Abdomen Questions and Answers

Question:

I started my period today, but when I reached for a tampon in the top of my closet, I started getting really dizzy. I figured it was just from the virus that I've had for the past 2 weeks (with severe cold and flu symptoms, faintness included). So I ignored the dizziness and went back to the bathroom. Immediately when i got in there I became nauseous and threw up, though. I felt like my entire abdomen was exploding all of a sudden. I broke out into a sweat and went into hot flashes, and I almost passed out in the hallway coming back to my room. My roommate called an ambulance for me, and I spent the whole day in the hospital doing tests...but they mainly dealt with my earlier virus symptoms (checking my breathing and heart rates). No one ever looked at my abdomen. Then tonight I came home and checked the pad that they had given me to wear at the hospital, and it was covered in a dry, cinder-like black discharge. Not dark-read, like the color of dried blood...but completely pitch black. I'm not sexually active, so I know I can rule out complications from pregnancy...but do you think that my virus has anything to do with today's severe cramps? I always have a heavy flow, which is usually accompanied by bad cramps, but it's never been as painful as it was today...today felt like my ovaries were imploding or something. I've read about cysts that feel like that, and then come out as black discharge. Is that a possibility?

Answer:

THe dark black is probably old blood. You should see a gynecologist right away to find out what the problem is. Not possible to be more specific without more info.

Question:

I had liposuction of my abdomen and thighs and buttocks in March of 1999. My tummy has stayed relatively flat, but my buttocks and thighs seem to be getting bigger again. I still weigh the exact weight. Is this typical and can I correct it with diet at this time. I am 48 years old, exercise 3-5 times a week. Would it help to wear the post surgical garments again?

Answer:

Wearing the garment at this time would be a waste of effort. Since your weight is remaining constant and you excersise quite regularly additional liposuction may be th only solution.

David Ross, MD
Chicago, IL

Question:

I am a 31 year old white female and have had the same problems since I was 19. #1. I was married once before for 10yrs and never conceived, although he already had a child from a previous relationship. Now I'm married to a wonderfully sexual man. We've been together for 2yrs and I'm still not pregnant, although he has 3 children from a previous marriage. Is it me or are the men I've been with just unable to produce anymore? #2. I don't have any discomfort before, during, or after oral sex or when he's on top, however, if I'm on top and/or take it from behind, I cramp up to the point of tears. I can hardly walk. It hurts to urinate. Not because of inner discomfort, but because of the cramping in the lower abdomen. And I feel constipated. The cramping by the 3rd morning has now gone from lower abdomen to throughout my body, i.e. arms, legs, neck, back, anal(no anal sex involved), etc... I am in need of serious counsel, but have no medical insurance and the "free clinics" scare me due to the impersonal and " you're wasting my time" attitudes. What can I do? Will you please help me? I'm pretty unsure and frightened at this point. Thank you for your time and advise/counsel.

Answer:

Hi, Your symptoms make it sound like you might have endometriosis. You can read our press release about this disorder at http://www.reproendo.com/pages/press_advisory_endo.htm Thanks for your inquiry! Dr. Roseff, Director W.E. C.A.R.E. Visit us on the web at: http://www.reproendo.com =================================================== Since I don't know your entire history and haven't examined you, any medical information given to you may be incomplete or inaccurate. Therefore, Dr. Roseff and the W.E. C.A.R.E. staff can not be responsible for any actions taken or not due to the information contained within these communications. These communications are for educational and informational purposes only, and should never be used to replace the information and care rendered by your own doctor. ===================================================

Question:

I am 20 years old, and just recently started having sex. I've noticed that almost every time I have sex, I am constipated for quite awhile afterwards, and need to use a laxative. Also, I occasionally get sharp pains in my abdomen, and a bloated feeling. Is this at all normal? And what can I do about it? Thank you.

Answer:

It is unlikely that these two items are related. See your family doctor if this problem continues.

Question:

#1: Is it safe to give and save my own blood (during late term) for a possible blood transfusion during a C-section? I needed a transfusion during my last pregnency (see below). #2 Is it medically an advantage to have MY OWN blood saved for a possible transfusion? My specific situation:During my prenatal visits on my FIRST pregnancy, I made my wishes and let my concerns known to my doctors and nurse practitioners that I wanted to have a natural delivery, that I wanted to avoid a C-section,and I did not want blood transfusion. I would donate MY OWN blood if I have to have blood transfusion. They told me that everything looked well, and I shouldn't have to worry about C-section and blood transfusion. They mentioned that my placenta is a little low, but it should travel up as the pregnancy progressed. I am Filipino, 60 inches. My pre pregnancy weight was 95 lbs. My husband was Chinese, 69 inches, 135-140 lbs. On my 33rd week, during the routine test, I was confined in the hospital for 5 days for preterm contraction. I was given medicines and a shot of steroid just in case I have the baby then. I was sent home with month bed rest and just bathroom privilege. I gained the most weight during this month. On the 40th week my mucus plug was discharged, but I didn't experience the rush of water breaking out. I rushed to the hospital and was admitted for labor and delivery. I was 140 - 145 lbs when I was weighed. I was slowly dilating. I felt the gush of water come out when one of the doctors poked an instrument inside me. I was kept in bed all this time. When I couldn't bear the pain I asked for pain reliever and later they gave me an epidural. When the contraction was slowing down, they gave me the epidural. This went on for more than 24 hours. Finally at 31 hours of labor when I didn't dilate anymore than 7cm, they decided to give me an emergency C-section, but not before I signed the forms and allowing them to give me blood transfusion. 30 minutes later I woke up from general anesthesia. They told me my baby was fine. She was 8lbs. 16 oz. 21 in. They brought me to the recovery room. About four people massaging my abdomen for about an hour. They gave me 3 pints of blood after they stopped massaging my abdomen. They said my uterus wasn't contracting and I lost a lot of blood as a result. It's been five years since the birth of my first child. I have remarried, and we're expecting our baby on the 29th of December this year. My husband is caucasian, 73 inches tall and 220 lbs. My pre pregnancy weight this time is 98 lbs.I let my current doctors and nurse practitioners know what was my last child birth experience and they gave me the option of vaginal birth after C-section. Right now I am favoring a repeat C-section just because of the ordeal I had the first time. They are somewhat pushing for the vaginal birth. I made it known that I want my own blood if it resulted to C-section. They told me their concern about the shelf life of blood and they delicate state as I proceed the last trimester. I gained 10 lbs. during the last month of my second trimester. I am now on my 31st week, and I weigh 126 lbs.I had a chance to see another doctor for my last visit, and he was questioning why I want to donate my own blood. I told him that although I am not a Jehovah's witness, I don't want blood transfusion,and the risk of getting Hepatitis, AIDS or other disease. I know that the risk is very low. He told me that I could still die with my own blood. He asked about my apprehension on vaginal birth, and I told him my experience,and he said, "stop having big babies". I asked him how do I do that. Then he proceeded to ask me how big my husband is. When I told him my husband is 15 inches taller and bigger frame than me, he suggested that I go for an elective C-section, and I should discuss this with my regular doctor.

Answer:

I would not recommend that you donate your own blood during pregnancy. If you need blood, banked blood is very safe. All of your MDs points are valid.

Question:

Can sagging skin on upper thighs be corrected at same time as tummy tuck?

Answer:

Absolutely, both the abdomen and the thighs can be addressed at the same operation. However, this is rather lengthy surgery and you as the patient must be in excellent health to withstand both operations at once.

David Ross, MD
Chicago, IL

Question:

I have read about several doctors offering penis enlargement, is this something safe that provides very good results? Are there any side effects? How long is the procedure, and what does it entitle?

Answer:

There are many of us who offer this sexual enhancement surgery. There are basically two types of procedures. The first is the lengthening procedure where tiny ligaments are cut which allow the non-erect penis to hang further away from the body. This usually will allow for an elongation of from one to 5 centimeters depending upon the anatomy of the area. The second type of surgery is enlargement of the penis in diameter. For this, most of us use fat injections. This is the only part of the procedure which can and often does require touch-up procedures after since the fat take is variable. We often also perform procedures such as liposuction of the lower abdomen in conjuction with the procedure for further apparent lengthening. There are risks with each of the procedures described. The most common is that of the fat not taking completely and disappearing. Other risks such as infection or bleeding rarely happen. Loss of sensation can occur but is usually transient. The procedures each take about one to two hours although times have been shortenend with the use of lasers for the first procedure. Hope this helps. E-mail me and I can forward a brochure on to you detailing more about the procedures.

Gregory Caputy, MD, Chief Surgeon
Honolulu, HI

Question:

