after many tests, what could cause constant abdominal pain on the left side?
i have had a constant pain in my mid left abdomen since the beginning of December. Although the pain is constant; the frequency changes. i have had 3 ct scans, two colonoscopies, and even a laparoscopy for endometriosis- all coming back as normal. however one of the biggest symptoms that has always been there is constipation. even prior to this most recent attack i have always had digestion issues- as well as many other family members. i have been told it is ibs and tried both diet changes and supplements with no real relief. no matter how much fiber and water i take in, it is still constipating. once it does make it out, it is very soft. generally a small dose of laxatives gets things moving quite fast but to the other extreme of diarrhea. i have tried antispazmatics and muscle relaxers to no avail. could an issue in the small intestine be to blame?? i have been curious if it could be a kink? any other suggestions on what to try next?
Hi nagg,
Sorry to hear about your nagging abdominal pain and constipation. If you've had 2 colonoscopys and your doctor haven't found anything like Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's disease (both Inflammatory Bowel Diseases) then it is likely it is IBS - Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I can tell you that constipation is not a symptom of IBD.
Since this web site it devoted to IBD you might take a look at the site, www.ibsgroup.org for more information about suggestions to handle IBS and in particular, constipation and abdominal pain.
You may also want to take a look at my Shareposts on this site - I've written quite a few posts about changing diet, life style, and stress levels, all of which can make a difference in gut issues. However, these changes can take time. It's not like you change your diet today and voila! tomorrow or next week you're pain free and having perfect BMs. Diet changes have to take place over a period of weeks and months to really see change. Keeping a food and symptom journal is also a good idea and can help you and your doctor to see patterns that may emerge over months.
Take care and good luck. Much of treating gut issues comes down to patience and diligence.
Cheers,
Elizabeth
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