Strength in chair increased
February 5, 2016 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg
Hello,
I am 33 years old and have been experiencing soft and bulky stools as well as severe bloating for several weeks. A colonoscopy and abdominal ultrasound by a specialist did not show any abnormalities. Amylase, lipase, and alkaline phosphatase levels in the blood are within the normal range. Now, the stool has been examined and an excess of starch has been found. Pancreatic enzymes are said to be within the normal range. A referral to a specialist has been made.
1.5 years ago, my gallbladder was removed due to colic including stones.
What could be the cause of the problem?
Good evening,
Based on the results of the investigations you have described so far, one can initially assume that more serious causes such as pancreatitis, intestinal tumors, etc. are not the cause of your symptoms.
I would like to rephrase your question, and this can be replaced by "could", since from here we can only speculate about possible causes. Therefore, it is correct and important that you follow up with the referral to the specialist.
Possible causes:
1. Dysentery = unfavorable or partially pathogenic bacteria in the intestine, a shift in the usual intestinal flora (indicated by the severe bloating). Possible therapeutic approaches: 1. Intestinal cleansing, intake of "good" bacteria such as Saccharomyces boulardii, available as medication. 2. Functional deficiency of pancreatic enzymes - even if the enzymes measured (in what way?) are within the normal range, a deficiency in enzymes may still be present. Possible treatment approach: Take high doses of pancreatic enzyme preparations with each meal for 1-2 weeks (e.g. Creon 40,000). If bowel movements, bloating, and overall well-being improve, a (mild, functional) pancreatic insufficiency is almost certain. This can temporarily occur due to various causes (e.g. infection, increased alcohol consumption at a party, etc.).
3. Nutrition-related causes: You may have developed a (latent) intolerance to certain food components. There are many possibilities, from gluten sensitivity to lactose intolerance. Possible therapy attempt: a form of "food separation" = restricting food to basic ingredients, gradually reintroducing additional foods. Since you have an excess of starch, it is advisable to avoid any carbohydrate-rich foods initially. These measures are extensive and there are several possible approaches, so I recommend discussing this with a local doctor. I would suggest starting with a focus on nutrition counseling/adjustment.
In conclusion, I suspect the problem lies primarily in a mismatch of bacteria, digestive enzymes, etc., triggered by foods that are currently not properly digested by you. A "colon cleansing" could be an option, approached from various angles as outlined above. Since serious organ-related diseases have been ruled out, I do not believe that further extensive diagnostics will bring any new insights.
If functional digestive disorders are present, the problem must be addressed from that perspective. I hope my response has been helpful to you.
Best regards,
Dr. R. Berg
