What causes constipation pain on the right side. How to differentiate between harmless and serious causes of side pain. When should you seek medical attention for abdominal discomfort.

Understanding Side Pain: Common Causes and Symptoms

Side pain, particularly on the right side, can be a source of concern for many individuals. While it’s often harmless, it’s essential to understand the potential causes and recognize when medical attention is necessary. Dr. Matthew Souder, a general surgeon at Geisinger, emphasizes the importance of paying attention to specific factors when experiencing side pain.

To help identify the cause of your discomfort, consider the following questions:

• Does the pain intensify when standing or sitting?
• Is it more noticeable when breathing in or out?
• Does the pain remain constant, or does it fluctuate?

Dr. Souder advises seeking immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms:

• Severe pain
• Fever
• Abdominal swelling and tenderness
• Bloody stools
• Yellowing of the skin
• Persistent nausea and vomiting

Gas and Constipation: The Most Common Culprits

Often, the root cause of side pain is directly related to what you’ve consumed. Gas and constipation are frequently the culprits behind abdominal discomfort, and while they can cause significant pain, they’re usually not harmful.

How to Identify Gas and Constipation Pain

Gas and constipation pains have distinct characteristics:

• They can occur throughout the abdomen
• The pain is typically inconsistent
• Discomfort may come and go
• Pain levels can change based on your position
• Relief often comes within an hour or after a bowel movement

Are there effective ways to prevent gas and constipation? Indeed, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing these issues. Additionally, avoiding foods known to cause gas and practicing stress-reduction techniques can help alleviate symptoms.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Common Digestive Disorder

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent condition affecting the large intestine. It can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, which may be felt throughout the belly area but is often more noticeable in the lower abdomen.

Key Facts About IBS

• IBS severity can range from mild to severe
• It often runs in families
• Triggers can include food, stress, and hormonal changes
• Common symptoms include cramps, pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation

Can IBS be effectively managed? Absolutely. While there’s no cure for IBS, symptoms can be managed through dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, and in some cases, medication prescribed by a healthcare provider. It’s crucial to consult with a doctor if you suspect you have IBS, as they can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Kidney and Gallstones: When Minerals Cause Mayhem

Stones forming in the kidneys or gallbladder can be a source of intense pain. Kidney stones are mineral deposits that can form and harden in the kidneys, while gallstones are composed of cholesterol and bile.

Distinguishing Between Kidney and Gallstone Pain

• Kidney stone pain can be felt on either side
• Gallstone pain is typically experienced on the right side
• Both types of stones can cause excruciating pain

Is surgery always necessary for kidney or gallstones? Not always. While some kidney stones may pass naturally, more severe cases might require surgical intervention. If you experience severe, radiating pain that persists for more than a day, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor to determine the best course of action.

Appendicitis: A Medical Emergency

Appendicitis, an infection of the appendix, is one of the most serious causes of abdominal pain. Dr. Souder emphasizes that it’s a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention and surgical intervention.

Recognizing Appendicitis Symptoms

Be alert for the following signs that may indicate appendicitis:

• Pain, especially on the right side
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Why is prompt treatment crucial for appendicitis? Delayed treatment of appendicitis can lead to serious complications, including rupture of the appendix, which can cause widespread infection in the abdominal cavity. This condition, known as peritonitis, is potentially life-threatening and requires immediate surgical intervention.

Urinary Tract Infections: A Common Yet Painful Condition

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are extremely common, particularly among women. If your side pain is accompanied by painful urination and frequent urges to use the bathroom, a UTI could be the culprit.

UTI Symptoms to Watch For

• Burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain (in women)

How are UTIs typically treated? Most UTIs can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. It’s important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated. Drinking plenty of water and urinating frequently can also help flush out bacteria and speed up recovery.

Muscle Strains and Joint Injuries: When Movement Hurts

Sometimes, the source of side pain isn’t internal at all. Strained muscles, arthritis, or spinal injuries can cause pain that radiates from your back to your side.

Managing Musculoskeletal Pain

If your pain is muscular in nature, try these approaches:

• Rest the affected area
• Apply ice or heat
• Perform gentle stretching exercises
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers

When should you see a doctor for muscle or joint pain? If your pain persists despite home remedies, or if it’s accompanied by swelling, redness, or difficulty moving, it’s time to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess the injury and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include physical therapy, medication, or in some cases, surgical intervention.

