A 25-year-old accountant is seen in the clinic complaining of crampy abdominal pain after meals.She is often constipated and takes laxatives, which are followed by a couple of days of diarrhea.She temporarily feels better after a bowel movement.She states she is embarrassed by flatulence and has abdominal distension.She has had no weight loss or blood in her stool.This problem has gone on for about 6 months.What should the next step be?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first step in evaluating a patient with abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms is to obtain a complete history, which should include details regarding her diet, bowel habits, medication use, and medical history. Further testing or referrals can be determined based on the results of the history and physical exam. A barium enema or Bernstein's test may be considered if the history suggests possible underlying conditions, but these tests should not be ordered as the initial step. Antispasmodics may be prescribed, but it is important to establish a diagnosis first.

A 25-Year-Old Accountant Is Seen in the Clinic Complaining of Crampy