Why am I having abdominal pain with bowel and urine issues?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing stomach pain near my navel for the past few months. The pain is mild and bearable; it started slowly, and it does not seem related to meals. The pain usually gets relieved after passing stools, but sometimes gets worse before. My appetite has slightly decreased, and I also often feel bloated.

My bowel habits have changed, I have constipation, mucus in stool, and the color of my stool has also changed. These issues are more noticeable in the mornings, and I get mild aching pain along with it.

In the last few days, I suddenly started having difficulty with urination, which is now happening regularly. Apart from this, I also feel excessive saliva in my mouth at times, along with dizziness and weakness. Please tell me;

Can you please suggest what could be the cause of these symptoms?
What tests or treatments should I consider?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Based on your symptoms, which are;

Persistent periumbilical abdominal pain.
Changes in stool consistency and color, presence of mucus.
Constipation and bloating.
Excessive saliva, dizziness, and weakness.

You may be experiencing a functional gastrointestinal disorder such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), possibly with a component of post-infectious IBS or early inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The mild pain that improves after defecation, absence of radiating pain, and slight appetite decrease also support this. Difficulty in urination alongside gastrointestinal symptoms could point to pelvic floor dysfunction or overlapping bladder-bowel sensitivity. But this should be evaluated further. You should undergo basic investigations, including

CBC (complete blood count).
CRP (C-reactive protein).
Stool routine and microscopy,
Stool calprotectin,
Abdominal ultrasound

These tests are needed to rule out infection, inflammation, or structural issues. A gastroenterology referral may be needed if symptoms persist or escalate. In the meantime, dietary modification such as;

Low FODMAP (Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides, and Polyols) diet.
Increased fiber intake (unless worsening bloating).
Adequate hydration.

These can reduce your symptoms. Medications such as antispasmodics (Mebeverine) or probiotics may reduce symptoms, while laxatives (like Polyethylene glycol) can be used cautiously for constipation. If symptoms of dizziness and weakness worsen or bleeding occurs, seek medical attention promptly.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.