[26F] Experiencing constant stomach pain with cramping

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions might be causing your symptoms:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you'll need to manage long term.

  • Treatment of IBS typically involves long-term dietary adjustments and stress management.

• Gastroenteritis: This condition causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, which can lead to abdominal cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. It's typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies.

• Gallstones: These are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause abdominal pain. The pain is usually in the right upper or middle upper abdomen.

  • Treatment can range from watchful waiting to surgery, depending on the severity of symptoms and whether complications develop.

• Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a finger-shaped pouch that projects from your colon on the lower right side of your abdomen. Appendicitis causes sharp pain in the lower right area of the abdomen.

  • Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the appendix.

Given your family history of colon cancer, it's also important to consider the possibility of a more serious condition like colon cancer, although this is less likely given your age and the nature of your symptoms.

What you can do

You should definitely see a doctor about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Keep a symptom diary: This can help you and your doctor identify triggers for your symptoms.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help prevent dehydration.
3. Try over-the-counter remedies: These can help manage symptoms of nausea and stomach pain.
4. Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can sometimes help reduce symptoms of abdominal pain and cramping.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent or high fever
• Inability to keep down fluids due to vomiting
• Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or infrequent urination

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.