Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Specialist Care

Gastrointestinal discomfort?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions.
I have been suffering from gastrointestinal issues for the past eight months.
Initially, I experienced rectal bleeding and was diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids.
Not long after, I had a stomach upset that led to gastritis, for which I took Dexilant for three months.
However, after finishing the medication, I developed a headache and took EVE pain relief medication, which caused my stomach pain to return.
Additionally, I experience pain on the left side of my abdomen at night while sleeping; it seems to go away when I distract myself.
I've also noticed that my stools have become increasingly narrow, sometimes varying in thickness, and I often feel discomfort in my abdomen.
If I eat something or sit in an awkward position, I feel discomfort on the left side of my abdomen.
So, do I have issues with both my stomach and intestines? I have also undergone a stool occult blood test, which came back negative.
Should I see a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon?

alice, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/08

Dr. Cai Xingzhi reply Surgery

Hello, there are many causes of gastric ulcers, with the most important factors being stress and the consumption of contaminated or irritating foods.
Please consult a gastroenterologist, and if necessary, arrange for an endoscopy or ultrasound examination to understand the cause of your abdominal pain.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2015/12/08

More Info

It sounds like you have been experiencing a complex array of gastrointestinal symptoms over the past eight months, which can be quite distressing. Based on your description, it seems that you have encountered issues related to both your stomach and intestines. The symptoms you mentioned, such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and the presence of blood in your stool, warrant a thorough evaluation by a specialist.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Abdominal Pain: The pain you experience on the left side of your abdomen could be related to several factors. It might be associated with your gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis or issues with the colon. Since you mentioned that the pain is alleviated by distraction, it may also have a psychosomatic component, where stress and anxiety exacerbate your symptoms.

2. Bowel Changes: The change in the caliber of your stool, alternating between thin and normal, can indicate a potential issue in the colon. While you have had a negative fecal occult blood test, which is a good sign, it does not completely rule out the presence of other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or even structural changes in the colon.

3. Medication Effects: You mentioned taking medications like EVE for headaches, which can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal side effects, including irritation of the stomach lining. It's crucial to consider how medications can impact your digestive health.

When to Seek Specialist Care
Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek care from a gastroenterologist. They specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. Here are some reasons to consult a specialist:
- Persistent Symptoms: If your symptoms have lasted for eight months and are affecting your quality of life, it is essential to get a comprehensive evaluation.

- Diagnostic Testing: A gastroenterologist can recommend appropriate diagnostic tests, such as an endoscopy or colonoscopy, to visualize the gastrointestinal tract and identify any underlying issues.

- Management of Conditions: If you have been diagnosed with conditions like gastritis or hemorrhoids, a specialist can provide targeted treatment plans and dietary recommendations to help manage your symptoms effectively.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: Given your symptoms, it would be beneficial to see a gastroenterologist who can evaluate both your stomach and intestinal issues. They can help determine if your symptoms are related to gastritis, IBS, or other gastrointestinal disorders.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting your symptoms, dietary habits, and any medications you take can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider. This can help identify triggers and patterns related to your discomfort.

3. Dietary Modifications: Consider adopting a diet low in irritants (spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol) and high in fiber to support digestive health. Staying hydrated and maintaining regular meal times can also be beneficial.

4. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise may help alleviate some discomfort.

5. Follow-Up Testing: If your symptoms persist or worsen, further testing may be necessary to rule out conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other structural abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract.

In conclusion, while it can be daunting to navigate gastrointestinal issues, seeking the right specialist care is crucial for proper diagnosis and management. Your symptoms deserve attention, and a gastroenterologist can provide the expertise needed to help you find relief and improve your overall digestive health.

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