[18M] Experiencing nausea and abdominal pain with diarrhea

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the U.S. The symptoms are often a low-grade fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial cause is identified.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). It's often caused by the same bacterium that causes most stomach ulcers. Regular use of certain pain relievers or drinking too much alcohol can also contribute to gastritis.

  • Treatment typically involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which helps relieve gastritis symptoms and promotes healing.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: This is a condition in which painful sores or ulcers develop in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum). Symptoms can include burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, bloating or belching, intolerance to fatty foods, heartburn, and nausea.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid. If a bacteria called H. pylori is causing your peptic ulcers, you'll need to take antibiotics.

• Gallstones: These are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause abdominal pain and nausea. Gallstones are more common in women, but can occur at any age and in either sex.

  • Treatment can involve a change in diet or removal of the gallbladder, depending on the severity of the condition.

• 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, causing symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, dry cough, and the feeling of a lump in your throat.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Stronger medications and surgery are options if other treatments don't help.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to alleviate your symptoms:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water, broth or an over-the-counter, oral rehydration solution.
2. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting enough sleep can help.
3. Eat light: Try to eat when you feel up to it, but opt for light foods that are easy on your stomach like rice, crackers or bananas.
4. Avoid certain foods: Dairy, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and fatty or highly seasoned foods can make your symptoms worse.
5. Over-the-counter medication: There are over-the-counter medications that can help with symptoms of nausea and abdominal discomfort.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your symptoms persist for more than a few days
• If you notice blood in your stool or vomit
• If you develop a fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
• If you have severe abdominal pain
• If you become dehydrated — signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, deep yellow urine or little or no urine, and severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.