Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
429700 tn?1308007823

Severe Bloating & Colitis

What are some causes for severe and chronic bloating?  I've had this for years and this year, I've really noticed.  Even though my weight is the same, I've noticed that my stomach distends so much that I can no longer wear the same shirts without it showing off my stomach area.

I have a long history of health problems--most noteably MS diagnosed in 2007.  As far as GI problems, I've had a history of this for many years.  In 2008, I had an episode of severe bleeding--probably about 1/4 cup full.  A colonoscopy I had a week and half later revealed nothing besides hemorrhoids which I probably obtained in preparing for the test.  The GI specialist said that if I was having a bout with colitis that I would need to have the colonoscopy within 3 days of the event because the ulcers tend to heal quickly.  He also said that he didn't think hemorrhoids caused the bleeding.  He had examined me prior to colonoscopy and I didn't have them.  So, I went on my merry way and waited for another bout of bleeding--which I've not had.  The stomach bloating continued.

Also noteworthy is that I've had positive ANA tests.  This could be related to MS, but I also have hair loss which is not related to MS.  They are low in titer at 1:160 and 1: 320.  

About six months ago I started developing a pain in my side and back area.  I believe it was the right side.  Blood work revealed no problems with my liver or internal organs.  However, an x-ray revealed lots of gas.  

Two months ago, I've noticed I cannot fit in my regular sized clothes in the top--I am fitting in at least two sizes up.  I've not gained that much weight (2-5 pounds).  Pants I can wear the same sizes, but my belly protrudes over the waist line.

A week ago, I got really sick.  I had to make constant trips to the bathroom.  I ran a 102 temperature which went away in a day.  Two days later, the fever continues with a pain in my lower (like bladder area) left side.  I started getting lots of mucous-- even when passing gas.  I went to the doctor, who diagnosed me with colitis.  He said it could be started on with a bacterial infection and gave me two medicines to get rid of it.  

Here's a list of GI symptoms I've been having.  Let me know what you think.  I know this forum is of non-doctors, but if you have any advice or recommendations for me let me know.

Bloating!!!!!!!!!  Chronic problem.  I now look at least 9 months pregnant which hasn't gone down.  Many years history of this.
Rectal itching (non-stop for 3 years-- worse at night or in the mornings)
Mucous (off an on)-- most markedly noted a couple of days ago
BM range from going too often to not enough (which I used to contribute to MS)
Bleeding-- that one episode was the worst, but there has been others--very mild.  Some stools I though looked dark
Severe pain in an area before having to go to the bathroom (like my side).  After the stool passes through the area, relief.  I've had a long history of this.  
Fever-- typically in the late afternoons about 99.5 - 100 degrees.  Then, periods of no fever
hypothyroidism
MS
migraines
high blood pressure
history of lupus-like symptoms, but several (three) rheumatologists say no

What does this sound like to you?

Thanks,
Deb

6 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
1728693 tn?1332165262
Glad we could help!
Helpful - 0
429700 tn?1308007823
Thanks a million for the web sites.  This is exactly what I'm looking for.

Deb
Helpful - 0
1728693 tn?1332165262
This might be beneficial and you might want to check it out -

Ulcerative Colitis Diet and Nutrition

http://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/ulcerative-colitis-diet-9/default.htm

There's also a book, among others, called  - Crohn's & Colitis Diet Guide on Amazon if you're looking for diet alternatives and recipe ideas.

More info on gastroparesis - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001342/

It might be something to follow up on as suggested by greeneyes247724
Helpful - 0
946915 tn?1271941032
I have several of the same issues that you mentioned.  I have been told I have moderate to severe gastroparesis.  I have had tons of tests done...none showed anything until I had a gastric emptying test done which showed this.

I did find a really cool website www.gicare.com...they have a tab for every type of diet you can imagine.  I hope this helps a little... : )

Kristen
Helpful - 0
429700 tn?1308007823
Thanks for the link.  I've not tried the Beano, but I think it's worth a try.  I will try anything--my stomach is huge!  After looking at pictures of myself at my daughter's wedding and bridal shower, I couldn't believe how huge my stomach looked!  

I didn't see any other suggestion for helping with the distention.  I will definetly avoid beans and try to cut out my sodas (which I have a couple of a day).  I don't eat many things with fructose.  Do you know of a diet that is good to avoid problems with colitis?  I'm thinking that this could be my problem.  The mucous issue happens even when passing gas (ewwww, gross), so I have to be careful and never trust a fart (LOL).  I know this isn't a funny issue, but couldn't resist adding a little humor in something causing so much stress!

Thanks,
Deb
Helpful - 0
1728693 tn?1332165262
Have you tried any Alpha-galactosidase supplements like Beano to see if it reduces the gas in your intestines and hopefully bloating?

I always thought mucous in a BM was typically due to some obstruction or a possible  problem with diverticular pockets. A colonoscopy should have found diverticular pockets  though - mild or otherwise - they are usually documented in the final report to your primary care physician.

There's more info here - http://www.acg.gi.org/patients/gihealth/belching.asp
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Gastroenterology Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Learn which OTC medications can help relieve your digestive troubles.
Is a gluten-free diet right for you?
Discover common causes of and remedies for heartburn.
This common yet mysterious bowel condition plagues millions of Americans
Don't get burned again. Banish nighttime heartburn with these quick tips
Get answers to your top questions about this pervasive digestive problem