Symptoms of Adhesions

Dear Ask The Doctor: With the economy in it's current condition my employer has dropped our health insurance. I believe I have symptoms of adhesions due to previous colostomy now reversed. Not having a personal doctor I am concerned with the cost of being diagnosed and referal to a specialist. Can you tell me which specialist I should consult for proper diagnosis? My hope is to avoid extra cost of referal to appropriate specialist.

Dear Edward: Adhesions usually present in one of two ways, chronic abdominal pain or bowel obstruction. There are no tests than can make the diagnosis of adhesions. The diagnosis of adhesions is usually made at the time of emergency surgery because of bowel obstruction.

If you are having recurrent abdominal pain you should see your family physician so he may diagnose the problem. The pain may be due to adhesions but this diagnosis is only entertained after other abdominal conditions have been ruled out.