Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Abdominal discomfort?

It seems that I tend to feel the urge to use the restroom after eating.
Previously, I would go 3 to 4 times a day, and my stools were a speckled coffee color, but not to the point of diarrhea.
Last Monday, I visited a gastroenterologist who prescribed medication for enteritis, but mentioned that if my symptoms did not improve after taking the medication, I would need to undergo a colonoscopy.
During the three days of taking the medication, I did not have any bowel movements, but I only went once the following day.
Two days after finishing the medication, my symptoms returned, but my stools were formed, although they seemed a bit softer.
It feels uncomfortable as long as there is something in my stomach, and I have to wait until I have a bowel movement two or three times before I feel comfortable.
Additionally, my right abdomen feels hard when pressed vertically, while the corresponding area on the left side is soft (though I have had my left ovary and fallopian tube removed, so I'm not sure if that is related).
The triangular area between my ribs also feels like a hard, round mass (not sure if that is my stomach).
My diet has been normal without any changes, and I drink a bottle of 7-11 latte every day.
My weight has not changed significantly.
Is this enteritis, or should I undergo a colonoscopy? Or would an abdominal ultrasound of the right side be more appropriate?

Fanrao de ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/02

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, I am not sure how long you have been experiencing your symptoms.
If it has been several months or even years without accompanying weight loss, fever, anemia, or positive fecal occult blood test, and if the symptoms are not worsening, especially considering your young age, it is generally advisable to avoid milk (as lattes contain milk).
Try to relax and engage in moderate exercise.
If your symptoms do not improve, further evaluation may be necessary.
Regarding the hardness you feel in your right abdomen, it would be best for a physician to perform a physical examination to determine if there is an issue.
The hard area you mentioned in the middle of your ribs is likely cartilage (which everyone has).
If you are unsure, it is still advisable to seek medical evaluation.
Sincerely, Dr.
Yuan Hongdao, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/05/02

More Info

Digestive discomfort can be a common issue, and understanding when to seek further evaluation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to a gastrointestinal issue, possibly involving inflammation or other underlying conditions.

Your symptoms of frequent bowel movements, particularly after eating, along with the presence of soft stools, suggest a possible gastrointestinal disturbance. The fact that you have been prescribed medication for enteritis (inflammation of the intestine) indicates that your healthcare provider is considering an inflammatory process as a potential cause of your symptoms. The temporary relief you experienced while on medication, followed by a return of symptoms, suggests that the underlying issue may not have been fully addressed.

The characteristics of your stools being "flower-like" and coffee-colored, while not watery, can indicate a range of conditions. The color and consistency of stool can provide clues about digestive health. For instance, coffee-colored stools may suggest the presence of blood, which can be a sign of bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. However, if the stools are not truly bloody and are simply soft, it may be more indicative of a functional gastrointestinal issue, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a mild infection.

Your description of abdominal discomfort, particularly the hardness on the right side and the difference in texture between the left and right sides, raises some concerns. The hardness could indicate a buildup of gas, stool, or even an underlying mass or inflammation. The fact that you have had a surgical history involving the left side may also play a role in your current symptoms, as surgical changes can affect bowel function and sensation.

Given that your symptoms have persisted and returned after medication, it is advisable to pursue further evaluation. A colonoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help visualize the interior of the colon and rectum, allowing for the identification of any abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or other lesions. Additionally, an abdominal ultrasound could provide insights into the structures within your abdomen, helping to identify any issues with the liver, gallbladder, or kidneys that might be contributing to your discomfort.

In summary, while your symptoms may initially suggest a mild case of enteritis, the persistence and nature of your discomfort warrant further investigation. It is important to follow up with your gastroenterologist, especially since they have already indicated that a colonoscopy may be necessary if symptoms do not improve. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing gastrointestinal issues effectively, and your healthcare provider can guide you on the best course of action based on a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history.

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