Struggling with Ongoing Abdominal Pain for Almost a Week
Hello everyone, I'm a 17-year-old female facing severe abdominal discomfort that has persisted for nearly a week. Alongside the debilitating cramps, I frequently feel the need to urinate, and I also experience an urge to have a bowel movement, although I have not been able to relieve myself at all over the last six days. I visited both my family doctor and the emergency room, where the medical team diagnosed me with gastroenteritis each time. They prescribed pain relief medications and probiotics, but unfortunately, these treatments have not alleviated my symptoms. My condition remains unchanged, with pain intensifying and the urgency to have diarrhea increasing. An X-ray examination showed no signs of fecal blockage, and a rectal exam revealed no immediate obstructions. There was a slight swelling in my intestines, but otherwise, no significant inflammation was noted. The pain is relentless, and my urges to use the restroom seem never-ending. The doctors have recommended adjusting my diet, yet nothing seems to make a difference, leaving me feeling utterly frustrated and helpless.
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 12:10:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand how distressing and frustrating it must be to deal with ongoing abdominal pain and other symptoms for such an extended period. Let’s break down your situation and explore some immediate actions you can take to alleviate these symptoms.
The combination of abdominal pain, frequent urges to urinate, and constipation suggests that there may be several underlying factors at play. While gastroenteritis typically resolves on its own, your persistent symptoms warrant a thorough review and considerations for further management.
Explanation:
- Gastroenteritis typically causes symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain but usually resolves within a few days. Since your symptoms have persisted for a week, it could be beneficial to consider other possible issues such as a functional bowel disorder (like irritable bowel syndrome), dietary intolerances, or even stress and anxiety.
- The lack of bowel movements over these six days followed by persistent abdominal pain might indicate a need for further attention. Your recent X-ray showing no blockage is reassuring, but discomfort remains a significant concern.
Next Steps:
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Diet Adjustments: Focus on a low-fiber diet temporarily, as high-fiber foods can sometimes exacerbate issues involving the gut. Try simple, bland foods (like rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast) that are less likely to irritate your system.
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Hydration: Ensure you drink plenty of fluids, particularly water and electrolyte solutions, to stay hydrated, especially since you've had ongoing symptoms. Adequate hydration can help if there is any constipation or discomfort.
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Over-the-Counter Medications: If you haven't yet, consider over-the-counter anti-gas medications like simethicone, which can help alleviate bloating and cramping. Additionally, mild laxatives (like polyethylene glycol) can be considered to relieve constipation, but use them judiciously and monitor how you feel.
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Stress Management: Explore relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or gentle yoga, which can sometimes help alleviate abdominal discomfort and stress-caused symptoms.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Maintain a detailed journal of your symptoms, foods consumed, fluid intake, and any other relevant details. This can help identify triggers or patterns when sharing with healthcare providers in the future.
If your symptoms continue to worsen or if you develop new symptoms like fever or severe pain, it’s essential to seek further medical evaluation. Your health is a priority, and it’s crucial to ensure no underlying issues are being overlooked.
Please take care, and I hope your symptoms begin to improve soon! Let me know if you need further assistance or have more questions.
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