Adominal pain that won't quit!

[sicofit]

Just over a month ago I started having severe adominal (abdominal) pain on my left side just under my rib cage.  Fearful that this was kidney stones in the only kidney I had, I immediately called my Urologist who after numerous tests confirmed that stones was not the answer and kidney looked and is functioning great.  Referred me to GI.  Had colonoscopy results were normal.  EDG resulted acid relux.  I was surprised at this since I had not experienced heartburn since pregancy 14 yrs. ago.  I was prescribed AcipHex.  One week later, I was still in pain with little relief only with Lortab.  Called GI.  Much to my surprise, I now have divitucolsis.  Biospies normal.  Could this not have been seen during the colonoscopy?  GI prescribed cipro and flagyl.  I continued to take the medicine as prescirbed even though I was suffering from side effects - dizziness, headaches, nausea, and still the pain.  I have had diahrea and pellet-like stools.  Two weeks later I still am having all the same symptons listed above and am sick of it!  
I am scheduled to see my GI again next week after calling with an update of my condition.  I am a healthy female with good eating habits.  This is not normal for me.  Any suggestions?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You GI doc is likely treating for diverticulitis with the Cipro and Flagyl, but that typically presents as lower left quadrant pain, not pain under your rib cage.  A CT scan should be able to diagnose this.  You are correct that diverticulosis is typically seen during colonoscopy.  

Regarding the left sided pain under the rib, I would consider an abdominal CT scan to evaluate the spleen and pancreas which is in that area.  If the EGD showed reflux, you may want to consider a 24-hr pH study to evaluate the severity of the reflux.  If it continues, you may want to consider surgical therapy for treatment.  

Regarding the diarrhea and pellet-like stools, a colonoscopy would be the best to comprehensively evaluate this.  

If every single GI test is negative, then irritable bowel syndrome can present with the change in bowel habits and the pain you describe.  

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.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[sicofit]

Ultra sound on gallbadder was normal.  Urine test were also normal.  CT Scan w/ barium was normal.

[Hvan]

If it does turn out that you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, there's a lot of help and support at the patient self-help site htp://www.helpforibs.com/   I've found their dietary section (at http://www.helpforibs.com/diet/ ) to be the best info around for managing symptoms like pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

[sicofit]

Thanks for the links concerning IBS.  
GI Dr. ordered HIDA CCK and Small bowel series.  Have not heard results on this one yet.  GI and Internist both agree this is NOT IBS.  So far all test prove normal but physical exam is a diferent story.  Tender/severe pain to touch.  Both drs. believe whatever it is seems to be very rare.

[sicofit]

I'd like to hear your comments.  I feel confident in my drs but am worried when they both (GI & Intern.) tell me this is rare and are concerned.

[sicofit]

I failed to mention that I have taken all of the cipro and flagal prescirbed.  My GI stated the Divitculosis was not real bad.  Acid Reflux Grade A.  Pain is getting worse - all over ab - left, right, upper, lower, under rib cage.  GI did prescribe Levisen.