentioned seeing a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner who suggested that your symptoms are due to "excess heat." While TCM can provide valuable insights and treatment options, it is essential to ensure that any underlying medical conditions are not overlooked. It may be beneficial to pursue a comprehensive evaluation with a Western medicine provider, especially if your symptoms persist despite TCM treatment.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. It is advisable to start with a visit to a primary care physician or a gastroenterologist, who can guide you through the necessary tests and determine the best course of action. Additionally, the bump near your belly button should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Remember, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing occasional bloating in my stomach, and sometimes when I eat, I also feel a sense of bloating along with some soreness in my back, but it goes away after a while. This sensation doesn't occur frequently. I have visited a cli...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is advisable to keep medications prepared in advance, pay attention to diet and daily routines, take medication when feeling unwell or when necessary, and record the reactions for future medical reference.

Understanding Abdominal Bloating: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent abdominal bloating over the past few months, and it has even led to abdominal pain, especially during my menstrual period last month. For the first two days, I had severe bloating (my abdomen was very distended). I would like to kno...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You can see a gastroenterologist or a family medicine physician; it should be a digestive motility issue, so there is no need to worry.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor. My condition is as follows: Yesterday I had stomach pain and went to the bathroom 3 to 4 times with watery stools. After having breakfast this morning, I felt the urge to go to the bathroom again, and what I passed was like muddy stool. After that, I started experi...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is likely acute gastroenteritis, which generally requires medication. You may start by fasting for one or two meals, then gradually introduce a low-fat, low-dairy, and bland diet, while also ensuring adequate hydration and electrolyte replenishment. If symptoms persist, please...

Understanding Bloating and Constipation: When to Seek Further Medical Help

I apologize for the inconvenience, but I have been experiencing constipation and bloating for the past month. After visiting a doctor, I was prescribed a digestive aid to take before meals and a stool softener to take at bedtime. I was able to have a bowel movement after three da...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
This is simply a problem of constipation. Eating more fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of water should help. The use of laxatives can indeed lead to abdominal pain and urgency. At this age, it is advisable to avoid relying on medication as much as possible.