DEAR DR. GOTT: I have had gas pains under my rib cage for the past year. The pain leads to sediment-type diarrhea within 15 minutes of eating anything, occurring at least three times before it stops.
I’ve been unemployed and without health insurance for three years, so I am unable to see a doctor about this. I have determined I am allergic to wheat. I take no medicines other than over-the-counter naproxen for knee arthritis. Can you figure this out?
DEAR READER: Gas pains can occur for a number of reasons. Perhaps you have acid reflux, indigestion, hiatal hernia, gallbladder disease, peptic ulcer, are lactose intolerant or have an undiagnosed abnormality of the digestive tract. You also don’t appear to be digesting your food properly, as evidenced by the diarrhea. Naproxen and other OTC NSAIDs can also lead to nausea, gas and diarrhea.
If you are unemployed and without insurance, apply for state aid. This will remove an enormous burden from your shoulders. Then make an appointment with a physician for an examination and possible lab work and X-rays so you can determine the exact cause of your pain. If necessary, request a referral to a gastroenterologist. I know this sounds extremely daunting, but you shouldn’t have to continue with the symptoms you are having and the distressing diarrhea that follows. Once appropriate testing is accomplished and a diagnosis can be made, proper treatment can begin. Until then, it’s anyone’s guess.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Constipation & Diarrhea.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
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