Shingles: When Chickenpox Returns with a Vengeance

Contrary to popular belief, shingles can affect people of all ages, not just the elderly. If you had chickenpox as a child, side pain might be the first sign of a shingles infection.

Recognizing Shingles Symptoms

• Intense pain on one side of the body
• Blistering rash (may appear after initial pain)
• Sensitivity to touch
• Itching
• Fever and fatigue

Why is early detection of shingles important? Identifying shingles early can help reduce pain and shorten the duration of the infection. Antiviral medications are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing. If you suspect shingles, even before a rash develops, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Side Pain

While many causes of side pain are benign, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Dr. Souder advises seeking medical care if:

• The pain is severe
• It interferes with your daily activities
• You experience persistent fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits
• The pain is accompanied by difficulty breathing or chest pain

Should you err on the side of caution when it comes to side pain? Absolutely. Dr. Souder emphasizes that even if the cause turns out to be harmless, it’s better to be sure. A medical professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment, giving you peace of mind and potentially preventing more serious complications.

Diagnostic Approaches for Side Pain

When you visit a healthcare provider for side pain, they may use various diagnostic tools to determine the cause:

• Physical examination
• Blood tests
• Urine analysis
• Imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds)
• Endoscopic procedures

How can you prepare for a medical appointment about side pain? Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they started, what makes them better or worse, and any other accompanying symptoms. This information can help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.

Preventive Measures for Common Causes of Side Pain

While not all causes of side pain are preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk of certain conditions:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber
• Stay hydrated
• Exercise regularly
• Practice good hygiene to prevent UTIs
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques
• Get vaccinated against shingles if you’re eligible

Can lifestyle changes significantly impact the frequency of side pain? Indeed, adopting healthy habits can reduce the occurrence of many common causes of side pain, such as constipation, gas, and certain types of infections. However, it’s important to remember that some causes of side pain, like appendicitis or kidney stones, may not be preventable through lifestyle changes alone.

The Importance of Open Communication with Healthcare Providers

When dealing with side pain or any health concern, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns about your symptoms or treatment options.

Some key questions to ask your doctor might include:

• What do you think is causing my side pain?
• Are there any tests I should undergo to confirm the diagnosis?
• What treatment options are available, and what are their potential side effects?
• How can I prevent this issue from recurring in the future?
• When should I follow up or seek additional care?

How can effective communication with your doctor improve your health outcomes? By providing your healthcare provider with detailed information about your symptoms and concerns, you enable them to make more accurate diagnoses and tailor treatment plans to your specific needs. This collaborative approach can lead to more effective management of your health and better overall outcomes.

The Role of Mental Health in Physical Pain

It’s important to recognize that mental health can play a significant role in how we experience physical pain, including side pain. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to or exacerbate physical symptoms.

Consider these points about the mind-body connection:

• Stress can cause muscle tension, leading to physical discomfort
• Anxiety may heighten sensitivity to pain
• Depression can lower pain thresholds
• Chronic pain can contribute to mental health issues

How can addressing mental health improve physical symptoms? By managing stress, seeking treatment for anxiety or depression, and practicing mindfulness techniques, you may find that your physical symptoms, including side pain, become more manageable. It’s essential to address both physical and mental health when dealing with persistent pain issues.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments

Medical science is continuously advancing, and new research is shedding light on the causes and potential treatments for various types of pain, including side pain. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Novel pain management techniques
• Genetic factors influencing pain perception
• The role of the microbiome in digestive health and pain
• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnoses
• Targeted therapies for specific types of pain

What potential breakthroughs might we see in pain management in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific outcomes, ongoing research in areas such as personalized medicine, nanotechnology, and neuroscience holds promise for more effective and tailored approaches to pain management. These advancements could lead to better diagnostic tools and more targeted treatments for various causes of side pain, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life for many patients.

As we continue to learn more about the complex nature of pain and its various causes, it’s crucial to stay informed and work closely with healthcare providers to manage and treat side pain effectively. Remember, while side pain can be concerning, many causes are treatable, and with proper care and attention, most individuals can find relief and maintain their overall health and well-being.

Ouch! What’s That Pain in My Side?

Maybe it started off small. Maybe it suddenly came out of nowhere. Whatever it is, you’re having pain in your side. But where did it come from? And should you be worried?

“Pain in your side or in your abdomen is a common complaint, and it’s a common reason for people to visit the emergency room,” explains Matthew Souder, MD, a general surgeon at Geisinger. 

But the cause of your pain can range from harmless to serious, and it’s not always easy to pin down. Here are a few things to look out for.

