Medical Questions » Gut (Intestines) Questions » Question No. 431
| Question: | During the past several months I have been in agony with a bloated and cramping stomach. The pain created by these cramps is horrendous. Endoscopy, ultrasound and every other test has been normal. What could cause these pains? |
| Answer: | Unfortunately, I am less likely to make any diagnosis than the doctor who can actually lay hands on you and examine and question you in detail.
If all investigations are normal, a condition that does not show with any investigation must be considered. The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) comes to mind.
IBS causes spasms of the gut that can be extremely painful, bloating, excess wind and episodic diarrhoea. The spasms can be triggered by diet, stress or infections, but quite often occur for no apparent reason.
There are a number of antispasmodic medications that can be used to both prevent and treat the spasms. These include Colofac, Buscopan and Merbentyl, but all require a prescription. If you are having regular attacks, it is sensible to use medications all the time to prevent the problem.
Discuss this possibility with your general practitioner.
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