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Had A Hemicolectomy For Severe Diverticulits. Had Infectious Disease. Abdomen Making Squishing Sound. Taking ABX Treatment. Suggestions?
Question: I had a left hemicolectomy for severe diverticulits1.5 yrs ago. I had a complicated course as I am allergic to many of the antibiotics prescribed to clear up the infection. I was followed by infectious disease and an allergist while in the hospital. I was desensitized to the antibiotics necessary and each ABX treatment was accompanied by IV Benadryl and I was on a course of steroids.. I had a PIC line in and continued on ABX for 6 weeks following surgery.
Recently I have developed a vey distended upper abdomen below my bustline and above my belly button. I never had a big belly. It sticks out farther than my lower abdomen and when I push on it, it makes a squishing sound and feels like there is air in there. When I bend over, I feel like I am bending over a pillow and it makes the same squishy sound. I am uncomfortable but not in excruciating pain. I am frightened and don't know what to do or who to see.
Recently I have developed a vey distended upper abdomen below my bustline and above my belly button. I never had a big belly. It sticks out farther than my lower abdomen and when I push on it, it makes a squishing sound and feels like there is air in there. When I bend over, I feel like I am bending over a pillow and it makes the same squishy sound. I am uncomfortable but not in excruciating pain. I am frightened and don't know what to do or who to see.
Brief Answer:
Exclusion of an intestinal obstruction necessary.
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the query,
Abdominal distension after surgery as such is a major concern. It might be important to know if you experience any abdominal pain, vomiting of problems with stool like constipation.
Post operative intestinal obstruction is usually due to adhesions arising from the surgery. An abdominal ultrasound and a plain film of the abdomen, after a proper clinical review and physical examination are important to make this diagnosis.
I suggest you consult a general surgeon. Thanks and kind regards. Do not hesitate asking further questions if need be.
Bain LE, MD.
Exclusion of an intestinal obstruction necessary.
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the query,
Abdominal distension after surgery as such is a major concern. It might be important to know if you experience any abdominal pain, vomiting of problems with stool like constipation.
Post operative intestinal obstruction is usually due to adhesions arising from the surgery. An abdominal ultrasound and a plain film of the abdomen, after a proper clinical review and physical examination are important to make this diagnosis.
I suggest you consult a general surgeon. Thanks and kind regards. Do not hesitate asking further questions if need be.
Bain LE, MD.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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