Common causes of side pain

To help narrow down what’s behind the pain, Dr. Souder suggests paying attention to a few specific factors.

“If you’re having pain in your side, keep track of it and see what aggravates it,” says Dr. Souder. “Does it hurt more when you stand or sit? When you breathe in or breathe out? Does it always hurt the same amount or is it off and on?” 

Having severe pain, fever, swelling and tenderness of the abdomen, bloody stools, yellowing of the skin or persistent nausea and vomiting are nothing to brush off, though. See a doctor immediately for any of these symptoms.

Some common causes include:

Gas and constipation

The most common reason for the pain in your side is what you ate or drank. Gas or constipation is usually the biggest false alarm when it comes to abdominal pain. Each can cause fairly strong pain, but they usually aren’t harmful. 

Gas and constipation pains can happen throughout your abdomen, and they can usually be identified by their inconsistency: it may come and go, and it will change depending on how you’re sitting or standing. The pain should subside within an hour or shortly after a bowel movement. 

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common condition that affects the large intestine by causing spasms. You can feel this pain throughout your belly area, but most people notice it in their lower abdomen.

“Cases of IBS can range anywhere from mild to severe, and it often runs in families,” notes Dr. Souder. “Factors like food, stress and hormones can trigger IBS, causing symptoms like cramps, pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. ”

If you have IBS symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can diagnose whether you do have IBS and prescribe medication if necessary.

Stones

Stones aren’t just something you find outside — they may show up in your kidneys or your gallbladder, too.

Kidney stones are deposits of salt and minerals that can form and harden in your kidneys. Gallstones are deposits made from cholesterol and bile. Gallstone pain is usually felt on the right side, while kidney stones can be felt on either side.

“Kidney stones and gallstones can cause excruciating pain,” says Dr. Sounder. “You may pass kidney stones naturally, but in more severe cases, they may require surgery. Talk to your doctor if you have severe, radiating pain that lasts for more than a day.”

Appendicitis

Pain (especially on your right side) paired with fever, vomiting and loss of appetite could indicate appendicitis, which requires emergency medical attention.

“One of the most serious reasons for abdominal pain is appendicitis,” adds Dr. Souder. “Appendicitis, or an infection of the appendix, can be a life-threatening condition. It’s considered a medical emergency, and surgery is required to remove the appendix.”

Urinary tract infection

If your side pain is accompanied by painful urination and needing to use the bathroom often, it might be a urinary tract infection (UTI). This bacterial infection is extremely common, especially in women, and it’s best to see a doctor for treatment.

Muscle or joint injuries

Strained muscles, arthritis or spinal injuries can all cause pain that spreads from your back to your side. If your pain is muscular, a combination of rest and light stretching exercises could help. If nothing seems to help, it’s time to talk to your doctor.

Shingles

Did you have chickenpox as a kid? If so, side pain might be the first sign of a shingles infection. Despite the common myth, shingles affects people of all ages, causing intense pain on one side of the body and a blistering rash.  

Early detection can help reduce your pain and the length of the infection — let your primary care provider know as soon as you suspect shingles, even if a rash hasn’t formed yet.

When to see a doctor

Pinpointing the cause of your discomfort starts with paying attention to your body. Whether it’s something as simple as gas or more serious like appendicitis, sharing what you’ve noticed with your doctor can help them come up with the best treatment plan for you.

“If the pain is severe or interrupting your ability to go about your day, get medical attention,” says Dr. Souder. “Even if it isn’t anything dangerous, it’s still better to be sure.”

Next steps: 

What are the signs of a hernia?
Reasons you might be gassy
Are you getting enough fiber?

7 Possible Causes For The Pain In Your Lower Right Abdomen

Many reasons can cause pain in the lower right abdomen. Some of these causes are severe and may need immediate medical attention. The abdomen is the body space between the chest and pelvis. It contains all the digestive organs, and the lower right portion of the abdomen contains a part of the colon, right kidney, and the appendix.

Abdominal pain is never normal, so it is vital to get it checked out when you have serious symptoms. The presence of different symptoms can help identify the cause or decide whether you need immediate care. Read on to learn more about the causes for pain in the lower right abdomen!

The common causes of lower right abdominal pain

Most of the time, lower right abdominal pain comes from minor and temporary conditions. Here are some common causes of them:

Indigestion

The pain in the lower right abdomen could be a result of indigestion, which may be accompanied by other symptoms such as heartburn and flatulence. Over-the-counter medicine from your local pharmacy could help you manage occasional cases of indigestion. However, if the symptoms last for more than 2 weeks, you may need more serious medical attention.

