Chronic Abdominal Pain and Constipation: Seeking Solutions

Q: Chronic Abdominal Pain and Constipation: Seeking Solutions

Hello： In response to your question, abdominal pain in young people is often caused by two main reasons. <br>One is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), where the pain is usually not localized, and bowel habits may alternate between constipation and diarrhea. <br>The stool often lacks

Frequent abdominal cramps and constipation?

Hello Doctor: Since April 2009, I have been experiencing intermittent pain in my left abdomen (around the area near the navel), occasionally close to the lower left abdomen; I also often have unexplained cramping in my abdomen, followed by frequent constipation and bloating.
In February 2010, I underwent a barium enema, and the doctor said it was normal.
However, the symptoms have persisted without improvement.
Recently (October 2010), I have started experiencing severe constipation, and I have to use enemas or laxatives to have a bowel movement; if I do not take medication, I develop pain in the upper right abdomen (around the area near the navel), and bowel movements become very difficult.
Without medication, I begin to experience constipation and abdominal bloating.
Could you please advise me on how to resolve this issue? I greatly appreciate your assistance! Thank you for taking the time to provide this consultation! Thank you!!

Ya Zi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/11/14

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Hello: In response to your question, abdominal pain in young people is often caused by two main reasons.
One is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), where the pain is usually not localized, and bowel habits may alternate between constipation and diarrhea.
The stool often lacks form and can worsen with increased psychological stress.
The second reason is constipation, which typically causes pain in the lower left abdomen, with fewer bowel movements and bloating.
If bowel movements are regular, the abdominal pain usually resolves.
Based on your description, it seems that your abdominal pain is likely due to chronic constipation.
I recommend that you increase your water intake, boost your dietary fiber, and establish a regular lifestyle.
If the situation does not improve, I suggest visiting a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist for medication to help regulate your bowel movements.

Reply Date: 2010/11/14

More Info

Chronic abdominal pain and constipation can be quite distressing and may stem from a variety of underlying causes. Given your symptoms, which include persistent left abdominal pain, episodes of cramping, and significant constipation, it is essential to consider both gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal factors that could be contributing to your condition.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that chronic abdominal pain can arise from functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is characterized by abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits, including constipation and diarrhea. In your case, the alternating symptoms of abdominal pain and constipation could suggest a functional disorder. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these symptoms, leading to a cycle of discomfort and further anxiety.

Another potential cause of your symptoms could be related to structural issues within the gastrointestinal tract. Although your colonoscopy results were normal, conditions such as adhesions from previous surgeries, diverticulosis, or even early signs of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) could still be present. It may be beneficial to discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of further imaging studies, such as a CT scan of the abdomen, to evaluate for any structural abnormalities.

Chronic constipation itself can lead to abdominal pain, as the buildup of stool can cause distension and discomfort. It is crucial to address the constipation effectively. Increasing dietary fiber intake, staying well-hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can help promote bowel regularity. If lifestyle modifications are insufficient, your healthcare provider may recommend medications such as osmotic laxatives or stool softeners to facilitate bowel movements.

In addition to gastrointestinal causes, it is also important to consider psychosomatic factors. Chronic pain can be influenced by psychological factors, including anxiety and depression. Since you mentioned a history of anxiety, it may be worthwhile to explore stress management techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, or relaxation exercises. These approaches can help alleviate the psychological burden of chronic pain and improve your overall quality of life.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, I recommend that you schedule a follow-up appointment with a gastroenterologist who can perform a comprehensive evaluation. This may include a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and possibly additional diagnostic tests to rule out any underlying conditions. It may also be helpful to keep a symptom diary, noting the frequency and intensity of your abdominal pain, bowel habits, dietary intake, and any stressors you encounter. This information can provide valuable insights for your healthcare provider.

In summary, addressing chronic abdominal pain and constipation requires a multifaceted approach that includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and potentially psychological support. By working closely with your healthcare provider, you can develop a tailored plan to manage your symptoms effectively and improve your overall well-being.

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