What could be the cause of left abdominal tightness and pain?

Doctor's Answers 1

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Dr Jason Lim

Colorectal Surgeon

It appears that you have two issues which may or may not be related. Left lower quadrant abdominal tightness and pain, which occurs episodically through the day, is described as colic. In a 26 year old gentleman, the causes of left lower quadrant abdominal colic can originate from the bowels (intestines) or the urinary tract (ureters). In other cases, the discomfort can be due to nerve related issues (known as referred pain) or abdominal wall musculature, especially if it is related to movement.

Your second complaint of blood stains noted on the toilet paper after bowel movement, suggests bleeding possibly from your anal canal. This is often due to trauma to your anal canal from hard stools, prolonged sitting, or straining when passing motion. However, it is not uncommon for the bleeding to originate from other causes in the rectum or colon.

Both your complaints require a detailed history-taking and physical examination by your doctor to determine the appropriate investigations to confirm the diagnosis. This will then guide the treatment towards the source of the issues, allowing you to achieve a long term resolution of your symptoms, as well as prevent future recurrences of the issues above.

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What is the difference between IBS and gastritis?

Gastritis refers to inflammation of the inner lining of the stomach. The diagnosis is made by gastroscopy and biopsy, but can often be suspected based on symptoms. IBS is a condition affecting the intestines, and is thought to be due to problems with the muscles and nerves of the intestine, which in turn causes problems with gut movement and sensitivity. IBS diagnosed using symptoms, and endoscopy and biopsy would be normal. Based on your predominant symptoms of bloating and excessive flatulence, your problem might be neither gastritis nor IBS.

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Answered By

Dr Jarrod Lee

Gastroenterologist

Do I need a colonoscopy for tailbone and anal pain to rule out cancer?

Hi, The description of your symptoms appear to be proctalgia ani. While it literally translate to "pain in your anus", the persistence of your symptoms warrants a physical examination by a doctor. The causes can range anywhere from an anal fissure (tear in your anus), to deep anal infections, to referred pain from somewhere else e. g. coccydynia / pelvic floor strain (from your weight lifting), and stress.

Photo of Dr Jason Lim

Answered By

Dr Jason Lim

Colorectal Surgeon

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