What causes swelling and pain in stomach?
Patient: I have had a very swollen stomach for about a week now. It s more uncomfortable than painful, but there are sudden pains that come in my sides and under my breastbone. I ve been to the doctor and he told me it was acid reflux so gave me medication for it. I have been taking it, but the pain has now spread to the middle sides of my back. It may be that I haven t been taking the tablets for long enough, but I just would like an opinion. Doctor: Hi.Thanks for your query.Your history of distension - swollen abdomen with discomfort and sudden pains and now backache is suggestive of an intestinal obstruction with the intestines trying to push up the the things in it causing sudden pains also called as spams. I would advise you the following:X-ray of the abdomen in standing position.Ultrasonography of the abdomen. If there is intestinal obstruction, you have to get admitted for investigations and treatment of keeping you nil orally, intravenous fluids to supplement , investigations of the blood including electrolytes.This is not the case of acid reflux. You may need a surgical intervention if you do not get relief within 3 days. Be prepared for surgery.