Lower Abdominal Pain in Diabetics

Gastrointestinal or GI disorders are expected when you are a diabetic. Three-quarters of those with diabetes report GI problems, according to Drs. James D. Wolosin, FACP, and Steven V. Edelman.

Gastroparesis

• Diabetes can lead to abdominal pain, constipation and other GI problems because a condition called gastroparesis often occurs in diabetics. This condition means that diabetics have difficulty emptying the food from their stomach. Because this process is delayed this causes retention of stomach contents, which results in distention of the stomach, bloating and abdominal pain.

Nerve Damage

• When a person has had diabetes for a long time, the nerves that supply the small intestine can become damaged, which leads to abnormal absorption and motility.

Bacteria

• Stagnating fluids and delayed emptying of stomach contents can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria, which can cause abdominal pain.

Liver Function

• Diabetics can have poor liver function. When there is fatty infiltration of the liver this can result in abdominal pain.

Gallstones

• Diabetics are at risk for developing gall bladder problems and gallstones. When suffering from gallstones, you will experience intermittent pain in the upper, not lower, abdominal area.

Treatment

• Treatment usually involves taking medication that prompts gastric emptying, such as Reglan. Unfortunately, this medicine can cause confusion, tremors, sedation and other negative side effects. A prokinetic agent called Propulsid is good at facilitating gastric emptying and is tolerated well. Implementing a low-calorie and low fat diet and glycemic control, which should lower fatty infiltration of the liver and lower cholesterol levels, may help.