Liver Dumping , Excruciating upper abdominal pain

[Rockandhardplace]

I am a 53 year old female. In the mid 90's I had an upper endoscopy, and colonoscopy.  The results were, 3 ulcerated spots in my stomach and hyeital hernia which was inflammed, Colitus, with some diverticuli present. A year or so later my gall bladder was removed.   I'd been taking Prilosec, Prozac, Xanax XR, Bentyl, Lisinopril. I've had bouts of uncontrollable diarrhea.  I have no insurance now. I have recently been having the most severe pain in my upper abdomen.  This is a daily occurance, and can hit me within 30 minutes or so, after I eat.  I feel like I'm going to pass out, and throw up. My heart races, and I feel like my whole mid section is throbbing. 2 days ago,a Dr. said there is a possibility I have gall stones blocking my bile duct,and I might be experiencing 'Liver Dumping'? I've been given Welchol, and 300 mg Ranitadine. The pain I'm getting is excruciating, and can be set off with just a saltine cracker.  I have NO idea when an attack is coming, or what to eat or drink anymore.  I can't hold a regular job to get insurance so I can get another upper endoscopy.  Will the Welchol help eliminate ANY of this 'Liver Dumping', or gall stones?  If so, I'll get the money together to refill the script.  (I'm taking a sample he gave me now since he knows my financial situation)  Is there something I can I do diet wise to help fix some of this.   I don't know what else to do, or where to go.  Any help or suggestions?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The colonoscopy would rule out many of the major lower GI disorders that can be leading to the symptoms.  I would also send off the stool for analysis and cultures - to ensure there is no infection nor malabsorption present.

Regarding the abdominal pain, you can consider an MRCP to evaluate the biliary ducts.  Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction can be evaluated with an ERCP with Sphincter of Oddi manometry.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician, or in conjunction with a GI opinion.

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.
kevinmd_

[Jaybay]

Your symptoms sound like stones, or sludge, have formed somewhere in your bile duct.  In that, your doc appears to be on the right track. The way to get it cleaned out is with a procedure called ERCP.  Basically, it's similar to endoscopy, but the doc can flush out the common bile duct if any stones are present.  Do a quick google search on MRCP and ERCP for details and ask your doc about it.