Treatment FAQ

what can one do to ease abdominal pain after heavy treatment of laxatives in emergency room

by Dr. Obie Feil Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Try an over-the-counter antacid or a product to relieve gas. Try to have a bowel movement. Eating raw fruit, vegetables, beans, or high-fiber cereal can help.

Full Answer

Can laxatives cause abdominal pain?

Within the gut, fast movement of poorly digested food components can lead to abdominal discomfort, so high or frequent doses of bulk-forming laxatives can lead to gas, bloating, diarrhea or other abdominal discomfort. As with most laxatives, bulk-forming laxatives work best and may pose fewer side effects when adequate fluids are consumed.

How can I get rid of severe abdominal pain?

Antibiotics and acid-reducers work together to heal the pain to keep your stomach monitored.The pain under your ribs is probably a hiatal hernia. This ailment develops when the esophagus passes through an opening in your diapragm that separates your chest cavity from your abdomial cavity.

How do laxatives help with constipation?

I am experiencing abdominal pain (generalized) (severity: severe) (quality: throbbing sensation) , bloating or abdominal fullness and nausea (severity: mild) . the following also describe me: abdominal discomfort, tender abdomen, lower abdominal pain, su

What to do when stomach pain is not an emergency?

But what they recommended to help on a regular basis has been very effective. First, glass of grape juice (1 cup) every single day. We buy Welches grape juice in the individual serving bottles and he drinks one of those but you can buy the bigger bottles which is cheaper and drink a cup. We also added a probiotic to his daily routine.

How do you fix a laxative overdose?

DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual overdose. If you or someone you are with overdoses, call your local emergency number (such as 911), or your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States.

How do I fix my digestive system after laxative abuse?

Many techniques can also remedy the discomfort.
  1. Drink at least 6-10 cups of water. ...
  2. Get some physical exercise each day (intensity depending on your healthcare provider's recommendation) to help regulate bowel function.
  3. Eat regularly, at least three meals a day at regular intervals.
Oct 9, 2015

Can laxatives cause severe stomach pain?

Some of the side effects that you can experience with stimulant laxatives include: burping. abdominal cramping. diarrhea.

What do hospitals do for severe constipation?

Depending on what's causing constipation, ER treatments may include removing the stool from the rectum, enemas, laxatives, suppositories, or oral medications. Constipation can become a serious condition, and Landesman says you should never feel embarrassed about talking about your poop with your doctor.Feb 2, 2022

How long does it take for body to recover from laxative abuse?

How long will laxative withdrawal last? This varies greatly. A few people have these symptoms for 2 days; a few others have had them for 2 to 3 months. Most people have symptoms of laxative abuse for 1 to 3 weeks after stopping laxatives.Dec 23, 2013

How long does it take to recover from laxatives?

Not everyone experiences laxative withdrawal, but it helps to be prepared for this possibility to guard against restarting the laxatives. Symptoms can last from 1 to 3 weeks, or occasionally longer, and include fluid retention, constipation, bloating, and temporary weight gain (from water and stool).

Can you overdose laxatives?

More than one dose a day of popular laxatives used to treat constipation could have dangerous — even deadly — side effects for adults and children, federal health officials warned Wednesday.Jan 8, 2014

What happens when you take too many laxatives?

Taking too many laxatives overtime may weaken the bowel muscles, further leading to constipation. Contact a doctor after taking laxatives if you experience symptoms including dry mouth, thirst, reduced urine output and lightheadedness, especially with changes in position, after taking these laxatives.Jan 9, 2014

Why can't I poop even after laxatives?

Just about everyone has trouble going to the bathroom at some point. If you're not having bowel movements as often as you used to, usually it's no cause for worry. Often, constipation will go away on its own within a few days or get better after you use laxatives or another constipation treatment.Jun 4, 2020

How can I get immediate relief from constipation?

Tips for immediate constipation relief
  1. Take a fiber supplement. ...
  2. Eat foods for constipation relief. ...
  3. Drink a glass of water. ...
  4. Take a laxative stimulant. ...
  5. Take an osmotic laxative. ...
  6. Try a lubricant laxative. ...
  7. Use a stool softener. ...
  8. Try an enema.

When should I go to the emergency room for constipation?

If your constipation is accompanied by the following symptoms, seek immediate medical help:
  • intense and/or constant abdominal pain.
  • vomiting.
  • bloating.
  • blood in your stool.
Feb 7, 2019

Does a heating pad help constipation?

