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What are the possible causes of abdominal discomfort and problems in the small intestine in a 42-year-old male?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 42-year-old male, and I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort. Initially, I thought it was constipation, but the X-ray and CT scan showed no signs of constipation. Instead, I have problems in my small intestine. I have taken multiple tests and still have no answer as to what is causing it. I do not smoke, drink or take drugs. I am not losing or gaining weight. I have undergone a coloscopy and blood test.

Answered by Dr. Abdul Rasheed

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Your symptoms point toward functional abdominal pain. It is centrally mediated, but the nerves of the digestive tract and brain-gut axis may become oversensitive to sensations. However, you should always watch for warning signs and immediately consult your doctor.

The warning signs are:

  1. Fever.
  2. Loss of appetite and weight.
  3. Pain awakens the person during the night.
  4. Blood in vomit, stool, or urine.
  5. Severe or frequent vomiting or diarrhea.
  6. Jaundice.

The Probable causes

Genetic factors, life stresses, personality, social situations, and underlying mental disorders (such as depression or anxiety) may all contribute to the pain.

Investigations to be done

Your recent investigations (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity) are normal, except for the changes in recent liver function tests. I suggest you repeat the test and if they are found to be altered, please get an ultrasound abdomen scan.

Differential diagnosis

The differential diagnosis is functional recurring abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome, liver disorder, and gastroparesis.

Treatment plan

Consume a high-fiber diet. I suggest you take antispasmodics like Mebevervine 200 mg twice daily. Consult a specialist doctor, discuss with them, and take medications with their consent.

Preventive measures

Changing your diet and consuming a high-fiber diet or fiber supplements may help you. You may need to avoid foods that trigger your pain. Avoid drinks high in sugar. Exercise regularly for 30 minutes a day

Answered byDr. Abdul Rasheed

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At October 25, 2022
Reviewed AtJune 20, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Abdul Rasheed
Dr. Abdul Rasheed

General Practitioner

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