Abdominal Pain and Bowel Issues in Young Adults

Frequent abdominal pain and bowel sounds?

Hello Doctor, I am 19 years old.
Since June and July of this year, I have frequently experienced pain in my upper and lower abdomen, along with bowel sounds after eating.
Occasionally, I also experience bloating and indigestion.
In high school, I often had diarrhea, but the frequency decreased after graduation.
I have habitual constipation; although I have a bowel movement every day, my stools are often hard and pellet-like.
On July 10, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and took some medication for a few days, which made my stools somewhat softer.
Around August, I experienced rectal bleeding once, and later saw a doctor who treated me for hemorrhoids.
The bleeding lasted about five days.
In May and June, I lost 3 kilograms, possibly due to a cold, and from July to October, I have maintained a weight of around 50 kilograms.
Recently, I sometimes experience cramping pain in my upper left abdomen and dull pain in my lower abdomen.
Sometimes, my stomach pain eases after having a bowel movement or passing gas, but at other times, I feel pain and cannot have a bowel movement.
I am also concerned about anemia, as I experience palpitations and dizziness.
These symptoms come and go.
Initially, I thought it was a gastric issue, so I scheduled an endoscopy for the end of October.
I originally intended to have a colonoscopy as well, but the doctor told me that at my age, there shouldn't be any issues with the colon, so he does not recommend it.
I am really worried that it might be related to my colon.
What should I do, Doctor?

Jill, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/09

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At your age, it's unlikely to have issues with the colon.
The physician who performed the gastroscopy is very conscientious.
Young, slender women often experience constipation.
In addition to improving dietary habits and lifestyle, there are medications available to alleviate these issues.
However, we certainly do not want you to rely on medication at such a young age, so please pay attention to your water intake and fiber consumption.
Regular exercise can also be beneficial.

Reply Date: 2015/10/09

More Info

Abdominal pain and bowel issues in young adults can be quite complex, often stemming from a variety of causes. In your case, the symptoms you've described—upper and lower abdominal pain, bowel irregularities, and episodes of rectal bleeding—suggest a multifaceted issue that may involve dietary habits, gastrointestinal function, and possibly underlying health conditions.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that abdominal pain can arise from numerous sources, including gastrointestinal disorders, dietary factors, stress, and even psychological conditions. Given your history of constipation and the recent changes in your bowel habits, it seems likely that your symptoms may be related to functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is characterized by abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits, which can include constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between both.
Your mention of experiencing "pellet-like" stools indicates that you may be dealing with chronic constipation, which can lead to discomfort and pain. Constipation can be exacerbated by a diet low in fiber, inadequate fluid intake, and a sedentary lifestyle. It’s crucial to ensure that you are consuming enough dietary fiber (from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) and drinking plenty of water to help maintain regular bowel movements. Regular physical activity also plays a significant role in promoting healthy digestion.

The episode of rectal bleeding you experienced could be attributed to hemorrhoids, especially if you have a history of constipation. Hemorrhoids can develop when there is increased pressure in the rectal area, often due to straining during bowel movements. However, any instance of rectal bleeding should be taken seriously, and it’s advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes, such as anal fissures or more serious gastrointestinal conditions.

Your symptoms of heart palpitations and dizziness could be related to anemia, particularly if you have experienced significant weight loss or changes in your diet. Anemia can result from various factors, including nutritional deficiencies (such as iron deficiency), chronic disease, or gastrointestinal bleeding. It would be prudent to have your blood levels checked, including a complete blood count (CBC) and iron studies, to assess for anemia.

Regarding your concerns about the possibility of colorectal issues at your age, it is true that the risk of colorectal cancer is significantly lower in young adults. However, it is essential to address any persistent symptoms with your healthcare provider. If your doctor has advised against a colonoscopy at this time, it may be due to your age and the absence of alarming symptoms. Nevertheless, if your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking a second opinion or further evaluation may be warranted.

In summary, I recommend the following steps:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Increase your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Ensure adequate hydration and consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential dietary triggers for your symptoms.

2. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel regularity and overall health.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and consistency of your bowel movements, any episodes of pain, and any occurrences of rectal bleeding.

4. Follow-Up Care: If symptoms persist, consider scheduling a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your ongoing concerns and possibly explore further diagnostic testing.

5. Mental Health: Given the anxiety surrounding your symptoms, consider discussing your mental health with a professional, as stress and anxiety can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.

By addressing these areas, you may find relief from your symptoms and improve your overall digestive health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or treatment plan.

Similar Q&A

Concerns and Confusions About Bowel Issues in Young Adults

Hello, doctor. First, let me provide my age and other information: I am currently 20 years old, 167 cm tall, and weigh 110 lbs. I plan to lose weight, but due to academic pressure, my diet and sleep have been very irregular. Since the second semester of my freshman year, I often ...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
At your age, the risk of colorectal cancer is low. Some cases of early-onset colorectal cancer are associated with genetic history or strong environmental factors, but lifestyle habits have a greater impact on bowel movements. Irregular bowel habits are related to diet, daily rou...

Can Young Adults Develop Colon Cancer? Understanding IBS Symptoms and Risks

Hello Doctor: I am 22 years old, and I have had gastrointestinal issues since childhood. My diet tends to lean towards Western and heavily flavored foods; I enjoy barbecued and grilled foods, fast food from places like McDonald's, cakes, and I love drinking bubble tea. I als...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Based on the symptoms, gastrointestinal dysfunction is the most likely condition. It is essential to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. If your dietary and lifestyle habits do not improve, even if you are currently asymptomatic, you will still remain at high ris...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Ulcer Concerns in Young Women

Hello, doctor. I have some questions I would like to ask you! I am a female college student, and my daily routine has been irregular for about two months, but I have recently adjusted back to a regular schedule. Regarding my menstrual cycle, I did not have my period for the past ...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A 21-year-old female presents with abdominal pain and diarrhea, experiencing pain in both the upper and lower abdomen. The diarrhea is most likely due to gastroenteritis or indigestion. The lower abdominal pain could be attributed to either gastroenteritis or gynecological...

Understanding Abdominal Discomfort in Teens: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, I am an 18-year-old high school student. Last week, I suddenly felt discomfort in my abdomen and went to the clinic. I took medication for three days, but it hasn't helped much. My symptoms include mild pain in the upper abdomen, overall fatigue, occasional blo...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, they are all non-specific symptoms. You need to visit a gastroenterology clinic for treatment to further clarify whether the issue is related to the gastrointestinal tract or the liver and gallbladder. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng...