first visit to GI doc

I am 36 yo male..have had pain just under/below my left ribcage ...sometimes goes around to the back as well.  I will get this pain for 4-5 days at time..then will go away for a few weeks then come back..not severe stabbing pain..but an annoying pain I have dealt with for many years and thought I should get it checked out.  Sometimes when It hurts alot on my side I will hear gurgling just after eating and have to run to the bathroom.  Also have heart burn and have woken at night( maybe once/month) choking on reflux). Dr. said it is prbobaly IBS, but wanted to be sure nothing else. He gave me prescription for Levsin?? as needed and Nexium. He also has scheduled me for Colonoscopy( no family history of colon cancer) and an upper GI scope..Not sure if these tests are truly neccesary right now or am I better off ruling things out..this large practice has an endoscopy center in house!!!just don't want any unneccesary tests..what about capsule endoscopy..thanks

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Things that can cause this are GERD, an ulcer, inflammation of the upper digestive tract, or pancreatic disease.  The upper endoscopy is a pretty thorough test and can evaluate for most of these conditions.  

Capsule endoscopy is typically used to evaluate the small bowel - it is uncommon for small bowel disease to present with left sided abdominal pain.  

You can also consider an abdominal CT scan to further evaluate the pancreas or spleen.  

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 patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com

[stimjammy]

Is a colonoscopy truly needed for the symptoms I present with..given my age..thanks