[21F] Experiencing abdominal pain, anxiety, and other symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Gastroenteritis: This is inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically resulting from bacterial toxins or viral infection. It can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and muscle weakness. However, it usually also involves symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, which you did not mention.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary in some cases.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: Given your history of a stomach ulcer, it's possible that your abdominal pain is related to a recurrence or complication of this condition. Peptic ulcers can cause a dull or burning pain anywhere from the navel to the chest, which can be worse when your stomach is empty, and can also lead to loss of appetite.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid, along with avoidance of NSAIDs, alcohol, and smoking.

• Anxiety Disorder: You mentioned experiencing anxiety, increased heart rate, and chest pain even when alone at home. These could be symptoms of an anxiety disorder, which can also cause physical symptoms like muscle weakness and gastrointestinal issues.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of psychotherapy (counseling) and medication.

• Migraine: Your description of headaches, sensitivity to light, and pain behind the eyes could be indicative of migraines. Migraines are recurrent headaches that cause moderate to severe pain that is throbbing or pulsing. The pain is often on one side of your head. You may also have other symptoms, such as nausea and weakness.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.

Please note that these are just possibilities based on your symptoms and should not be taken as a diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation.

What you can do

1. Rest and hydrate: Regardless of the cause, rest and hydration are generally beneficial when you're feeling unwell.
2. Over-the-counter remedies: For your headaches and eye pain, you might find relief with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, these should be used sparingly and only as directed.
3. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: If you're feeling anxious, techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and mindfulness meditation may help to reduce your symptoms.
4. Keep a symptom diary: Tracking your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers, can be helpful information to share with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

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

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool or vomit
• Sudden, severe headache or the worst headache of your life
• Difficulty speaking, moving, or understanding, as these could be signs of a stroke
• Any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care.