[18F] Experiencing poor digestion and related symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you may be experiencing:

• Functional Dyspepsia: This is a term used to describe persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen. It's not related to any identifiable disease or abnormality in the stomach. Symptoms can include feeling full sooner than normal or after eating less than usual, feeling bloated, and nausea.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding foods that trigger symptoms, and managing stress. Over-the-counter medications like Tums can also help manage symptoms.

• Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining. It can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and indigestion.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, in some cases, antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection.

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can cause pain in the upper right abdomen. However, you mentioned your pain is around your belly button, which is not typical for gallstones.

  • Treatment can involve medications to dissolve gallstones or surgery to remove the gallbladder.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where 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 and cause heartburn.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Prescription medications and surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.

What you can do

1. Try eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
2. Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms. Common triggers include fatty and fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
3. Try to manage stress, as it can worsen digestive issues. Techniques can include relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
4. Continue taking Tums as needed, but try not to rely on them for long-term management of your symptoms.
5. Consider trying over-the-counter medications for heartburn and acid reflux, such as omeprazole (Prilosec) or lansoprazole (Prevacid).

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Bloody or black stools
• Bloody or black vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.