[18F] Experiencing indigestion, fatigue, and other symptoms

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female reports experiencing indigestion rated 6/10 in severity, occurring almost every time she eats and lasting about 30 minutes. The indigestion is not immediately after eating but takes time to develop and is not triggered by specific foods or actions such as lying down or bending over. The symptoms are somewhat alleviated by antacid chews. Additionally, the patient is experiencing fatigue, frequent urination, cramping, nausea, and occasional light-headedness. The patient does not believe she is pregnant.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possibilities:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing symptoms like indigestion.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, your doctor might recommend prescription medications or surgery.
  • Pregnancy: While you mentioned that you don't think you're pregnant, it's worth noting that some of your symptoms (fatigue, frequent urination, nausea, light-headedness, and indigestion) are common in early pregnancy.

    • A pregnancy test can confirm or rule out this possibility.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both.

    • Treatment of IBS is focused on relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible.

What you can do

  1. Try lifestyle changes: Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Don't lie down after a meal. Wait at least three hours after your last meal of the day before going to bed. Avoid foods that trigger your heartburn.
  2. Over-the-counter treatments: Antacids can neutralize stomach acid. Medications to reduce acid production can help. These include H-2-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors.
  3. If you're sexually active and there's a chance you could be pregnant, take a home pregnancy test.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek medical attention.
  • If you experience severe abdominal pain, bloody or black stools, or bloody vomit, seek immediate medical attention.
  • If you have unexplained weight loss or difficulty swallowing, you should also seek medical attention.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain, especially when lying down or after eating.


Can indigestion be a sign of pregnancy?

Yes, indigestion can be a sign of pregnancy, especially in the early stages. Other symptoms may include fatigue, frequent urination, nausea, and light-headedness.


What lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion?

Lifestyle changes that can help alleviate indigestion include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, waiting at least three hours after your last meal before going to bed, and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms.


What are the typical symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Typical symptoms of IBS include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation.


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