What Could Cause Persistent Pain To The Side And Back For A Week Leading To Several Bowel Movements?

Posted on Tue, 6 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 6 Mar 2018 Answered on

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had side and back pain for one week. Saw my PCP, gave toradol inj, started ibuprofen and flexiril (left over from previous problem) for likely musculoskeletal issue, but not resolved. Pain increased 3 days ago, went to ER, all labs incl U/A nml, Abd/Plv CT nml except full bowel. Gave me IV of toradol, started on stool softner/laxative, continue ibuprofen. About 36 hours later, had several BM, some watery. Pain improved for a short while. That's the last bowel movement I've had, now about 36 hours ago despite continued use of stool softner and increased water intake. Back pain continues, though not as bad as the day of ER visit. Have my bowels stopped working? Any recommendations to get me back on track? Could it be something else?

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Obstructive Abdominal pathology should be ruled out.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Considering your symptoms and non-responsiveness to laxatives with ongoing pain, it is advisable to consider an ultrasound scan of the abdomen at the earliest to rule out any obstructive abdominal pathology.

I hope what I have answered is helpful.

Thank you.

Regards,
Dr. Suresh Heijebu
General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee