Expert answers from Gastroenterology physicians on health concerns and treatment options
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Why is my left lower abdomen swollen?
Swelling in the left lower abdomen can be caused by conditions like diverticular disease or diverticulitis, gas or bloating from digestive issues, constipation, or other changes in the abdominal tissues.
Why is my right lower abdomen swollen?
Swelling in your right lower abdomen can be due to inflammation from conditions like appendicitis, enlarged lymph nodes from infection or inflammation, colitis, ovarian cyst or rupture, constipation, or even generalized abdominal bloating that may appear more pronounced in that area.
Why is the left side of the stomach bigger than the right?
The left side of your stomach is naturally larger than the right due to normal left-right asymmetry during embryonic gut development.
Why is the lower left side of my stomach/abdomen larger?
A larger appearance in the lower left side of the abdomen is typically due to abdominal bloating—often caused by gas, fluid buildup, or changes in bowel habits—which can make one area seem more distended.
Does the duration of heartburn vary with different age groups?
Heartburn can feel different for people of different ages. Kids and teenagers can have heartburn that lasts longer and might continue as they grow up.
How long does heartburn last?
A typical heartburn episode can last from a few minutes to several hours, depending on various factors such as diet and individual health conditions.
When should I be concerned about the length of my heartburn symptoms?
You should be concerned about heartburn if it happens often or doesn't go away, as it might be a sign of a condition like GERD.
How can gas lead to chest pain?
Gas trapped in your stomach or intestines can cause chest pain by creating pressure and discomfort in your chest area.
How are incomplete bowel movements and bloating related?
Not fully emptying the bowel can lead to gas buildup in the gut, which makes the belly feel bloated.
How can a feeling of blockage in the rectal area be evaluated and treated?
A feeling of blockage in the rectal area can be checked with tests that look at how your rectum works and can be treated through methods such as lifestyle changes, medications, or sometimes procedures to help with passing stool.
How can incomplete bowel movements be managed in daily life?
Incomplete bowel movements can be managed by making changes to diet, exercise, bathroom habits, and sometimes using medications or techniques to help the muscles work better.
How common is upper left abdominal pain and what are its potential causes?
Upper left abdominal pain is common and often due to stomach issues. However, there are other causes to consider.
How does IBS contribute to incomplete bowel movements?
IBS can change how your gut works, making it harder to fully empty your bowels. This happens because the muscles and nerves in your intestines don’t always work the way they should.
What are common causes of pain in the lower right abdomen?
Appendicitis is an important cause of pain in the lower right abdomen. However, there are many possible causes of pain in the area.
What are the common causes of upper right abdominal pain in women?
Upper right abdominal pain in women can be caused by gallbladder issues like gallstones or inflammation and conditions affecting the liver area, including rare conditions like Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome.
What are the possible causes of feeling stomach fullness without eating?
Feeling full without eating can happen because of gas buildup, slow stomach emptying, or other digestive problems. This feeling may be linked to conditions like bloating, gastroparesis, or irritable bowel issues and if continuous or severe is cause to see a doctor.
What are the possible causes of sharp lower abdominal pain?
Sharp lower abdominal pain can be caused by problems with the intestines, muscles, or even organs like the appendix. It may be due to conditions such as appendicitis, bowel issues, or even a muscle strain.
What are the possible causes of upper left quadrant abdominal pain?
Pain in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen can be caused by problems with organs in that area, including the stomach, spleen, colon, and pancreas.
What are the possible causes of upper right quadrant abdominal pain?
Upper right quadrant pain can be caused by issues with the gallbladder, liver, or nearby organs, such as gallstones, cholecystitis, or liver inflammation.
What are the possible reasons for experiencing sharp abdominal pain?
Sharp abdominal pain can arise from various causes, including infections, inflammation, blockages, or disruptions in how your body processes gut signals. Some causes may be life-threatening and require medical attention.
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