You can increase your fiber intake with fruits, vegetables, seeds, and fiber supplements. Anecdotal evidence supports magnesium supplements and a heating pad to help relieve constipation.Jan 4, 2022

When should pelvic pain be evaluated?

Pelvic pain/mass: Symptoms of pelvic pain with a mass seen on CT should be evaluated by a gyn oncologist at age 65. Although "fibroid tumors" can still exist long afte... Read More

Why does my pelvis hurt?

Pain: pelvic pain could stem from various causes. Ovarian problems would include ovarian cyst or a corpus luteal cyst. Fallopian tube pain from ectopic. ... Read More

Can stomach acid cause abdominal pain?

Doctor can evaluate: Abdominal pain can be from many things. Stomach acid problems cause pain, as does pancreatitis or gallstones. Appendicitis is always a concern (pain i... Read More

How to stop abdominal pain from constipation?

Do not eat foods that are high in fat. High-fat foods may increase your abdominal pain. Do not use aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as these may irritate your stomach and increase your pain. Develop regular bowel habits to prevent abdominal pain caused by constipation.

How to relieve lower abdominal pain?

For quick relief from lower abdominal pain, simply chew some peppermint leaves.

How to treat irritable bowel syndrome?

Drink the tea 2 or 3 times a day. Note: Peppermint may not be suitable when suffering from heartburn or acid reflux disease. 7. Yogurt. Yogurt with ‘live cultures’ is a good remedy for lower abdominal pain related to irritable bowel syndrome, constipation or gastroenteritis.

How to stop stomach pain?

Exercise . Regular exercise is important to keep your digestive system healthy, prevent constipation and make your bowel movements regular. Exercising can also release air and gas that has built up in the stomach, which can cause lower abdominal pain. Any kind of exercise is good for your health.

What is the best medicine for gas pain?

6. Peppermint. The menthol in peppermint works as a natural analgesic and helps reduce abdominal pain, whether it is in the lower or upper portion. Plus, peppermint is effective at easing gas pain as well as other digestive problems. For quick relief from lower abdominal pain, simply chew some peppermint leaves.

What is the best herb to relieve pain in the lower abdomen?

Fennel. The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties of fennel can help relax the muscles in the uterus, which in turn reduces pain in the lower part of your abdomen due to menstrual cramps or PMS. It is also a good remedy for indigestion, gas and constipation.

What to do if you have pain in lower abdomen?

If you are having pain in the lower abdomen due to PMS or menstruation, try applying heat on the affected area.

What is abdominal ED?

The ED abdominal exam is directed primarily to the localization of tenderness, the identification of peritonitis, and the detection of certain enlargements such as the abdominal aorta. Various strategies have been advocated to improve the palpation phase of the examination, including progression from nonpainful areas to the location of pain. It may be useful to palpate the abdomen of anxious or less cooperative children with the stethoscope to define areas of tenderness.29Meyerowitz30advocates following up the initial examination with a secondary palpation with a stethoscope while telling the patient one is listening in order to uncover exaggerated symptoms. It is preferable to have the patient flex the knees and hips to allow for relaxation of the abdominal musculature (see below discussion of guarding).

How long does gallbladder pain last?

Although labeled “colic,” gallbladder pain is generally not paroxysmal, and it almost never lasts less than 1 hour, with an average of 5–16 hours’ duration, and ranging up to 24 hours.13Small bowel obstruction typically progresses from an intermittent (“colicky”) pain to more constant pain when distention occurs.

How to determine if you have peritonitis?

Determining the presence or absence of peritonitis is a primary objective of the abdominal examination; unfortunately, the methods for detecting it are often inaccurate. Traditional rebound testing is performed by gentle depression of the abdominal wall for approximately 15–30 seconds with sudden release. The patient is asked whether the pain was greater with downward pressure or with release. Despite limitations, the test was one of the most useful in a meta-analysis of articles investigating the diagnosis of appendicitis in children.29Cope’s Early Diagnosis of the Acute Abdomenrecommends against this test because it is unnecessarily painful. The authors suggest gentle percussion as more accurate and humane.28When subject to study, traditional rebound testing has a sensitivity for the presence of peritonitis near 80%, yet its specificity is only 40%–50% and it is entirely nondiscriminatory in the identification of cholecystitis.27,33,34The use of indirect tests such as the “cough test,” where one looks for signs of pain such as flinching, grimacing, or moving the hands to the abdomen upon coughing has a similar sensitivity but with a specificity of 79%.35In children, indirect tests would include the “heel drop jarring” test (child rises on toes and drops weight on heels) or asking the child to jump up and down while looking for signs of abdominal pain.29,36

What organs cause pain in the suprapubic region?

