Question: Hi Dr.,

For the past couple days, I have had constant gastrointestinal distress (bloating, cramping, pains). They often come much more intensely before a bowel movement or passing gas. The pains even woke me up 2 nights ago and I had to go to the bathroom. I am not, however, having diarrhea, so I don't think I'm at risk of being dehydrated. The bowel movements are broken pieces. I am still having pains and cramps this morning. But I have not vomited nor have any kind of nausea. I still have an appetite.
What could be causing this? Some persistent kind of slow acting food poisoning? Is there any relief I can try? How long should I wait to see if it passes on its own before seeing a doctor?
I also don't think it can be anything cancerous, as I had a colonoscopy about 5 months ago that was completely normal. Thank you in advance.