Severe Abdominal Pain & Diarrhea

I have been suffering for over 25 years starting around age 11 with severe abdominal pain,cramping and tenderness accompanied by diarrhea. I have been hospitalized numerous times with gastritis, pancreatitis & pericarditis. I have a history of Graves disease treated with radioactive drink and have hypothyroidism and taking synthroid. After many trips to various doctors including GI, Rheumatologist, Cardiologist, Endocronologist & Allergist it is in agreement by all that I have an undiagnosed autommune inflammation problem. I have been treated over the years with many different medications and with short lived relief. The abdominal pain is excrusiating to the point that I can't stand up straight, it is accompanied by severe nausea, tenderness to touch and also cold sweats. Pain is everywhere across my abdomin (abdomen) but prodominantly my on my right side from under my ribcage to my lower right side. The pain can last anywhere from 30 mins to several hours and is eventually relief by diarrhea leaving my abdomin (abdomen) very tender and  burning and aching feeling lasting for several days. I have been diagnosed from either being lactose intolerant, food allergies, mild colitis which was diagnosed by a colonoscopy along with stomach inflammation diagnosed by endoscopy none of which seems to explain the excrusiating pain that I live with more than I don't. I am frustrated with being treated with medications that only provide a short period of relief.  I am extremely cautious with the food that I eat.  Although I can eat something one day and another day I am in agony.  This has been a vicious cycle for to long do you have any suggestions or ideas what could be causing my symptoms?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

If you had these symptoms for 25 years, and have been evaluated by a variety of specialists, it will be unlikely that I can come up with something over the internet.

I agree with the colonoscopy and upper endoscopy, which can evaluate for signs of inflammation or colitis within the GI tract.

More specialized tests like sending the stool off for malabsorption and testing for celiac disease can be considered.  

Otherwise, optimizing treatment for irritable bowel syndrome can be done.

These options can be discussed with another GI opinion - preferably at a major academic medical center.

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

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd

[LJP1128]

I too have had this more recently.  I was up for hours last night with the same things.  Now after dinner tonight I'm beginning to feel the same way.  I had the sweats also.  couldn't harldy move in bed for fear of vomiting.  What's causing this?

[billrussellfan]

A related discussion, Why can't doctors find the problem? was started.