Gas

Gas can build up in the intestines when food is not digested properly. This may cause feelings of discomfort and bloating. Other symptoms include burping and passing gas.

Constipation

Constipation is infrequent bowel movements or having difficulty passing stools that persists for a few days. In more serious cases, chronic constipation can last for several weeks. In addition to feeling pain in the lower right abdomen, some other symptoms include having hard or lumpy stools, straining to have bowel movements, or feeling blockage in your rectum.

Serious causes of lower right abdominal pain

In some cases, lower right abdominal pain can indicate a more serious medical condition. These conditions require immediate medical care:

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is the infection of the appendix. This happens when the appendix is blocked by waste, a foreign object in your body, or cancer. It is a medical emergency and mostly requires you to have immediate surgery to remove the appendix. Appendicitis typically comes with symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, and pain in your lower right abdomen.

 Kidney stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidney. When it passes through the urinary system, some of the larger stones may get stuck and cause severe pain to the abdomen, lower back, and groin. Some other symptoms experienced may include blood in the urine, pain when urinating, vomiting, and feeling nauseous.

Kidney infection

The kidney can become infected due to bacteria in the urinary system. Although it is less severe than kidney stones, it can cause pain that is felt in the lower abdomen, and medical attention is required to prevent any permanent damage.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a chronic condition of the digestive system that has to be managed long-term. The symptoms include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, diarrhea or constipation. It should be taken seriously when you notice a persistent change in bowel habits or other symptoms as they may indicate a more serious condition, such as colon cancer.

Conclusion

Mild abdominal pain that goes away on its own may not require any medical treatment. However, if you have any persisting, severe, stabbing, or sudden pain, you should talk to a medical professional, as you never know when it might be a life-threatening condition.

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Constipation pain – causes and treatment

Pain in constipation
Pain in constipation – causes and treatment | Phytomucil Norm
What to do with abdominal pain with constipation? What are the causes of pain with constipation in an adult, what prevention and treatment are needed – in the article. Phytomucil Norm – official site
Phytomucil Norm

Pain with constipation is one of the main symptoms, although they are not a criterion for determining the delay in defecation in general. Many patients associate the onset of pain with difficulty defecation.

Can the stomach hurt from constipation

Constipation (colostasis) is characterized by difficulty in defecation, low frequency of stools, insufficient bowel movements. Signs of constipation also include the absence of a bowel movement for two days or more, hard dry stools. Other signs may be observed – symptoms of general intoxication, excessive sweating, general poor health, headaches. Problems with bowel movements are often accompanied by pain in the abdomen, rectum and stomach. All this causes physical discomfort and may indicate the presence of serious diseases.

Why constipation hurts

As a result of impaired mobility, feces accumulate inside the intestines, which gradually provokes intoxication. The accumulated stool presses on the walls of the intestine, causing pain. In addition, with constipation, gas formation increases, the discharge of gases is disturbed. It also causes pain and discomfort. In some cases, pain can be felt not only in the lower abdomen, but also on the right, on the left, as well as in the region of the right hypochondrium and lower back.

Researchers note that the acute pain associated with constipation is more likely to result from spasms. So, Shulpekova draws attention to the fact that stool retention is accompanied by “pains of a spastic nature.” (Shulpekova Yu. O., 2007, p. 1165). Indeed, spasms of smooth muscles that occur in response to a mechanical stimulus in the form of dense feces and accumulated gases are felt by us as cramps, cramping pains. Localization of pain in this case can be completely different. It all depends on the specific section of the intestine that is affected at the moment, as well as when exposed to other factors earlier.

Causes of constipation pain

Defecation disorders occur for various reasons:

• Improper diet and sedentary lifestyle. Due to the imbalance of the diet and insufficient physical activity, motor skills are disturbed, an imbalance of microflora occurs. As a result, constipation appears.
• Colon anomalies – long colon and/or sigmoid colon.
• Diverticular disease of the colon.
• Diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. As a result of these diseases, physiological obstacles appear that impede the movement of feces.
• Diseases of the nervous system, endocrine and gynecological pathologies – inhibit metabolic processes in the body.
• Irritable bowel syndrome – discomfort during bowel movements, accompanied by a change in the consistency and / or frequency of the stool.
• Taking certain medications.

Constipation is often associated with antidepressants, antibiotics and other medications. Also, problems with bowel movements often occur during pregnancy, after childbirth and in the postoperative period.

