Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Cancer or Just Gas? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Is there a condition of cancer or tumors?

Hello Doctor, about a week ago I started feeling bloated and uncomfortable in my left abdomen.
When I press on it, it feels firm and I have been experiencing frequent flatulence, but my bowel movements are normal with no abnormalities, just softer stools.
Additionally, I often feel hungry and experience slight nausea after eating, but my appetite and weight are normal.
I visited a gastroenterologist, who after auscultation, mentioned that I have a lot of gas in my intestines and mild inflammation.
I was prescribed medication, and after a few days, my left abdominal symptoms improved, but now I have a sensation of fullness on the right side of my abdomen, about three centimeters in, and a firm protrusion on the left side when pressed.
Pressing firmly causes discomfort and slight pain, but I can't really feel it when lying down or bending over.
Should I return for a follow-up? Do I need to undergo a colonoscopy? Is there a possibility of a tumor or colon cancer? If I do return, which department should I visit? Thank you.

Maria, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/25

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, based on your symptoms, it appears to be gastroenteritis accompanied by bloating.
Please consult with Dr.
Chi-Feng Chen, a specialist in the Department of Gastroenterology at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/12/25

More Info

When it comes to abdominal discomfort, distinguishing between benign conditions like gas and more serious issues such as cancer can be challenging. Your symptoms, including left abdominal bloating, frequent gas, and mild discomfort upon pressure, are common and can often be attributed to gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or mild inflammation. The fact that your bowel movements are normal and you have a good appetite is reassuring.

However, the emergence of a hard, protruding area in your abdomen, especially if it is tender to the touch, warrants further evaluation. While it is possible that this could be related to gas or inflammation, it is also important to rule out any serious conditions, including tumors or colorectal cancer, particularly given your family history of colon cancer.

Here are some key points to consider:
1. Follow-Up with Your Doctor: Since your symptoms have changed and you are now experiencing a new hard area in your abdomen, it is advisable to return to your healthcare provider. They may want to conduct a physical examination and possibly order imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan to further investigate the mass you are feeling.

2. Colonoscopy Consideration: Given your symptoms and family history, a colonoscopy may be warranted. This procedure allows for direct visualization of the colon and can help identify any polyps or abnormal growths that could be precursors to cancer. If you have not had a colonoscopy recently, discussing this with your doctor is important.

3. Specialist Referral: If your primary care physician or gastroenterologist is not available, you may want to consider seeing a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist who specializes in inflammatory bowel disease. They can provide a more focused evaluation of your symptoms and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests.

4. Symptoms of Concern: While many gastrointestinal issues can cause discomfort and bloating, certain symptoms should raise red flags. These include significant weight loss, changes in bowel habits (such as persistent diarrhea or constipation), blood in the stool, or severe abdominal pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

5. Anxiety and Health Concerns: It is common to feel anxious about potential serious conditions, especially with a family history of cancer. However, it is essential to approach your symptoms with a clear mind and rely on medical evaluations to guide your understanding of your health.

In conclusion, while your initial symptoms may suggest a benign condition, the new development of a hard area in your abdomen should not be ignored. A follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider is crucial to ensure that any serious conditions are ruled out and to receive appropriate care. Regular monitoring and proactive management of your gastrointestinal health are key, especially given your family history.

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