[20F] Experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, and sleep disturbances

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female reports sharp abdominal pain located below the ribs, exacerbated by pressure, causing nausea and gagging. She has been experiencing these symptoms for two weeks, along with weight gain and a hard stomach. The patient finds relief from abdominal pain with heat application. Additionally, she describes her bowel movements as small and difficult to pass, with no blood present. She has been experiencing chills and has been told she appears paler, but no jaundice is observed. The patient also reports fatigue and insomnia, with difficulty falling asleep or frequent awakenings, averaging 3-5 hours of sleep. Despite a stressful job as a cashier, she manages stress with medication and feels better during breaks. She is on the Depo shot and takes Adderall, Fluoxetine, and Bupropion. No known allergies, chronic illnesses, or other medications were reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there are several potential explanations for your symptoms:

Gastrointestinal issues: Your sharp abdominal pain, particularly when pressing on the area, along with nausea, could suggest a gastrointestinal issue such as gastritis or an ulcer. These conditions can cause abdominal discomfort and nausea, especially after eating or when the stomach is touched.
- Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and possibly antibiotics if an infection is present.
Side effects from medication: The medications you're taking (Adderall, Fluoxetine, and Bupropion) can sometimes cause gastrointestinal side effects, including abdominal pain and nausea. Additionally, the Depo-Provera shot can sometimes cause weight gain.
- If side effects are suspected, your doctor may adjust your medication regimen.
Stress or anxiety: You mentioned experiencing stress at work and having difficulty sleeping. Chronic stress and anxiety can manifest physically and cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and nausea.
- Treatment often involves stress management techniques, therapy, and sometimes medication.
Constipation: Difficulty passing stools and abdominal pain could be signs of constipation. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and stress.
- Treatment typically involves dietary changes, increased physical activity, and possibly laxatives.

Please note that these are potential explanations and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal evaluation.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that may help alleviate your symptoms:

Try to maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, which can help with constipation.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Regular physical activity can help with both gastrointestinal issues and stress management.
Try to establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve your sleep.
Over-the-counter antacids may help with abdominal pain and nausea, but they should be used as directed and not for an extended period of time without consulting a doctor.

What you should look out for

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

Severe abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting
Blood in your stool or vomit
Unexplained weight loss
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal 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