[19F] Experiencing severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female is reporting a constellation of severe symptoms including persistent nausea, incapacitating headaches, postprandial vomiting, episodes of blurry vision, hot flashes with clammy skin, and a recent onset of fever. She describes her bowel movements as infrequent, occurring every one and a half to two weeks, and associated with intense pain, although details on stool characteristics are unclear. The patient is also experiencing significant sleep disturbances due to pain, with periods of constant wakefulness or vivid dreaming, and frequent anxiety attacks, occurring at least twice weekly. She reports sharp, intense pains in the lower abdomen that last for about a minute each, with her stomach feeling distended to the point of bursting. The abdominal pain is exacerbated by coughing or palpation. The patient has attempted to use ibuprofen for relief without significant improvement. No other medications or health conditions have been disclosed.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually due to a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
- Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary if the cause is bacterial.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both.
- Treatment focuses on long-term management of symptoms and may include changes in diet, medication, and stress management.
Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. Symptoms can include burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, bloating, intolerance to fatty foods, heartburn, and nausea.
- Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid and protect the lining of the stomach.
Anxiety: Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as digestive problems, headaches, rapid heart rate, and insomnia.
- Treatment can include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

What you can do

You should seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to stay hydrated and eat bland foods. Avoid spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as these can worsen digestive symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with the headaches, but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen as they can worsen stomach pain. Try to get as much rest as possible, even if you can't sleep.

What you should look out for

Watch out for severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, persistent vomiting, or a high fever. These are signs that you need immediate medical attention. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should also seek medical help.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines