[20M] With abdominal pain, diarrhea, and body aches post-heavy alcohol consumption

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

1. Acute Gastritis or Alcohol-Induced Gastritis:

   • Rationale: Heavy alcohol consumption can irritate and inflame the stomach lining, leading to symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
   • Typical Treatments: Avoiding alcohol, taking antacids or proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole), and eating a bland diet can help. Your doctor may also recommend medications to protect the stomach lining.

2. Pancreatitis:

   • Rationale: Excessive alcohol intake is a common cause of pancreatitis, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in stool color.
   • Typical Treatments: Hospitalization may be required for severe cases. Treatment includes fasting to rest the pancreas, IV fluids, pain management, and sometimes antibiotics.

3. Liver Dysfunction:

   • Rationale: Heavy alcohol use can lead to liver inflammation or damage, which might explain the changes in stool color and abdominal pain.
   • Typical Treatments: Abstaining from alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and possibly medications to manage symptoms. Severe cases may require hospitalization.

What you can do

For Stomach Acid and Stomach Pain:

• Avoid Alcohol: Refrain from consuming any more alcohol to prevent further irritation.
• Diet: Stick to a bland diet (e.g., bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) and avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.
• Hydration: Drink small sips of water frequently to stay hydrated.
• Over-the-Counter Medications: Consider taking antacids or proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole) to reduce stomach acid.
• Rest: Give your body time to heal by resting as much as possible.

For Diarrhea and Changes in Stool Color:

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or oral rehydration solutions, to prevent dehydration.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the color and consistency of your stool. If you notice blood or if the symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
• Diet: Eat easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet).

For Body Aches and Stomach Cramping:

• Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest to help your body recover.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help alleviate body aches. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, as they can irritate the stomach.
• Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected area may help relieve cramping.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the potential for serious conditions, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
• Blood in your stool or vomit
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Fainting or severe dizziness

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, I am not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You can also use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.