Signs of intestinal stasis indicating serious pathology include blood in the stool, severe abdominal distention (tympanitis), weight loss, and vomiting.

Therefore, as we see, the causes of pain in constipation may be hidden in the causes of defecation disorders themselves. In the absence of organic and other pathologies, discomfort may be associated with tissue compression, stretching of the intestinal walls and their resistance to pressure, and irritation of receptors. Sometimes pain is accompanied by false urges to defecate and urges that did not bring the desired result. In most cases, pain can occur in the interval between urges, and in their absence.

Possible complications of constipation

Frequent constipation may be accompanied by heaviness in the abdomen and pain before, during or after a bowel movement. Such problems can lead to unpleasant consequences. The most frequent complications: +

• poisoning of the organism;
• exacerbation of hemorrhoids;
• rectal fissures;
• cancer risk.

General intoxication due to stagnant feces can cause a deterioration in well-being, a decrease in working capacity. Violation of the intestinal microbial balance in chronic constipation leads to an exacerbation of allergic diseases, skin rashes, and a decrease in the body’s resistance to infections.

People with chronic constipation are known to have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. Delayed bowel movements lead to impaired cholesterol metabolism and the development of atherosclerosis, and consequently, cardiovascular diseases.

Diseases of the anorectal region often accompany constipation. This is due to the fact that dense fecal masses injure the mucous membranes of the rectum, which causes anal fissures. An increase in intra-abdominal pressure can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids.

How pain manifests itself

Pain in constipation occurs due to the accumulation of stool in the large intestine. Dense feces stretch the intestinal walls, resulting in compression and disruption of other internal organs.

The discomfort associated with constipation varies. Pain can occur in the abdomen, sphincter area, lower back, groin. Soreness during the act of defecation often occurs due to the appearance of cracks in the anal area, the development of hemorrhoids, and inflammation of the rectum. Pain often appears during the urge to empty, as well as between them.

Sometimes the pain of constipation in adults comes on suddenly during a bowel movement. This is due to diseases of the digestive tract: pancreatitis, appendicitis, cholecystitis. Only a doctor can determine the true cause of constipation and pain. If bowel problems are permanent, it is best to undergo a complete medical examination.

Character pain

When constipation occurs, pain sensations differ in severity and localization. If the lower abdomen hurts, then most likely constipation is caused by dietary errors, insufficient water intake. As a rule, the pain is dull, stabbing, accompanied by colic and rumbling. In this case, discomfort disappears immediately after defecation.

Acute and aching pain with constipation that does not go away after a bowel movement may indicate pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. The localization of pain depends on the cause of its occurrence. For example, in acute gastritis, the epigastric region hurts, heartburn and nausea are observed. For intestinal obstruction, the nature of pain in the left side, as well as fever. Chronic pancreatitis is accompanied by girdle or severe pain in the left or right hypochondrium.

Pain syndrome is often accompanied by loss of appetite, headache, heartburn, bad breath. In addition, with constipation, there is often a feeling of fullness, a feeling of a plug in the rectum. Hard stool damages the walls of the rectum and sphincter, hence causing pain that can persist long after a bowel movement.

Adnexal inflammation and other gynecological problems can also cause constipation. Problems with the intestines often occur against the background of kidney disease. In this case, the pain will be localized in the lumbar region, as well as in the lower abdomen.

Cramping pains resulting from spasms of the smooth muscles of the intestines, appear due to the accumulation of gases and intestinal colic. This greatly complicates the defecation process. With intestinal colic, the pain is pronounced and has an increasing character. With colic, tension in the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall, bloating and spasms are observed. This condition can last from several hours to several days. Colic is usually followed by persistent constipation or diarrhea.

Symptoms such as flatulence, bloating and constipation are often associated with irritable bowel syndrome. IBS is manifested by pain and bloating, which are accompanied by a change in the consistency of the stool.

The severity of unpleasant symptoms depends on the cause of constipation. This state of affairs cannot be left to chance. The first thing to do when unpleasant symptoms appear is to visit a general practitioner or gastroenterologist. The doctor will conduct the necessary diagnostics, prescribe tests and examinations to identify factors that provoke problems with defecation.

How to deal with constipation pain

Pain can only be completely eliminated after the main cause of constipation has been eliminated. No need to try to drown out the pain with painkillers – analgesics only stop the symptoms. The pain syndrome will pass on its own after cleansing and restoring normal bowel function.

