HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

What Causes Abdominal Distention And Constipation?

Posted on Thu, 22 May 2014

Question: I have had gross abdominal distention for a week now. It came on quickly and it makes me look like I am 9 months pregnant. I am 58 years old. I have tried medicine for constipation and have results but I can't seem to get rid of this swelling. I also had urine test and culture which showed the e-coli infection. Could this be causing the swelling --also had a yeast infection which was treated.Any help you can offer would be greatly appreciated.be

Answered by Dr. Ashish Verma (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
it can be due to the thyroid

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for writing to HCM.

You are having hypothyroidism and the fluctuations in levels suggest very poor control.

So your abdominal distention and constipation can be due to that.

Control the thyroid levels properly with regular medications and i hope your symptoms will improve.

Hope i have been helpful.

Regards
Dr. Ashish Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Ashish Verma (5 hours later)

I have been going to an Endocrinologist for a year and we get it in range and then it starts going very erratic again. I am scheduled for my 2nd ultrasound this year soon. I barely have a thyroid left and few small nodules. Have you heard of people getting their thyroid removed achieving good results with Hashimotis Encephalopathy. Once again thank you for your answer and time.

Answered by Dr. Ashish Verma (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
try radioactive ablation

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

It may be possible that the few nodules of your thyroid left are the source of the problem as this is an autoimmune disease with elevated levels of antithyroid antibodies.

And at present you are not having any symptoms of encephalitis, all your symptoms are of hypothyroidism.

So, i would suggest that you discuss with your endocrinologist regarding radioactive ablasion of the remaining thyroid tissue, to help you control your fluctuations in the thyroid hormone levels. As he is the best person in this regard.

The response to thyroidectomy to this disease is mixed, with failure been reported in patients with a part of thyroid tissue left after excision.

Regards
Dr. Ashish Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Ashish Verma (16 hours later)

Thank you for your help and I will be checking in to the ablation. I too was very leary to get the thyroid removed. I very much appreciate your time in helping me get to the bottom of this craziness!!

Answered by Dr. Ashish Verma (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Welcome...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I am glad that i have been of help to you.

If you dont have further queries, you may close this discussion and rate the response.

Regards
Dr. Ashish Verma

Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad