Stomach pain, tummy aches, cramps – no matter what you call it, abdominal discomfort affects us all at some point in life. Although a stomach ache is a potential symptom of numerous medical conditions, it’s usually no cause for concern. However, certain stomach symptoms should never be ignored, as they require prompt care to prevent serious complications.
Read on to learn about the stomach symptoms that merit an immediate call to your doctor.
Severe Cramping After a Meal
If you experience severe cramps after eating, you may have bowel obstruction or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Bowel obstruction requires emergency medical care to prevent permanent damage to the intestine, among other complications. If you experience severe, debilitating pain from IBS, you should also seek immediate medical attention.
Diarrhea Lasting More Than a Day
Diarrhea can point to many conditions, from bacterial infections to food allergies and even certain medications. However, if you experience diarrhea lasting longer than a day, you may be dealing with IBS, ulcerative colitis, a more serious infection, or even COVID-19. That’s right – COVID-19 can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms, most commonly diarrhea.
If you have prolonged diarrhea, take a COVID-19 test and reach out to your doctor for further guidance.
Constipation Lasting More Than a Week
Constipation is one of today’s most prevalent GI concerns. However, if it lasts for a week, visit your doctor. Chronic constipation isn’t only painful, it can also pose a serious health risk.
Trouble Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing or discomfort while swallowing can point to esophageal cancer, infection, ulcers, scar tissue, and eosinophilic esophagitis, or EOE. If you experience this symptom, reach out to your doctor or a gastroenterologist for an evaluation.
Bloody Stool
Seeing blood in your stool can be unsettling, to say the least. While it’s usually caused by common conditions like hemorrhoids or anal fissures, it’s also an early sign of colon cancer. So, if you experience this symptom, visit your doctor immediately for an evaluation.
Unexplained Weight Loss with Abdominal Pain
Unexplained weight loss should always be addressed with your doctor, as it can indicate various serious conditions. It’s a possible sign of cancer, as well as IBS, celiac disease, thyroid conditions, and peptic ulcers.
At Body Flow Wellness in Clearwater, we’re here to support your gastrointestinal health with colon hydrotherapy and detoxification. Contact us today to book your appointment!