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What tests can help address persistent bloating and abdominal discomfort?

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

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been struggling with chronic constipation for over two years now, accompanied by constant bloating and abdominal discomfort. I wake up every day feeling bloated and with a belly ache, and my intestines never feel even partially empty. This has become a 24/7 issue that is severely affecting my quality of life.

  1. I have tried multiple lifestyle changes:
  2. I drink plenty of water daily.
  3. I eat a high-fiber diet.
  4. I walk regularly and work out.

Despite these efforts, the problem persists. While I could potentially include more fruit in my diet, I genuinely do not know what else I can do.

I have visited my GP multiple times, and my test results have been consistently normal:

  1. No calprotectin was detected in my stool.
  2. Blood tests are normal with no signs of inflammation.
  3. Negative for H. pylori.

My GP suggested I might have IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), but since there is no inflammation, I am confused if this diagnosis is accurate. They have also prescribed Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), but it has not resolved my symptoms—it feels more like a temporary fix than a solution.

I am at a loss and feeling increasingly frustrated. I cannot live like this any longer. Could you please provide further guidance or suggest alternative approaches to manage this condition?

Kindly help.


Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern, but I appreciate that you are being attentive to the changes in your body. Please do not worry—I am here to help you.

Based on your symptoms, I suspect you may have developed abdominal colic with a possible paralytic ileus. To confirm the diagnosis and determine the next steps, I recommend the following:

  1. Abdominal X-ray or ultrasound scan: This will help identify any obstruction or abnormalities in your digestive system.

In the meantime, I suggest the following medications:

  1. Hyoscine Butylbromide 10 mg: Take 2 tablets orally, once daily, for 1 week (to alleviate abdominal cramps).
  2. Syrup Gaviscon 20 ml: Take orally, three times daily, for 1 week (to reduce gastric discomfort).
  3. Erythromycin 500 mg: Take 2 tablets orally, three times daily, for 1 week (as a prokinetic agent to stimulate intestinal movement).

Revert with the answer to assist further.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.


Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At December 20, 2024
Reviewed AtDecember 20, 2024

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