Unexplained Left Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Next Steps - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the unexplained left abdominal discomfort. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing a range of symptoms, including an unusual sensation in your left side, discomfort that worsens when fasting, and changes in your bowel habits. Despite undergoing various tests such as endoscopy, blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, and abdominal ultrasound, no definitive cause has been identified.

Given your symptoms and the fact that you have a family history of colon cancer, it is understandable that you are seeking further evaluation. The sensation of "foreign body" feeling in the left side, particularly near the ribcage and extending to the abdominal area, could be attributed to several potential causes, including gastrointestinal issues, musculoskeletal problems, or even psychological factors.


Possible Causes:
1. Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or functional dyspepsia could lead to discomfort and altered bowel habits. The fact that your discomfort increases when fasting may suggest a gastrointestinal origin.

2. Musculoskeletal Issues: Given your profession as a programmer, prolonged sitting can lead to musculoskeletal pain or tension in the abdominal and back muscles. This could manifest as discomfort that feels like an "object" in the area.

3. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can often manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits. The sensation of relief after passing gas could indicate that gas buildup is contributing to your discomfort.

4. Other Considerations: While less common, conditions such as splenic issues, kidney stones, or even referred pain from other organs should not be overlooked.


Next Steps:
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: Since you have already undergone several tests, it may be beneficial to revisit a gastroenterologist for a more specialized evaluation. They may recommend additional tests such as a colonoscopy, especially given your family history of colon cancer. This procedure can provide a direct view of the colon and help rule out any potential issues.

2. Consider a Functional Medicine Approach: If traditional evaluations do not yield results, exploring a functional medicine approach may be beneficial. This could involve looking at diet, lifestyle, and potential food intolerances that might be contributing to your symptoms.

3. Psychological Evaluation: If stress or anxiety is suspected to be a contributing factor, consulting with a mental health professional could provide strategies to manage these feelings, which may, in turn, alleviate some of your physical symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Given your sedentary job, incorporating regular physical activity, stretching, and ergonomic adjustments to your workspace may help alleviate some discomfort. Additionally, keeping a food diary to track any correlations between your diet and symptoms could be insightful.

5. Follow-Up Testing: If symptoms persist, further imaging studies such as a CT scan of the abdomen may be warranted to provide a more comprehensive view of the abdominal organs.

In summary, while it can be frustrating to experience unexplained symptoms, working closely with healthcare professionals to explore all potential avenues is crucial. Your symptoms warrant further investigation, especially considering your family history. Please continue to advocate for your health, and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if necessary.