Right Lower Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Is It Ascending Colonitis?

Right lower abdominal bloating?

In recent days, I have been experiencing bloating in my lower right abdomen, sometimes accompanied by pain, which becomes more pronounced when I exert myself.
I consulted both urology and surgery specialists, and they ruled out a hernia.
Then, I visited an internal medicine doctor who diagnosed me with ascending colitis, noting that my symptoms have persisted for about 10 days.
Initially, I had bloating and occasional pain in the lower right abdomen, which was more noticeable when sitting or straining.
After 8 days, I started experiencing mild constipation, and my stools have been soft, but there is no blood or discharge.
When I returned to the internal medicine doctor, he palpated the affected area and used a stethoscope to listen to it.
He confirmed the diagnosis of ascending colitis.
However, I looked up the symptoms of ascending colon cancer, and I noticed some similarities, which has made me a bit worried (I am 15 years old).
I am unsure if, in the case of colon cancer, the internal medicine doctor would be able to feel a mass during the physical examination.

Ye Ke, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/04/24

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist or a hepatobiliary specialist.

Reply Date: 2012/04/24

More Info

Right lower abdominal pain and bloating can be concerning, especially when symptoms persist for an extended period. In your case, it seems that you have been experiencing these symptoms for about ten days, with the addition of mild constipation and soft stools. Your healthcare providers have ruled out hernias and suggested that you may be experiencing ascending colonitis.

Ascending colonitis, which is inflammation of the ascending colon, can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It is important to note that while these symptoms can overlap with more serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer, the likelihood of cancer in a 15-year-old is quite low. Colorectal cancer is rare in this age group, and the symptoms you describe are more commonly associated with benign conditions like infections, inflammatory bowel disease, or functional gastrointestinal disorders.

When a physician performs a physical examination, they typically assess for tenderness, masses, and any signs of peritoneal irritation. If there were a significant mass or tumor, it is likely that the physician would have detected it during the examination. However, not all cancers present as palpable masses, especially in the early stages. Therefore, if you are concerned about the possibility of cancer, it is essential to communicate this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan) or a colonoscopy, to evaluate your colon more thoroughly.

In terms of your symptoms, the presence of bloating and pain that worsens with exertion could indicate a functional gastrointestinal issue, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a mild infection. The fact that you have soft stools without blood or mucus is a positive sign, as it suggests that there is no significant obstruction or severe inflammation.

It is also worth considering dietary factors that may contribute to your symptoms. Foods that are high in fiber, for example, can sometimes lead to bloating and discomfort if introduced too quickly into the diet. Keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it correlates with your symptoms may provide valuable insights.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as fever, significant weight loss, or blood in your stool, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires immediate evaluation.

In summary, while your symptoms could be indicative of ascending colonitis, the risk of colorectal cancer at your age is low. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers, follow their recommendations, and consider further evaluation if your symptoms do not improve. Remember that early intervention is key to managing any gastrointestinal issues effectively.

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