[19F] Experiencing nausea, upper abdominal pain, and sulfur-smelling stool

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, the following conditions could be possible:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is particularly common and is also known as the stomach flu. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a low-grade fever.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be prescribed if bacteria are the cause.

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can cause pain in the upper right abdomen. Nausea and other digestive problems, such as bloating and gas, can also occur.

  • Treatment can range from dietary changes to medications to dissolve the gallstones, or surgery in more severe cases.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. Symptoms can include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can be caused by excessive alcohol use, chronic vomiting, stress, or the use of certain medications, such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs.

  • Treatment often involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, avoiding hot and spicy foods, and reducing stress.

• 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 often involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery may be needed.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD): These are sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is burning abdominal pain that extends from the navel to the chest, which can be worse when the stomach is empty, at night, or a few hours after meals.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid. If an H. pylori infection is present, antibiotics will be needed.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Keep a symptom diary: Note down when your symptoms occur, what you're doing at the time, and what foods you've eaten. This could help identify any patterns or triggers, and will be useful information for your healthcare provider.
2. Stay hydrated: This is especially important if you're experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Try to sip small amounts of water throughout the day.
3. Eat small, light meals: If you're feeling nauseous, you might find it easier to stomach smaller, lighter meals rather than large ones. Avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar, as well as spicy, fried, and acidic foods as these can irritate your stomach.
4. Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus. Getting enough sleep can help your body recover.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool or vomit
• A high fever (over 101°F)
• Signs of dehydration, such as not peeing for 8 hours, severe dizziness or lightheadedness, or very dry mouth and throat
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's really important to speak to a healthcare provider who can take a full history and examine you to make a diagnosis.