Constant stomach bloating and pain due to Intestinal contractions. Taking probiotics, vegan diet. Suggestions?
Patient: I have constant stomach bloating and pain due to Intestional contractions.  I have had pretty much every test except for a stomach emptying test and gallbladder function test.  I have been taking probiotics (Align) for the past 8 weeks and experienced no improvement so far.  I try and stick to a gluten free and vegan diet to reduce flare ups and bloating/swelling.  I also exercise about 12 hours a week.  Is there anything else I can try to eliminate the constant abdominal bloating and swelling I experience.  I am beyond frustrated, thank you. Doctor: Hi,  Thanks for posting your query.  With the available describes symptoms, there appears to be high possibility of decreased gastrointestinal movements. Presence of bloating with intestinal pain suggests the diagnosis. Intestinal contraction could be due to intestinal obstruction or due to impaction of fecoliths. You should consult with internal medicine specialist/ general surgeon and should go for thorough check up.  You should also go for complete blood count, blood sugar, serum electrolytes, and thyroid profile. You should also go for ultrasound imaging and x ray abdomen.  You should take plenty of water, high fibre diet and laxatives containing lactitol and isapgula.  You should perform increased physical activity to maintain gastrointestinal mobility.  You should also go for endoscopy for better clarification of upper gastrointestinal tract.  You should also take proton pump inhibitors along with prokinetics.  Take care,  Dr. Mayank Bhargava