Resolved question:
Hello.. i have a 16 year old male (afro-caribbean), younger brother (non-biological). No previous medical history, complained of rectal bleed (spots on tissue) in june. But last night he saw more blood in the toilet after he had passed stool. No report of constipation, but he did report chest pain, weakness, headache and abdominal pain, this was after he had passed stool and seen the blood. The abdominal pain was most severe out of all. lasted about 2mins on the left side ( But along with this, he experienced mild chest pain for a short time and weakness, c/o tiredness today as well). He went to the ER today, and was told it is due to constipation. He refused a rectal exam (embarassed). Is able to walk etc. No labs done, no xray (barium enema and xray was explained, but not done). I am unsatisfied with the outcome. Located in the caribbean (Turks and Caicos Islands).
so i am asking for an expert opinion based on the symptoms, and recommendations for treatment, dietary advice and what ever suggestions can be offered. Thanks.
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Gastroenterologist, Surgical
Hello,
Thanks for your query at DoctorSpring.
Blood in stools in a young boy could be due to various causes like hemorrhoids, fissures, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease and infective colitis. Since you have said that there is no report of constipation, hemorrhoids and fissures are less likely, Moreover you have said that he had abdominal pain also which does not occur in these conditions. So the more likely causes are inflammatory bowel disease and infective colitis.
A stool analysis and a colonoscopy test should be done for evaluation. Stool analysis will help to know whether there is any infection and colonoscopy is done to look in to the bowel.
Till the tests are done give him probiotic supplements. You can make him take more yogurt also.
I hope that answers your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr.Ratnakar Kini