Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: A Gastrointestinal Concern

Abdominal pain with bloody diarrhea?

As a member of the fast-food community, I have been aware of my unbalanced diet, which has led to severe constipation for many years, typically having a bowel movement every 3 to 5 days.
During these bowel movements, I experience bleeding from the rectum and anal pain.
Since last week, I suddenly developed cramping pain and have only been passing watery stools, but not frequently—about once a day.
Yesterday, I began to feel slight pain in my left abdomen, and although my diet has been normal, I experience pain in the left abdomen while eating.
This has progressed to slight swelling in both the left abdomen and upper abdomen, along with frequent gas.
When I woke up today, I noticed persistent mild swelling and pain.

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/14

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Ms.
Li, please visit the gastroenterology department for further examination and treatment.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2012/05/14

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain and blood in stool is crucial, especially for individuals who have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as chronic constipation and dietary imbalances. Your symptoms, including severe constipation, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits, suggest a potential underlying gastrointestinal concern that warrants further investigation.

Chronic constipation, defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, can lead to various complications, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and fecal impaction. The presence of blood in the stool, particularly if it is bright red, may indicate bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, which could be due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures resulting from straining during bowel movements. However, it is essential to consider other serious conditions, such as diverticulosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even colorectal cancer, especially given your family history of cancer.

The sudden onset of cramping abdominal pain, particularly if it is localized to the left side, could suggest several possibilities. One common cause is diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that can form in the walls of the colon. Symptoms of diverticulitis can include left-sided abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and sometimes fever or nausea. Additionally, the presence of watery stools may indicate a change in bowel function, possibly due to an underlying infection or inflammation.

The sensation of abdominal distension and frequent gas could be attributed to several factors, including dietary choices, gut flora imbalances, or gastrointestinal motility issues. Foods that are high in fiber can sometimes lead to increased gas production, especially if introduced suddenly into a diet that has been low in fiber. However, persistent abdominal distension and pain should not be overlooked, as they can also signify more serious conditions, such as bowel obstruction or gastrointestinal infections.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A thorough evaluation by a gastroenterologist is recommended. They may suggest diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum, and can help identify any abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or tumors. Additionally, imaging studies like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan may be warranted to assess for diverticulitis or other structural issues.

In the meantime, managing your diet can be beneficial. Increasing fiber intake gradually, staying well-hydrated, and incorporating regular physical activity can help alleviate constipation. However, if you experience severe pain, fever, or significant changes in your bowel habits, it is essential to seek immediate medical care.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to chronic constipation and its complications, the presence of blood in the stool and the recent changes in your abdominal pain and bowel habits necessitate a comprehensive evaluation to rule out more serious gastrointestinal conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing your symptoms effectively and ensuring your overall health.

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