Bloating/constipation - could it be endo? Please share experiences

[jeao]

Hi all,

I’m curious how many of you have had similar symptoms to me and it turned out to be endometriosis. Two years ago I developed bloating and severe constipation. My GP approached this as a digestive issue so I’ve had a blood test for celiac disease and a colonoscopy, both normal except the colonoscopy revealed a very “twisted and loopy colon”. I’ve tried various elimination diets, including low FODMAP, no difference to the constipation and bloating. When I was able to manage the constipation through supplements like magnesium, the bloating went away. However, in the last couple of months the bloating is constant and severe, despite daily BMs with the help of supplements, to the point my skin is stretched and it hurts. In my reading as to what the cause could be I came across endometriosis. I was able to get an appointment with an apparent endo expert and he dismissed me right away because I don’t have severe pain. I explained that before I had kids I had really bad cramps that I need painkillers and heating pads for but that made no difference to him. I have extremely heaving periods where I soak through a super absorbent tampon and pad every two hours so he prescribed birth control pills for that (which I am not taking). I recently went to another gyn and she told me that endo would not show up at 40 years of age. I again told her about my past and current symptoms. She ordered a transvaginal ultrasound but I’ve read that ultrasounds are not a reliable way to diagnose endo. I’m not looking and hoping for endo but from everything I’ve read and given my symptoms I feel it could be an answer but doctors don’t take me seriously to even look for it (not that I’m keen on lap). What to do? Has anyone else had a similar experience?

Thanks!

[Lejay]

Endo symptoms are different for everyone and some people actually don't have endo symptoms until they struggle to fall pregnant and then it is discovered.

Do you have any other regular symptoms and/or pains that are either ongoing/increased or are new? Stomach pains etc

Does the bloating and constipation happen at certain times, for example around you period?

Are you on any medication or vitamins that has constipation and bloating as side effects?

[MrsDuvet]

I had a laparoscopy and was diagnosed at 40 so whoever said it ‘wouldn't Show up at 40’ was wrong!

[Linley]

So sorry you are not able to get a proper diagnosis -we are all different and my Gynae diagnosed moderate Endo when I was in my middle 30's - He said mild Endo can cause severe pain, the pain its personal to your endurance level. Every month until I was diagnosed I felt I had the flu from the waist downwards. Insist on a Lap and for the bloating ask for a ca-125 blood test. Good Luck!