Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns

Hello： Your issue may need to be addressed by first resolving constipation or fecal impaction. <br>As for whether there is intestinal inflammation or a tumor, a clinical physician may need to evaluate the possibility of inflammation or a tumor after treating the constipation, and

Lower abdominal discomfort or pain?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you about a situation I've been experiencing.
After a bowel movement (which was somewhat loose), I suddenly had abdominal pain and diarrhea about an hour later.
Since then, I've had a persistent dull pain in my abdomen for about two weeks, particularly around the navel area.
I have a history of constipation, with bowel movements occurring every 2-4 days, sometimes with soft stools and mild diarrhea, but it has recently improved to once every two days.
After the pain started, I began drinking more water and eating more vegetables, including green juice.
Currently, I have bowel movements about once every 1-2 days, sometimes with soft stools, but I also pass larger stools that appear somewhat dry and cracked, without any blood present.
During these two weeks of pain, I have not experienced diarrhea, but I still occasionally feel dull pain.
Last year, I had a similar dull pain for a period that suddenly resolved.
At that time, a fecal occult blood test was negative, but an X-ray indicated that there was a lot of stool in my abdomen.
Now, after about two weeks of dull pain returning, I feel much better, but there is still slight tenderness near the navel, and when lying down, I feel some dullness along with noticeable bowel sounds and flatulence, indicating that my intestines are moving.
I would like to know if this could be intestinal inflammation or a tumor (which I am quite concerned about).

Mr. Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/02

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Your issue may need to be addressed by first resolving constipation or fecal impaction.
As for whether there is intestinal inflammation or a tumor, a clinical physician may need to evaluate the possibility of inflammation or a tumor after treating the constipation, and then arrange for appropriate examinations.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2023/01/02

More Info

Understanding lower abdominal discomfort can be quite complex, as it can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing persistent dull pain around your navel area for about two weeks, following an episode of soft stools and subsequent diarrhea. You also mentioned a history of constipation and recent dietary changes aimed at improving your bowel habits.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Given your history of constipation and recent changes in bowel habits, it is possible that you are experiencing a functional gastrointestinal disorder. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. The fact that you have had episodes of both constipation and diarrhea aligns with this possibility.

2. Inflammation: The persistent dull pain you are experiencing could also be indicative of an inflammatory condition such as diverticulitis or colitis. Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected, often leading to abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and sometimes fever. Colitis, which is inflammation of the colon, can also cause similar symptoms.

3. Dietary Factors: Your recent increase in water and fiber intake is generally beneficial for bowel health, but sudden changes in diet can sometimes lead to temporary discomfort as your digestive system adjusts. The presence of "dry and cracked" stools may indicate that while you are improving your hydration, your body is still adjusting to the increased fiber intake.

4. Functional Disorders: Conditions like functional dyspepsia or functional abdominal pain syndrome can also manifest as chronic abdominal discomfort without any identifiable organic cause. These conditions are often exacerbated by stress or anxiety, which can lead to increased sensitivity to pain.

5. Serious Conditions: While less likely, it is important to consider more serious conditions such as tumors or significant inflammatory diseases. However, the absence of blood in your stools and the negative results from previous tests (like the fecal occult blood test) are reassuring signs that reduce the likelihood of malignancy.

Recommendations
1. Follow-Up with a Healthcare Provider: Since your symptoms have persisted for two weeks, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend further diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan), or a colonoscopy to rule out any serious conditions.

2. Dietary Management: Continue to focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber, but do so gradually to allow your digestive system to adjust. Keeping a food diary may help identify any specific triggers that exacerbate your symptoms.

3. Hydration: Ensure you are adequately hydrated, as this can help with bowel regularity and overall digestive health.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the frequency and consistency of your bowel movements, the nature of your pain, and any other associated symptoms like fever or weight loss.

5. Stress Management: Since anxiety and stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or other relaxation exercises into your routine.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to functional gastrointestinal issues or dietary changes, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Early intervention can lead to better management of your symptoms and overall health.

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