Hindgut structures such as the bladder, and distal two-thirds of the colon, as well as pelvic genitourinary organs usually cause pain in the suprapubic region. Pain is usually reported in the back for retroperitoneal structures such as the aorta and kidneys.5,6. Character .

Is abdominal pain difficult to diagnose?

Various factors can obscure the presentation, delaying or preventing the correct diagnosis, with subsequent adverse patient outcomes. Clinicians must consider multiple diagnoses, especially those life-threatening conditions that require timely intervention to limit morbidity and mortality. This article will review general information on abdominal pain and discuss the clinical approach by review of the history and the physical examination. Additionally, this article will discuss the approach to unstable patients with abdominal pain.

Can vomiting cause esophageal rupture?

Vomiting may occur in almost any abdominal disease. Pain generally precedes vomiting in surgical conditions, with the important exception of esophageal rupture from forceful emesis.10,17It is usually present in small bowel obstruction, unless the obstruction is partial or the patient is presenting early in the course.

Can genitourinary tract disease cause abdominal pain?

Many genitourinary tract diseases can present with abdominal pain. Conversely, any inflammatory process contiguous to the genitourinary tract (including appendicitis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or any inflammatory process involving bowel) may result in both pyuria and dysuria. This can lead to misdiagnosis of both gastrointestinal and genitourinary conditions. In men, testicular torsion may present as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In women, the enlarging uterus of pregnancy can itself cause discomfort and displace abdominal organs in such a way as to further complicate the diagnosis of many abdominal conditions, especially appendicitis. For these reasons, a menstrual (where applicable), sexual, and genitourinary history should be obtained in most patients with abdominal pain. The report of normal, regular menses should not preclude consideration of current pregnancy.25Cardiopulmonary symptoms such as cough and dyspnea can point to a nonabdominal cause of abdominal pain. Syncope may indicate disease originating in the chest (pulmonary embolism, dissection) or abdomen (acute aortic aneurysm, ectopic pregnancy).

How to reduce abdominal pain?

Apply heat on your abdomen for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 hours for as many days as directed. Heat helps decrease pain and muscle spasms. Manage your stress. Stress may cause abdominal pain. Your healthcare provider may recommend relaxation techniques and deep breathing exercises to help decrease your stress.

How to stop stomach pain from eating?

Make changes to the food you eat as directed: Do not eat foods that cause abdominal pain or other symptoms. Eat small meals more often. Eat more high-fiber foods if you are constipated. High-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain foods, and legumes. Do not eat foods that cause gas if you have bloating.

What does it feel like to have blood in your bowels?

Your abdomen is larger than usual, more painful, and hard. You have severe pain in your abdomen. You stop passing gas and having bowel movements. You feel weak, dizzy, or faint.

Why do we give medicine?

Medicines may be given to decrease pain, treat an infection, and manage your symptoms.

Can smoking cigarettes cause stomach problems?

Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can damage your esophagus and stomach. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

Can acute abdominal pain be used for commercial purposes?

Acute Abdominal Pain (Aftercare Instructions) - What You Need to Know. This material must not be used for commercial purposes, or in any hospital or medical facility. Failure to comply may result in legal action.

Can alcohol cause abdominal pain?

Limit or do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can make your abdominal pain worse. Ask your healthcare provider if it is safe for you to drink alcohol. Also ask how much is safe for you to drink. Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can damage your esophagus and stomach.

How to stop gas pain from supine?

Working out can help prevent constipation and gas pain. Even just getting up and walking about can help. The body retains more gas when supine (lying face upwards).

What does it mean when your abdomen hurts?

Abdominal swelling. Severe tenderness when your abdomen is touched. In addition, severe abdominal pain can also be an indicator that something more is wrong. If your pain is extreme and debilitating, seek treatment immediately.

What supplements can help with gas?

