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What Causes Persistent Bloating, Abdominal Pain And Constipation?
Question: I have been experiencing significant bloating and abdominal pressure for the past 4-5 days. This followed 4 day bout with the flu. I feel constipated even with laxatives. My stomach is distended and I feel pressure in my belly and ribcage. I am eating now but struggling to deal with this pressure. The bloating is as high as the sternum. I am 64 yo , have no chronic diseases and I am generally healthy. Thoughts?
Brief Answer:
Viral GE
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for the query.
You seem to have aquired viral Gastroenteritis from the food or community. Since you had flu virus it could be community aquired GE. IN such a case you will have irregular bowel movements and dyspepsia.
You should opt for a medication which has simethicone plus charcoal in it which will address both the bloating and abdominal pressure.
I suggest you to go to a pharmacy nearby and ask the pharmacist a brand or a pill with has a combination of SIMETHICONE PLUS CHARCOAL. Even if you do not find a combination pill you can take them separately thrice a day with or without food.
There are certain digestive enzymes available over the counter which can be taken 30 minutes before meal which aid in digestion of carbohydrates and minimize the gas production.
You should avoid complex carbos like beans, potato, radish which are tough to digest. Avoid spices, carbonated beverages, fruit and milk based products. Have ginger ale and fresh fruit juices. You can have soups before each meal.
Do not continue Laxatives but visit the bathroom regularly to mobilize the gut.
It takes another 3 days for the entire problem to subside.
Hope these tips help.
Viral GE
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for the query.
You seem to have aquired viral Gastroenteritis from the food or community. Since you had flu virus it could be community aquired GE. IN such a case you will have irregular bowel movements and dyspepsia.
You should opt for a medication which has simethicone plus charcoal in it which will address both the bloating and abdominal pressure.
I suggest you to go to a pharmacy nearby and ask the pharmacist a brand or a pill with has a combination of SIMETHICONE PLUS CHARCOAL. Even if you do not find a combination pill you can take them separately thrice a day with or without food.
There are certain digestive enzymes available over the counter which can be taken 30 minutes before meal which aid in digestion of carbohydrates and minimize the gas production.
You should avoid complex carbos like beans, potato, radish which are tough to digest. Avoid spices, carbonated beverages, fruit and milk based products. Have ginger ale and fresh fruit juices. You can have soups before each meal.
Do not continue Laxatives but visit the bathroom regularly to mobilize the gut.
It takes another 3 days for the entire problem to subside.
Hope these tips help.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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