Abdominal pain from medicines - post gall bladder removal

I am a 39 year old male who had my gall bladder removed Nov 2005.  Since then, I have experienced extreme abdominal pain whenever I take any medication (during or after a meal).  This includes any medicine, vitamin C, tylenol, etc...

In Summer 2007, I went to a GI doctor for medical tests.  The EGD was negative.  H Pylori was also negative.  The GI doctor said that he did not know what else medical science could offer me as help.  He decided not to do the Sphincter of Oddi manometry test because my liver enzymes were only slightly elevated.

I have other medical conditions that are cured by taking medications.  However, I am unable to endure the side effect of abdominal pain after taking those medications, which means I can't take the medications I need.  I am losing hope.  Please offer advice for how to treat the abdominal pains that my doctors don't know how to treat.  If you can recommend a GI doctor in Houston that could treat me, please help!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the testing thus far.  

An MRCP can be done to exclude biliary tree blockages or stones.  If negative, I would consider a Sphincter of Oddi manometry.  

Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction is more frequent in those without a gallbladder, and this possibility needs to be excluded.

You can also consider a gastric emptying scan to evaluate for gastroparesis or motility studies to exclude dysmotility.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com