Stomach ache right side
June 24, 2011 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Uni-Arzt Freddy Feuerstein
Good day,
About 2 weeks ago, I had severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea in the lower abdomen for 2 days; afterwards, there were only cramps with normal bowel movements. Nothing was found in the blood analysis; in the stool sample, Campylobacter was detected. I then took an antibiotic prescribed by the doctor for 4 days. My bowel movements were normal and I no longer had any abdominal pain. 2 days after finishing the antibiotic, I suddenly developed pain in the lower right abdomen; especially when walking, lifting my leg, which worsened and there was a constant pulling sensation on the right side of my abdomen. I went to the emergency room again; lab results were normal; an X-ray showed stool in the colon. The doctor then prescribed me Colopeg 1 liter daily for 3 days and 1 packet of Movicol daily. However, I go to the bathroom normally every day and did not have any bowel problems before. With the Colopeg, I don't go to the bathroom as often, maybe 7 times a day, with only a little diarrhea. But I still have daily pain, especially when walking on the lower right side of my abdomen. I think it may have gotten worse since I started taking Colopeg. Is this normal? What could it be? Possibly an appendix irritation? Best regards.
Dear inquirer,
Regarding appendicitis. An acute appendicitis does not seem to be the case, as it usually presents with severe pain in the lower right abdomen, a tender abdomen especially in the right and left lower abdomen. Furthermore, if it had progressed to peritonitis, you would not be able to walk around. Additionally, signs of inflammation such as an increase in white blood cells (leukocytosis) and C-reactive protein (CRP) would have been found in the second lab test if it had been taken.
The idea of a chronic appendicitis or persistent irritation is controversial in the scientific community, although some colleagues believe in the existence of "chronic appendicitis," which is typically treated surgically by removing the affected section of the appendix.
Before I address the question you posed, something important:
If your condition worsens and persists, please go to the hospital immediately! I cannot help you online in such a situation.
If the issue currently seems to be a persistent intestinal problem that has been ongoing for weeks, the following considerations may be relevant:
1. You underwent antibiotic treatment, which may have reduced unwanted bacteria but provided a favorable environment for other microorganisms to thrive. I would recommend retesting your stool to check for a possible fungal colonization (mycosis), which would require treatment with a specific medication.
2. The antibiotic treatment may have disrupted your intestinal flora, so you may need to rebuild it with medication (your doctor can prescribe probiotics for you to take).
3. A colonoscopy may provide definitive clarity, especially if you have not had one recently. While less invasive, an ultrasound of the abdomen may not provide a detailed assessment of the intestines.
4. Chronic intestinal diseases can develop at any time, but I certainly hope this is not the case for you.
I recommend seeing a gastroenterologist (whether in private practice or at a hospital), as this specialist has the most experience in managing cases like yours. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.
Best regards,
T.C. Müller