Treatment for pain associated with constipation

In the fight against pain associated with constipation will help:

• Nutrition aimed at increasing the amount of fiber consumed. Diet is the main treatment for functional constipation caused by decreased intestinal motility.
• Lifestyle change. It involves increased physical activity, regular physical activity.
• Withdrawal of constipating drugs.

It is important to understand that it is not worth canceling the medicines prescribed by the doctor on your own. For example, if you are taking iron supplements that cause you to have a bowel movement, changing your dosage or stopping it on your own could make your iron deficiency anemia worse. Consult your physician for advice on alternative medications or dosage adjustments. Particular care should be taken when taking hormonal drugs, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, narcotic analgesics.

The main condition for getting rid of pain in the abdomen with constipation is the normalization of the stool. Symptomatic treatment in the form of taking painkillers and antispasmodics will not give a long-term result. In addition, it is worth remembering that in some cases constipation is associated with a weakening of intestinal motility – a change in the tone of its muscles. In this case, anti-spasm agents may exacerbate the underlying problem.

Foods high in fiber will help normalize stools. These include bran, white cabbage (fresh and sauerkraut), celery and other vegetables. Whole grains, such as bulgur and buckwheat, as well as nuts are rich in dietary fiber.

At the same time, it is better to avoid products that have a fixing effect. These include foods high in tannin: chocolate, black tea, red wine, white rice, etc. You should avoid pastries, sweets, bread and confectionery with cream – they increase gas formation and also provoke fermentation in the intestines.

Eat small meals, but often. Fractional nutrition 5-6 times a day will ensure a uniform supply of nutrients to the body, help to avoid stretching the walls of the stomach and intestines.

Medication should not be aimed at eliminating pain, but at its cause. Pain usually goes away with a bowel movement, so it is important to find the right way to quickly get rid of the problem. Laxatives can help with this. They are of several types:

• Osmotic, or saline, increase the volume of fluid in the intestines.
• Stimulants – act irritatingly on intestinal receptors, stimulating peristalsis.
• Volumetric – increase the volume of feces and change their consistency.
• Auxiliary – mechanically help the promotion of feces in the intestines (for example, oils).

There are also local preparations that irritate the mucous membranes of the rectum and soften the passage of feces. The use of cleansing enemas may also be appropriate, but often it is not recommended to resort to them due to possible violations of the local microflora.

Prevention of constipation pain

For the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, you need to drink enough water – at least 1.5-2 liters per day. If constipation is associated with a reduced tone of the intestinal muscles and is accompanied by spasms, it is recommended to drink cold mineral water. One glass of water on an empty stomach and before each meal will improve the consistency of feces and facilitate their passage through the intestines.

Also, water is involved in the process of diffusion of gases – part of the gases is absorbed from the intestines into the blood, so the optimal drinking regimen is effective as a way to prevent flatulence, including those associated with constipation.

It is important to avoid overeating and sudden dietary changes. It is necessary to minimize stress, observe sleep patterns. The researchers argue that following a daily routine will help prevent constipation: you should get up and go to bed at about the same time, allocate enough time to go to the toilet in the morning, after breakfast. In no case is it recommended to restrain the urge to defecate, as this can lead to both constipation and a decrease in the sensitivity of the gut receptors to stretch.

Recommendations regarding the diet for existing constipation also apply to prevention: try to eat enough foods rich in fiber, make your diet from lean meats and fish, cereals, dairy products, fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, berries.

Regular preventive visits to the doctor will help to exclude diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or detect them at an early stage. This is especially important if you are at risk for the development of disorders – you have an endocrine disease, pathologies of the digestive system, are limited in physical activity, etc.

You can prevent severe pain from constipation by observing your body: determine the optimal frequency of bowel movements, ideally, bowel movements should be every morning. If you hold a stool for at least one day, try to take immediate action if possible: increase the amount of fluid you drink, choose foods with a laxative effect.

Other methods of dealing with constipation

In most cases, pain disappears after the intestines are cleared of accumulated feces. But this is not always the case. If the pain persists and causes severe discomfort, you should visit a doctor. Only a specialist can determine what provokes pain.

Proper balanced nutrition is an excellent prevention of constipation. But this is not always enough to combat defecation disorders. To cope with constipation will help special means with a laxative effect. Among the safest preparations in terms of composition, Fitomucil Norm can be distinguished. It contains the pulp of the fruit of the house plum and the shell of the seeds of the psyllium. The drug provides regular and painless bowel movements, restores the normal frequency of stools. The remedy acts gently, does not cause bloating, sudden urge to defecate, does not provoke spasms and pain in the intestines. “Fitomucil Norm” helps to restore the microflora after constipation and is not addictive.

