Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

Lower abdominal pain

Hello Dr.
Hong, I have been experiencing intermittent pain in my lower abdomen over the past couple of days, along with bloating and diarrhea.
However, I have not noticed any blood in my stool, so it shouldn't be a gastric ulcer or a duodenal ulcer, right? Could you please help me understand what this might be? Thank you.

Qingfeng Róuyún, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/09/07

Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine

Regarding lower abdominal pain, several causes should be considered: 1.
Whether there is gastroenteritis, such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, or colorectal polyps.
Additionally, the absence of blood in the stool does not rule out gastrointestinal bleeding, as occult blood may not be visible to the naked eye; therefore, further evaluation by a gastroenterologist is necessary.
2.
The second consideration is whether there are urinary tract issues, such as cystitis or urinary stones.
3.
Generally, peptic ulcers present with upper abdominal pain, particularly pain that occurs when fasting.
Therefore, it is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough investigation of the underlying cause to provide appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2000/09/07

More Info

Lower abdominal pain can be a perplexing symptom, and understanding its potential causes is crucial for effective management. Based on your description of intermittent pain, bloating, and diarrhea without blood in the stool, several possibilities can be considered.

Firstly, gastrointestinal issues are common culprits for lower abdominal pain. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could be at play, particularly if the pain is accompanied by changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, often triggered by stress, dietary changes, or infections. The absence of blood in your stool is reassuring, as it often indicates that more serious conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer, are less likely.

Another possibility is a viral or bacterial gastroenteritis, which can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating. This condition often resolves on its own, but hydration and rest are essential. If the diarrhea persists or worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever or severe dehydration, it would be wise to seek medical attention.

Additionally, consider the role of anxiety and stress in your symptoms. Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to gastrointestinal disturbances, including abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. If you are experiencing heightened stress or anxiety, addressing these factors through relaxation techniques, therapy, or medication may help alleviate your symptoms.

It's also important to rule out other potential causes, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or gynecological issues (in females), which can present with similar symptoms. A UTI might cause lower abdominal pain and changes in urination, while conditions like ovarian cysts or endometriosis can lead to pelvic pain and gastrointestinal symptoms.

In your case, since the symptoms have been present for a short duration, it may be reasonable to monitor them for a few days. However, if the pain intensifies, if you experience persistent diarrhea, or if you develop additional concerning symptoms (such as fever, vomiting, or significant changes in your bowel habits), it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, laboratory tests, or imaging studies to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms could be attributed to several benign conditions, it is essential to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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