Is It Splenic Flexure Syndrome or Something Different?
Hello! I am a 34-year-old woman who underwent an emergency gallbladder removal surgery in January 2025. About six months afterward, I began experiencing unexpected cramps in the upper left quadrant of my abdomen. These cramps tend to manifest at unpredictable times, such as when I am seated in front of my computer, during Pilates core exercises like the V-sit, or while bending down to tie my shoes. Although these cramps do not happen every time I engage in these activities, when they do occur, I feel a sharp sensation akin to a charley horse in the same region, which typically subsides when I straighten my posture. My primary care physician suspects it may be Splenic Flexure Syndrome (SFS), especially since a CT scan performed to assess for a hernia yielded normal results. This has led my doctor to feel more assured in the diagnosis of SFS, but the consistency of the cramps, confined to the same area and triggered by certain movements, makes me wonder if there could be something else at play. Additionally, on a recent occasion when I bent down to fasten my shoes, I felt another intense cramp, and afterward, I noticed a persistent dull ache in that area (I also did some crunches around the same time, which might be a factor as well). Other Relevant Information: The CT scan also revealed a uterine fibroid. I am not currently using any form of birth control, and I have been diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia, sleep apnea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). My height is 5’2” and my weight is 215 pounds, with additional weight concentrated around my midsection. A blood test conducted in December indicated normal results, apart from low iron levels. Medication: I take an iron supplement and a daily dose of lansoprazole.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 5:40:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
It seems you're experiencing abdominal cramps and discomfort, which your doctor suspects may be due to Splenic Flexure Syndrome (SFS). Understanding your symptoms and their potential causes is important, especially since you've had abdominal surgery and other health conditions. Let's break this down.
Summary of Main Points:
- Your symptoms may align with Splenic Flexure Syndrome, but other factors could also contribute.
- It's essential to monitor your symptoms, as they are influenced by specific movements and exercises.
- Addressing lifestyle factors and managing stress on the digestive system will be critical.
Explanation:
Splenic Flexure Syndrome involves discomfort due to trapped gas in the splenic flexure of the colon, which is often exacerbated by certain activities or positions. Your symptoms in relation to physical activity and certain movements could indeed be linked to gas. However, the sharpness of the cramps, especially after certain positions or activities, makes it reasonable to consider other possibilities, such as muscular strain or even irritation from your fibroid.
The combination of your existing conditions (GERD, anemia, and the presence of a fibroid) suggests an intersection of factors that may be affecting your abdominal region. It’s crucial to keep an eye on these symptoms, particularly if they persist or worsen, as it could indicate an underlying issue needing further evaluation.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a daily journal of when symptoms occur, their intensity, and what activities you were doing beforehand. This will help identify any patterns you can address.
- Adjust Your Activity: If certain movements trigger pain (like bending or doing core exercises), modify these activities. Focus on gentle stretching and low-impact exercises that do not strain your core or abdomen.
- Dietary Adjustments: Given your GERD, eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding gas-producing foods (like beans, carbonated drinks, and cruciferous vegetables) might help mitigate cramps. Staying hydrated is also beneficial.
- Improved Posture: Pay attention to your sitting and bending posture to limit the strain on your abdominal area, particularly when at your computer or during exercise.
- Assess Stress Levels: Emotional stress can contribute to physical symptoms. Simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, might also provide relief.
If symptoms persist or worsen despite these adjustments, further evaluation with your healthcare provider could be necessary to rule out other conditions or adjustments in your treatment plan. Please let me know if you need additional support or specific guidance related to any point!
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