Hello,
Thanks for posting your query at DoctorSpring.com
I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you.
There are many different causes for stomach ache.
I would like to have some more information before I can give my opinion.
1. Where exactly is the stomach ache - upper or lower part?
2. Is it a continuous pain or intermittent one?
3. Does it disturb your sleep?
4.Anything that worsens or relieves the pain?
5. Ultrasound scan done?
6. Serum amylase/lipase test done?
7. Are you on painkillers?
Kindly get back to me with these information and I would give my opinion.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.
Patient replied :
Dr. R.K.,
Thank you for your prompt response.
The low level pain is continuous. It is in the lower part of my abdomen -feels like my colon more
than my stomach. It does not disturb my sleep, although I take ambien and sleep fairly heavily.
The Mirilax did relieve some of the pain, but not all. I have not had an ultrasound yet. I am not
on painkillers -never have been. I had bloodwork, but not sure about a serum amylase/lipase test.
Having a bowel movement helps with the pain. I can't pinpoint anything else that helps relieve the pain. I have not tried any OTC medications. I think I mentioned that I am very healthy. I exercise, eat an organic, fresh, high fiber diet, lots of water. I have mild chronic fatigue, but it's well managed. No other health issues. I have no history of any GI issues to date and no family history.
I am not under any undue stress. This came on fairly suddenly several weeks ago. The only change I can think of is that I started taking Melatonin at my sleep doctor's request. The stomach issue started around the same time. I have read that some patients can have constipation issues with Melatonin -although its not common-especially in females 60 yrs. and older (I'm 61). I stopped the Melatonin 2 weeks ago. I have not had a colonoscopy to date. Before this incident, I had very regular bowel movements-once day about the consistency of toothpaste. Whe the pain started I had slowed to one small movement every other day with a harder consistency. Since the Mirilax I am back to one daily movement. I have not seen blood or mucous in the stool. My internist did a physical and found no tenderness in my abdomen. I have done some research on causes-IBS, colitis, diverticulitis, cancer of the colon etc. But I know that it's best not to diagnose myself from the Internet! I am curious if any of these can be ruled out at this point or if more tests are needed.
My main concern at this point is that I have plans to go out of town the week after Christmas -an 8 hour plane ride -the trip has been planned for months and I would very much like to go but am concerned about traveling with these issues. Could I manage the symptoms with Mirilax etc. and get to the root of the problem when I return? I appreciate any assistance you could give me.
Sincerely,
Melissa Petty
Hello,
Thanks for the additional information.
I presume that you do not any issues with urination and do not have any discharge per vaginum,
The most likely cause for your lower abdominal pain as you said is constipation only as you get some relief with miralax and bowel movements.
You can go ahead with your plans for Christmas.
You can manage your symptoms with miralax alone.
Drink lot of fluids and have high fiber diet.
Since you are 61 years old and have a recent onset of constipation, I would advise you to have a fecal occult blood test now and a colonoscopy after you return,
I hope that answers your question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.
Patient replied :
Dr. K,
Thank you so much for your consultation. It's been very helpful.
Melissa Petty