[19F] With chronic abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and hair loss

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Gastritis or Peptic Ulcer Disease: These conditions involve inflammation or sores in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. Symptoms often include sharp, cramp-like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and feeling sick after eating. Hair loss is not typically associated with these conditions but could be due to stress or nutritional deficiencies.

  • Treatment: Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding spicy foods, alcohol, and smoking, can also help.

• 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. Symptoms can include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

  • Treatment: Treatment often includes lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals, avoiding food triggers, and not lying down after eating. Medications like antacids, H2 blockers, or PPIs can also be helpful.

• Gallbladder Disease: Conditions like gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) can cause sharp, cramp-like pain in the upper abdomen, especially after eating fatty foods. Nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms.

  • Treatment: Treatment may involve dietary changes to avoid fatty foods, medications to dissolve gallstones, or surgery to remove the gallbladder if necessary.

• Celiac Disease: This is an autoimmune disorder where ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and hair loss due to malabsorption of nutrients.

  • Treatment: The primary treatment is a strict gluten-free diet. This involves avoiding all foods containing wheat, barley, and rye.

• 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. Nausea and vomiting can also occur.

  • Treatment: Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and may include dietary changes, stress management, and medications.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to help manage your symptoms:

1. Dietary Changes: Keep a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. This can help identify any potential food triggers. Consider trying a bland diet with easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
2. Hydration: Ensure you stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing vomiting. Drink small sips of water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions.
3. Medications: Over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2 blockers, or PPIs may help reduce stomach acid and relieve symptoms. However, consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
4. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise.
5. Use MDandMe: Utilize the MDandMe app to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and get insights. This information can be valuable when discussing your condition with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Blood in your vomit or stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent vomiting that prevents you from keeping down fluids
• Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urine output

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.