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Persistent left abdominal pain over the last week
Hello,
31 - M - 6ft - 230 Lbs - Non smoker
A year ago, I started getting a random ache on my left side and when I brought it up to my Doctor, she put me on a round of antibiotics and sent me for an abdominal/pelvic CT scan. Everything came back unremarkable except a tiny questionable hiatal hernia. When she received the results, she put diverticulitis as my diagnosis in my charts but never actually told me that or even followed up with me about it.
Fast forward to about a month ago, I started getting the pain again but it was more intermittent so I figured maybe it was my bad diet causing it. However, it has now become more persistent over the last week or so but is still intermittent if that makes sense.
The pain feels like someone is jabbing 2 fingers into my left side. It's not sharp but it's just there and uncomfortable. I can easily pinpoint where it's hurting and if I press the area, it hurts. I notice if I eat heavier meals, I feel really bloated and it hurts worse. I tried eating less heavier meals thinking it would help but it's still lingering.
When I go to sleep, it's sometimes gone the next morning and just comes back on its own later on in the day or evening without any notable trigger. I also tried Gas-X but all that does is take away the bloated feeling and the ache still lingering.
No additional symptoms except my stools always being loose and orange/floating but that's been that way for 2 years now.
I'm worried about it being something serious but right now I don't qualify for health insurance because I'm on workers comp so I'm going to go to a sliding scale clinic to get an ultrasound if that's feasible as I can't afford a CT scan out of pocket.
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@tjm520
What did you injure in the job that has put you in workers compensation? Are you on a leave of absence from work now? Did you have health insurance before going on workers compensation? You should be eligible for FMLA job protection and continuation of medical coverage. If you were terminated from work, you should have been offered COBRA medical coverage.
If you are eligible, you may qualify for social security disability and supplemental income to help you pay for coverage. Have you looked into this?
It sounds like you may need a gastroenterologist to do an endoscopy and colonoscopy plus ultrasound and HIDA scan of your gallbladder. You could have a malfunctioning gallbladder that can cause pain/discomfort in your abdomen. You need to see a nutritionist to review diet and supplements to make healthy changes to help you lose weight. Your weight for your height is too high and could be contributing to your abdominal discomfort. You may be better at 175-185 pounds and have fewer symptoms. Have you had extensive bloodwork to check glucose/A1C, liver and kidney function, iron, thyroid, etc.?
@tjm520
Here is some information I gathered from AI about the orange listing stools and potential causes for you to follow up with your doctor about.
Potential Causes of Orange Floating Stool
Orange floating stool can be attributed to several factors, ranging from dietary choices to health conditions. Here are some common causes:
Diet
High Carotenoid Intake: Foods rich in carotenoids, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins, can cause stool to take on an orange hue.
Certain Food Coloring: Consumption of food or drinks with artificial orange coloring can lead to changes in stool color.
Digestive Health
Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease or pancreatitis can impair nutrient absorption, leading to floating stools that may also be discolored.
Fat Malabsorption: Floating stools can indicate excess fat in the stool, often related to malabsorption issues.
Medication or Supplements
Iron Supplements: These can alter stool color and texture.
Medications: Certain medications might also lead to changes in stool appearance.
Gastrointestinal Conditions
Infections: Gastrointestinal infections may cause changes in stool consistency and color.
Liver or Gallbladder Issues: These can also affect digestion and stool appearance due to bile production and fat digestion.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience other symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or any ongoing changes in your stool, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
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1 ReactionI don't want to worry you, but I went years with doctors telling me nothing was wrong after doing multiple scopes. The pain you are describing was very similar to mine. After a CAT they found diverticulitis. Sometimes it can be treated with antibiotics with good success. Wondering why your doctor charted that diagnosis, but did not treat it in any way. Very strange. I ended up having to be operated on. Hopefully you can find a Dr. who will work with you using meds. first.
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2 Reactions@nannybb I agree with the diverticulitis possibility. I had 2 bouts of it and several years later my colon ruptured. Doctors said no relation between the two, however I still wonder. When it comes to GI issues, I take it very seriously.
As well you should! Rupture
That HAD to hurt 😞