To improve the condition with severe constipation, you can use ready-made microclysters or glycerin suppositories. In some cases, it is advisable to use osmotic laxatives, drugs that soften the stool, as well as drugs to stimulate peristalsis. Any medications should be taken only in consultation with the doctor. The dosage is selected individually, taking into account the age and health of the patient.

Systematic exercise helps improve bowel function. For example, daily walking, swimming, cycling or gymnastics. There are exercises that improve intestinal motility, increase the tone of the abdominal muscles. In this case, the duration of training should be at least half an hour.

If you feel the urge to defecate, do not delay going to the toilet. Otherwise, compaction and stagnation of feces will occur, which will negatively affect the condition. If colostasis is accompanied by pain, general malaise, nausea and vomiting, rectal bleeding, or fever, you should immediately consult a doctor.

It is important to consult your doctor about constipation pain. There may be certain limitations, and only a specialist will tell you how to deal with the problem.

The article is for informational purposes only. The authors are not responsible for the quality of services provided by third parties and for possible complications.

References

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4. Makarenko EV Irritable bowel syndrome: dietary recommendations and principles of treatment // Bulletin of VSMU. – 2017. – T. 16, No. 6.
5. Shulpekova Yu.O. Algorithm for the treatment of constipation of various origins // Regular issues of BC. – 2007. – No. 15. – page 1165.

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Why my right side hurts and what to do about it

May 24

Likbez

Health

Lifehacker figured out how dangerous it is and when to call an ambulance.

Any pain in the right side is a reason to visit a doctor: too many serious diseases can be associated with it. During an attack, you can guess the source of pain by the location of the organs. But you won’t find out the exact reason yourself: sometimes it hurts in one place, but gives it away in another.

Vera Serezina

Senior physician, medical expert of the personalized medicine laboratory “LabQuest”

Only a doctor can determine what caused the pain in the right side. There are the gallbladder, pancreas, ascending colon, liver. So you need to check in any case, even if you think that you don’t have anything serious.

When to call an ambulance

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden and severe pain. Do not wait for the appearance of other dangerous symptoms, in some cases it can end in death.

Also call an ambulance if the pain is not severe, but there are these signs:

• fever;
• there is blood in the stool;
• pain worse;
• you feel sick or vomit.

Why my right side hurts

1. Appendicitis

This is the name of inflammation of the appendix, a small process of the large intestine. The first sign of appendicitis is a dull pain near the navel or in the upper part of the abdomen, which descends along its right side surface and becomes acute.

Pain may be accompanied by loss of appetite and fever up to 37–39 °C, nausea and vomiting, bloating.

What to do

There is a medical emergency and an operation. Therefore, immediately go to the hospital to see a surgeon or call an ambulance.

Your appendix will most likely be cut out laparoscopically through small incisions in the abdominal wall.

Anna Yurkevich

Gastroenterologist. Author of a blog about proper nutrition and digestive health

Scientists do not have convincing evidence of the negative impact of appendectomy (removal of the appendix) on human health. It is much worse not to have the operation, because the appendix may burst. Then peritonitis will begin – inflammation of the tissue that covers most of the abdominal organs.

2. Gallstones

When there are stones in the gallbladder, we may feel sudden and rapidly increasing pain in the upper right abdomen, under the breasts, in the back between the shoulder blades and even in the right shoulder. You may also experience nausea or vomiting.

Pain duration varies from a couple of minutes to several hours.

What to do

If these symptoms appear, you should either immediately go to the doctor or call an ambulance. Stones can cause inflammation of the gallbladder – cholecystitis, blockage of the pancreatic duct and, as a result, pancreatitis.

Anna Yurkevich

Frequent attacks of colic are an indication for removal of the gallbladder. This operation is called a cholecystectomy. It is usually done through small incisions in the abdominal wall.

At an early stage, when the stones are still small, you may be given medication to dissolve them.

3. Kidney stones

They cause sudden excruciating pain in the lower and side of the abdomen, but more often in the back. It either intensifies or weakens, it can radiate to the groin and be accompanied by painful urination.

What to do

A urologist will help you deal with the problem, so go to him right away. He will prescribe medicines for small stones.

Severe pain and large kidney stones may require hospitalization and surgery.

4. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or bloating

Gathering gases in the intestine stretch its walls and cause pain in different parts of the abdomen, including the right side.

