Abdominal pain and bloating are common symptoms felt by everyone at some point in his life. Most cases of abdominal pain and bloating occur as a result of acute digestive abnormalities and do not signify serious conditions. However, If symptoms are persistent or severe, they may indicate a chronic underlying condition.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome affects the colon and is characterized by symptoms of abdominal pain, abdominal cramps, gas, bloating and alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea. The cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown, but it is related to an increase in strength and frequency of intestinal contractions. Unlike other digestive diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome does not cause any permanent damage to the colon, according to MayoClinic.com. Because the cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown, treatment focuses on relieving individual symptoms. Fiber supplements, antidiarrheal medications, antidepressants and antibiotics are commonly used to alleviate symptoms. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and stress, can also help ease symptoms.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is a natural sugar that is found in the highest abundance in milk and other milk products. In order to efficiently digest lactose, the enzyme lactase must be produced in adequate amounts by the small intestine. Those with lactose intolerance do not produce enough lactase and, therefore, experience a variety of symptoms after the ingestion of any food or beverage that contains lactose. The most common symptoms of lactose intolerance include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and nausea, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Symptoms of lactose intolerance can be prevented by avoiding food or drinks that contain lactose. Because milk products contain the highest amounts of calcium, supplements are often recommended to replace lost nutrients. Synthetic enzymes may also be taken prior to ingesting foods or drinks that contain lactose to aid the body in proper digestion.
Intestinal Obstruction
An intestinal obstruction is defined by Medline Plus as a partial or complete blockage of the intestine that prevents the passage of intestinal contents. An intestinal obstruction may be mechanical, whereby something is physically blocking the pathway, such as scar tissue, tumors, gallstones or twisted intestine; or it may be due to abnormal bowel function. Symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, cramping, breath odor, constipation, diarrhea and vomiting. The first step to treating an intestinal obstruction includes inserting a tube in through the nose to the stomach. This relieves bloating, abdominal fullness and nausea. If this method is not effective, surgery may be needed to correct the intestinal obstruction.
