bloating/pains in abdomen, bloody stools?

Hi

I'm a 21 year old relatively healthy male. I've had recent abdominal pains and went to the doctor who diagnosed me as having some acid problems in my stomach. I had maybe two/three bloody stools in the last 4 months, but it was dismissed because it wasn't in relation to this recent abdominal pain). I was prescribed Zantac to relieve the pain (150mg twice daily). It has helped in the last week and I don't have the same pains anymore, but I'm experiencing bloating and lower back pains. Also, I had sudden soar-ness in my upper back and triceps like it was the day after a work out.  The last day or so, I've been having constipation (The inability to pass stool easily and at a natural pace, Malformed stools, A low volume of stool in respect to high volumes of food intake).

is the bloating/pains attributed to the constipation? It feels like there is stool remaining after I go to the washroom and it was misshaped this morning. Should I go see a doctor or is this a side-effect of Zantac? Or something more serious?

Thank you for any help!

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi dyoll,
Zantac contains ranitidine. Ranitidine  can cause constipation.

Take plenty of fluids and high fiber diet which can help you have a comfortable bowel movement. If constipation persists, meet your physician for evaluation.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.

[LANKESH]

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