Usually there is nothing serious about it. The only difference is that you can try to correct bloating with a diet, but IBS is a chronic disease, which means that it will either disappear or reappear.

What to do

To relieve symptoms, the gastroenterologist can prescribe different groups of drugs – he will select them individually. Sometimes a Low-FODMAP diet is recommended.

5. Inflammatory bowel disease

The most common are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

If the intestines become inflamed, you will feel pain, cramps and swelling in the abdomen. Other symptoms are bloody diarrhea, weight loss, and weakness.

The causes of inflammation are not exactly known, but experts suggest that it is genetics and problems with the immune system.

What to do

Visit a gastroenterologist. For diagnosis, he will refer you for a stool test or a colonoscopy. And as a treatment, he will prescribe something from this list: aminosalicylates or mesalazines, antibiotics, immunosuppressants, biologics.

6. Constipation

If you can’t go to the toilet, you feel discomfort and heaviness in your stomach, this is constipation.

What to do

A laxative will help here. For persistent constipation, consult a general practitioner or gastroenterologist.

7. Duodenal ulcer

An ulcer is a deep defect in the mucous membrane. In most cases, it occurs when the bacterium Helicobacter pylori enters the duodenum. In addition to pain in the right side, bloating, a feeling of heaviness, heartburn, belching, and nausea may appear.

What to do

Diagnose an ulcer first. As soon as possible, contact a gastroenterologist to conduct an esophagogastroduodenoscopy – examination of the intestinal walls. In the people it is called “swallowing the probe.”

Most often, treatment involves only drugs, surgery is rarely required.

8. Menstruation

Drawing pain can be felt in the right side from below before and during menstruation. This is usually not dangerous, but very annoying.

What to do

Be patient or drink a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. If the pain is very strong, you need to be examined by a gynecologist. He will prescribe you hormonal oral contraceptives or strong painkillers.

9. Ovarian cyst

Twisting or rupture of the cyst causes pelvic pain ranging from dull and moderate to severe and sudden. Specific symptoms are pain during sex, irregular and heavy periods, frequent urination.

What to do

A cyst can be malignant or benign. In the first case, you will have to perform an operation and remove the formation. In the second – to be observed by a gynecologist. If the cyst resolves on its own, the doctor will not prescribe treatment.

10. Urinary tract infection

Bacterial inflammation can cause burning during urination, cramps and pain in the lower abdomen.

What to do

Do not try to let the disease take its course. If left untreated, the infection can lead to permanent damage to the bladder and kidneys. As soon as you feel the symptoms described above, go to a nephrologist, urologist or therapist. You will be prescribed antibiotics to reduce the inflammation.

11. Ectopic pregnancy

This is the name of a pathology in which fertilization does not occur in the uterus, but in the fallopian tube, cervix, ovary or other place in the abdominal cavity.

The fetus grows, it becomes crowded, it presses on the walls of the organ to which it is attached, and can break it. This causes sharp or stabbing pain and internal bleeding.

What to do

You could die if you don’t seek medical help right away. There are no options here – call an ambulance.

12. Liver diseases

There are no pain receptors in the liver itself. Therefore, pain can appear only in advanced cases, when the organ greatly increases in size, and its capsule is stretched.

Liver disease can be either hereditary or acquired. The latter are caused by the influence of harmful factors on the body. For example, viruses, alcohol, obesity.

What to do

Anna Yurkevich says that an enlarged liver can be detected by palpation (when the doctor feels the patient’s abdomen) or during ultrasound of the abdominal organs. So the first thing to do is to see a therapist. And in order to make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe you a biochemical blood test.

To get rid of discomfort, you need to treat the underlying disease, which the doctor diagnoses after examination and testing.

13. Lung diseases

If you feel pain in your side when you breathe or cough, you need to rule out a lung pathology. For example, complications after pneumonia, pleurisy, tumor.

What to do

Don’t ignore pain. Have a therapist listen to you and, if necessary, refer you for a chest x-ray.

14. Injury to muscles or ribs

If the pain is not very severe, you could simply pull a muscle or hurt yourself. It is less likely, but possible, that you have myositis, an inflammation of muscle tissue. The cause of unbearable pain may be a fracture of the ribs.

What to do

If you know for sure that you have pulled a muscle or hurt yourself, try to rest more and apply ice to the injured area. In case of a fracture, call an ambulance immediately and do not move. If you do not understand what caused the pain, go to the therapist: suddenly it’s inflammation.