Lactase supplements (such as Lactrase or Lactaid) can help those who are lactose intolerant. Alpha-galactosidase supplements (such as Beano or Bean Relief) can help people digest legumes. While most cases of stomach pain and gas can be treated at home, you should talk to your doctor if you are worried.

How long does stomach pain last?

You should also consult your doctor if: Your pain lasts more than a couple days. Stomach gas and pain remain well after an immediate cause, such as constipation, is relieved.

What is gas pain?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Swallowed air. Carbonated beverages. Gas pain is often described as generalized or as cramp-like. More localized pain or pain that comes in waves may indicate a different cause. In addition, some women experience more gas during certain times of their cycle.

What is the best gas relief?

The most common medications that claim to relieve immediate symptoms are activated charcoal and simethicone (Gas X, Gas Relief).

What is the best digestive aid for IBS?

Peppermint and peppermint oil have the best record as digestive aids, but there are many other foods that may help. In one study, Chinese herbal formulae outperformed placebos in soothing IBS symptoms. Commonly included ingredients are:

What to do if you have stomach pain while being treated for cancer?

You should also call your healthcare provider if you have stomach pain while you are being treated for cancer.

How to stop vomiting and diarrhea?

Limit yourself to clear liquids for a few hours. If you experience vomiting and/or diarrhea, stick with the BRAT diet and other mild foods until your symptoms start to subside. Avoid foods that are tough on the digestive system, such as food that is high in fat, fried foods, spicy foods, and drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.

How long does it take for stomach pain to start?

Your pain started shortly after you experienced severe abdominal trauma. Your abdomen appears bruised or is rapidly expanding in size. Your stomach pain may be mild in the beginning, and then you may develop associated symptoms after a few hours.

How to tell if you have a stomach ache?

Your stomach pain may be mild in the beginning, and then you may develop associated symptoms after a few hours. You should get help immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms along with your stomach pain: 1 Abdomen is extremely hard 2 Abdominal tenderness when it is touched 3 Coughing up or vomiting blood 4 Persistent vomiting 5 Bloody diarrhea 6 Chest pain or pressure 7 Difficulty breathing 8 Dizziness 9 Fainting 10 Inability to have a bowel movement accompanied by vomiting 11 Pain in neck, shoulder or between shoulder blades 12 Vision changes

Why does my stomach hurt?

Stomach pain can be caused by a life-threatening condition, such as appendicitis, bowel obstruction (blockage of food material somewhere in the small or large intestine), or a bowel perforation (a leak of food material from the intestines). 1 .

What does it mean when you can't have bowel movement?

Fainting. Inability to have a bowel movement accompanied by vomiting. Pain in neck, shoulder or between shoulder blades. Vision changes. Call for an ambulance or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room. In these instances, you should not "wait and see" or take medicine for the pain. Get help right away.

How do you know if you have stomach pain?

You should get help immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms along with your stomach pain: Abdomen is extremely hard. Abdominal tenderness when it is touched. Coughing up or vomiting blood. Persistent vomiting. Bloody diarrhea.

What do you do in the ER for nausea?

Typically in the ER, you'll get an IV. We'll put an IV in, which is giving you medications. So if you're having severe pain we'll give you a pain medication. If you're having nausea we'll treat that. Often times we're giving fluid for dehydration, especially if a person has been vomiting a lot, "I've had a lot of diarrhea." And then I'm thinking about testing. What do I need to do to figure this out?

What is the most common thing to see in the ER?

Dr. Madsen: It really is and this is one of the most common things we see in the ER is abdominal pain . So you've always got to be thinking of all these different things. There's really not just a certain way we go about it. We're going to be guiding that by how their symptoms started, where they hurt, but typically it does involve some blood work, may involve an ultrasound, maybe a CAT scan. Trying to sort through this and rule out the bad stuff to see what's going on.

Do you have to do a test for gastroenteritis?

There may be cases where we do an examination, push on the abdomen and we don't have to do tests. Maybe we'd say, probably gastroenteritis, probably a virus or something like that. But often times we are doing some sort of testing in the ER.

Does pain last longer?

Dr. Madsen: Yeah, I think probably pain that lasts longer and it depends on the individual and what other medical issues they might have. But typically if it's something that comes on and goes away, you can watch it, see what happens, see if things come back if they get worse. Most things that are serious, in pretty much all cases if it's going to be something that's really significant, it's going to get worse. It's not just going to come on and then go away and then you feel fine.

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