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Gastroenterology  (Expert Forum)
 | 
not sure what this is
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.

not sure what this is

by clerty, Jul 15, 2005 12:00AM
Hi
I have been having a lot of stomach cramps for a few months off and on,I am not sure if it is IBS or Gall stones,I feel that there is just something not right,I am on anti depressents at the moment,I know that IBS can flare up as a result of stress.the pain I get is like a stabbing feeling and can keep me awake at night,I notice that after a stool movement,there is always a funny type of substance on the toilet paper,these bouts can last for about a week,any idea?could it be a food intolarence.

by Kevin Pho, MD, Jul 15, 2005 12:00AM
Either is possible.  Also possible is GERD, an ulcer, and inflammation of the upper digestive tract.

An upper GI series with blood tests for the bacteria H Pylori is a reasonable approach to this symptom.  If negative, you can consider an ultrasound to evaluate the liver and gallbladder.

If the tests continue to be negative, you can consider an upper endoscopy for a more thorough evaluation, or optimizing treatment for irritable bowel disease (i.e. increasing fiber or using antispasmodic agents).

You can discuss these options with your personal physician or gastroenterologist.

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
Member Comments (4)

by astros18, Jul 15, 2005 12:00AM
clerty, where is the pain? right or left side, under ribcage, stomach area between ribcage? also, what kind of funny substance on your toilet paper? is it greasy or mucousy and what color? are you having pain in the back of your throat, stabbing pains in your back?

by can'thangnomore, Jul 15, 2005 12:00AM
how do i relief myself of gas

by yoshi, Jul 15, 2005 12:00AM
relieving gas -take gas-x or extra strength gas -x,alkaselzer,baking soda in water,chewing gum.

by clerty, Jul 22, 2005 12:00AM
Hi my stools are kind of light colour,I wake up in the morning feeling sick a lot,the pain is unlike helicobacter that I have had before,I have no acid reflux,just stabbing pains,a feeling like someone has winded me,I do tend to have gas,I am sitting at the moment,and it feels like a band round my gut.I noticed my stool today was light couloured today.
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