Under what circumstances will insurance pay for: abdominoplasty and mastopexy? I have had six abdominal surgeries within the last ten years.They include:three laser laparoscopies for endometreosis,mid-line C-section(9 1/2lb baby!),total abdominal hysterectomy,and laparoscopic gallbladder. Five of these in the last six years. Needless to say, I could use some reconstruction as far as scars and loose lower abdominal tissue(as I have no muscle control either). As far as mastopexy goes, a lift or reduction would greatly help as far as back discomort goes. I have a great deal of "sagging" due to 65lbs. weight loss at age 19(anorexia)-then 100lbs. weight gain during pregnancy at age 23. Here I am at age 28,with a greatly "sagging" trunk (breasts & abdomen).I live in Greenwood S.C.,and we have a plastic surgeon named Ted Vaughn that I have considered going to for a consultation. I would like to know what my options are before going thru with anything. Of course money, insurance coverge (I have CIGNA HealthCare with FUJI PHOTO FILM INC.), and recovery time are huge factors in my decision. I am 28, and have a body that looks like I am 98-with roadmaps!!! My husband is very supportive of my decision whether to loose weight with diet and exercise,which I have been most unsuccessfull at(I currently weigh approx.220-230),in large part due to my past eating disorders:anorexia & bulemia( bad metabolism as a result I assume), or consult with a surgeon for a little extra help.Any advise or suggestions would be greatly apprieciated.I am a nurse,so I understand risks and complications are factored into my final descion as a priority. Please advise me as far as procedures,cost, and if you know another surgeon in my area that I would better benefit from going to-please advise. Thank you for your time,and please respond as soon as possible- summer is getting too close!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Tara C. Carroll

Answer:

It is very difficult for me toanswer your inquiry (as it would be for any plastic surgeon) without seeing & examining you. From your description, it does sound like you would be a candidate for an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). Whether a mastopexy (breast lift) or reduction mammoplasty would be appropriate would require an examination. Dr. Ted Vaughn is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. He should be able to evaluate your suitability as a candidate for these procedures. I hesitate to quote fees, because there can be a wide variation between areas of the country and wheter the operation is done in an office operating room or in a hospital, and whether you would require post-operative hospital care. Dennis Thompson, M.D.

Question:

I have had a complete hysterectomy, is a tummy tuck right for me, I live in Chattanooga Tennessee

Answer:

If you have loose, hanging skin of the abdomen, a tummy tuck (also known as an abdominoplasty) may be an appropriate procedure for you. You should have a consultation with a plastic surgeon who is certified by The Americal Board of Plastic Surgery to determine if you are indeed a good candidate for this operation.

Question:

Hi. I am a 41 year old male who's weight is aprox. 180lbs.(5'9"). I have gained and lost weight repeatedly in my life. I know that at one point in my early 20's my weight was as high as 270lbs., and that since then, I was able to reduce my weight to a low of 165lbs. All this yo-yo dieting has left me with a considerably larger wasteline. I remember that 6 years ago, when I weighed 165lbs., my measured waistline was aprox. 39",( although I could squeeze into a size 38 quite eaisly). My question is this; Can any of this excess skin be removed surgically, along with the many excessive strech-marks? This is something that has bothered me mentally my entire adult life. However, it seem's to me to be almost impossible to remove this much excess skin and depleted fat cells. I estimate that there must be as much as 15-20lbs of this unsightly, strech-marked skin around my waistline. Please Help, Thank You.

Answer:

It sounds like you may benefit from a two-stage procedure. The first to reduce the excess fat between the skin and abdominal muscles by liposuction. Three (or more) months later, the second procedure to remove the excess skin and stretch marks from the lower abdomen ("tummy-tuck").

Question:

It's been couple of months now since I developed a case of hives. I had blood work done and it shows a mildly elevated liver enzyme, otherwise everything is normal. The hives were preceded by itchy eyes, then hands and scalp. Reactine keeps them under control. I tested negative for hepatitis. Could I have liver damage which is causing the hives? What are other symptomes of liver damage? Is it normal to have a mildly high level of one liver enzyme? I've been experiencing some other symptomes since taking prednisone (12 days) which presist after I stopped using it. These are pain in my lower left abdomen mostly, sometimes pain in left kidney, and sometimes some pain under my rib cage on my left side. Couple of years back I was diagnosed with IBS ,but it went away as mysteriously as it came. The symptomes in my abdomen are similar except that the pain in my lower right persists even after I fall asleep. Yet I remain regular and stool is normal, apetite is good. Could my IBS be the cause of the problem? I'm going to get an ultrasound of my liver. I will also make an appointment with an allergist. Maybe these symptomes mean something to you. Is there anything else you can suggest I do?

Answer:

yes right now I would suggest two things: see a Board Certified Allergist to look for other causes but to also control the hives; and (2) since certain liver diesases can cause hives, I would definitely get a diagnosis of what is going on in the liver

Question:

I am 32 y/o female who has been on the pill off and on since (this time for 5 yrs total 10 yrs altog) i was 16 y/o from preventing pregnancy to acne to ovarian cysts (non cancerous) which i have had on both ovary's at different times i had abdomen surgery to deflate one of them which was filled with water and stayed in the hospital for days my question is I want to have a baby 1 1/2 -2 yrs and i have read that it can take a long time to become pregnant so i want to plan ahead and want to know the facts-and if i need to get off the pill and when??? and on the other end I am afraid of getting another cyst -help

Answer:

It sounds like you may have polycystic ovaries. If when you stop the pill you don't have regualr periods, see your gynecologist. You may need a little help.

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