Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Loved One

Abdominal bloating and pain?

My father is 58 years old.
He usually smokes and drinks alcohol, and often doesn't finish his meals, eating in several portions.
Since I started visiting him last year, I've noticed he has been gradually losing weight because he feels full after eating just a little, but he still manages to have at least three meals a day.
In early August of this year, he suddenly lost his appetite and can only eat half a bowl of porridge daily; he also feels bloated and uncomfortable, and has been experiencing diarrhea.
In September, he saw a doctor who diagnosed him with gastroenteritis, but the medication hasn't been effective, and he experiences abdominal pain daily.
When I visited him yesterday, I was shocked to see that he has become extremely thin over the past two months.
He tried to quit drinking, but the abdominal pain became more severe; however, drinking alcohol seems to provide some temporary relief.
He is afraid of the cost of medical treatment, so he endures the pain and doesn't dare to tell us.
Currently, he experiences abdominal pain several times a day, and the pain has become more widespread, with cramping sensations around the entire abdomen (last night, he felt a sharp pain when pressing on the lower right abdomen).
He has difficulty eating due to bloating and pain, suffers from indigestion, occasional constipation, and feels weak with declining energy and poor immunity; he coughs easily when exposed to the wind.
My father has been in pain for a long time, and the areas affected are extensive.
I'm unsure which specialist he should see.
Should he undergo a colonoscopy, or is there a broader ultrasound examination that can be performed?

Bao0, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/15

Dr. Lin Wuxuan reply Internal Medicine

Hello! It is recommended to first visit the family medicine department or the gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient clinic at the hospital.
After evaluation by a physician, further examinations and treatments can be arranged.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2022/10/15

More Info

When it comes to understanding abdominal pain, especially in a loved one like your father, it's crucial to recognize the signs that indicate when medical help is necessary. Given your father's symptoms—significant weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, changes in appetite, and digestive issues—it's essential to take these concerns seriously and seek appropriate medical evaluation.

Your father's history of smoking and drinking, combined with his recent drastic weight loss and ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms, raises several potential health concerns. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to various gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, pancreatitis, and liver disease, which could explain his symptoms. Additionally, his sudden loss of appetite and the fact that he feels full after eating very little could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as a gastrointestinal obstruction or malignancy.

The symptoms you describe, including abdominal pain that has become more widespread, episodes of diarrhea, and feelings of bloating, suggest that a thorough evaluation is necessary. While the initial diagnosis of gastroenteritis may have been appropriate, the persistence and worsening of symptoms indicate that further investigation is warranted.
In terms of what to do next, here are some recommendations:
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: Given the nature of your father's symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist. This specialist can provide a more in-depth evaluation of his gastrointestinal health and may recommend further diagnostic tests.

2. Diagnostic Testing: A colonoscopy is indeed a valuable tool for examining the colon and rectum, especially considering your father's symptoms of abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Additionally, a comprehensive abdominal ultrasound can help visualize the organs in the abdomen and identify any abnormalities such as masses, fluid collections, or signs of inflammation.

3. Blood Tests: Comprehensive blood work can provide insights into liver function, kidney function, and overall health. Tests for inflammatory markers, liver enzymes, and complete blood counts can help identify underlying issues.

4. Addressing Alcohol Use: If your father is struggling to quit drinking, it may be beneficial to seek support for alcohol cessation. Alcohol can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and contribute to malnutrition, which can further complicate his health.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your father's symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of his abdominal pain, any changes in bowel habits, and his overall energy levels. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing his condition.

6. Emergency Care: If your father experiences severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, or any other alarming symptoms, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a serious condition that requires prompt intervention.

In conclusion, your father's ongoing abdominal pain and associated symptoms warrant a thorough medical evaluation. By consulting a gastroenterologist and pursuing appropriate diagnostic testing, you can help ensure that he receives the care he needs. It's essential to advocate for his health, especially given the concerning changes in his weight and appetite. Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes, so don't hesitate to seek help.

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