Symptoms of Bloating and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Help

Q: Symptoms of Bloating and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Help

Hello： Based on the described symptoms, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for further clarification on which specific examinations are needed. <br>Wishing you safety and good health. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospit

Bloating in the stomach with left abdominal cramping radiating to the throat?

Hello, doctor.
A few years ago, I experienced a decrease in bowel movements, and after taking traditional Chinese medicine, I had a significant increase the next day.
However, recently, despite eating a lot, my bowel movements have not increased proportionately, and I feel very hungry, needing to eat a lot.
It feels like my stomach is bloating up to my throat, causing discomfort.
I also experience intermittent sharp pain on the left side of my abdomen, which is not continuous.
Pressing on my stomach causes pain, and after eating, I often hear sounds of indigestion, with a very foul odor from my breath.
I feel bloated to the point where I don't want to eat anymore, and I have abdominal bloating.
I would like to ask if this could be a symptom of a serious gastrointestinal disease or if it is simply a case of bloating.
Do I need to undergo gastroscopy, colonoscopy, or X-ray examinations? Thank you for your response.

Feng Qiu Shuang Qing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/07

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Based on the described symptoms, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for further clarification on which specific examinations are needed.
Wishing you safety and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/02/07

More Info

When experiencing symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits, it is essential to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek medical help. Your description of feeling bloated, having left-sided abdominal cramping, and experiencing foul-smelling gas can be indicative of various gastrointestinal issues.
Firstly, the sensation of bloating and the feeling of fullness in the stomach can be attributed to several factors, including dietary choices, gastrointestinal motility issues, or underlying medical conditions. Common causes of bloating include overeating, consuming gas-producing foods (such as beans, lentils, carbonated beverages, and certain vegetables), and food intolerances (like lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity). Additionally, conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even gastrointestinal infections can lead to similar symptoms.

The left-sided abdominal pain you mentioned could be related to several organs in that area, including the colon, left ovary (in females), or even the stomach. Given that you have experienced changes in bowel habits, such as decreased stool output despite increased food intake, this could suggest a potential obstruction or motility issue within the intestines. The presence of foul-smelling gas and digestive noises after eating may indicate malabsorption or an imbalance in gut bacteria, which can occur in conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

It is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical attention promptly:
1. Severe or persistent abdominal pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or does not improve, it could indicate a more serious condition.

2. Changes in bowel habits: If you notice blood in your stool, significant changes in the frequency or consistency of your bowel movements, or if you experience diarrhea or constipation that lasts more than a few days.

3. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying can be a sign of an underlying health issue.

4. Nausea or vomiting: If you feel nauseous or are vomiting, especially if it is persistent.

5. Fever: A fever accompanying abdominal pain may indicate an infection or inflammation.

In terms of diagnostic tests, a gastroenterologist may recommend several evaluations based on your symptoms. These could include:
- Upper endoscopy (EGD): This procedure allows the doctor to visualize the upper gastrointestinal tract and can help identify issues such as gastritis, ulcers, or tumors.

- Colonoscopy: This test examines the colon and can help diagnose conditions like IBD, polyps, or colorectal cancer.

- Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan: Imaging studies can provide a visual assessment of the abdominal organs and help identify structural abnormalities.

- X-rays: These can help detect blockages or other issues in the gastrointestinal tract.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to benign causes such as dietary habits or mild gastrointestinal disturbances, they could also indicate more serious conditions. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough evaluation, recommend appropriate tests, and provide a tailored treatment plan based on your specific situation. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help if your symptoms persist or worsen.

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