[23X] Experiencing severe abdominal pain with associated symptoms
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:
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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a digestive disorder that affects the ring of muscle between your esophagus and your stomach. This could explain your heartburn, acid regurgitation, and the pain in your upper abdomen and back. It's also worth noting that you mentioned your mother has GERD, and it can run in families.
- Treatment for GERD usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery may be needed.
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Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. The symptoms can include a burning pain in your stomach, nausea, and vomiting. However, you mentioned that you have not vomited.
- Treatment for gastritis usually involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which can help relieve pain and promote healing. If gastritis is caused by an infection, you might need to take antibiotics.
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Peptic Ulcer: These are sores that develop on the lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The symptoms can include a burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, bloating, and intolerance to fatty foods.
- Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid. If an H. pylori infection is causing your peptic ulcers, you'll need to take antibiotics.
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Gallstones: These are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause a sudden pain in the upper right abdomen or in the center of the abdomen, below the breastbone. The pain may shift to your back.
- Treatment for gallstones usually involves surgery to remove the gallbladder. If surgery isn't an option, medications can be used to dissolve gallstones.
Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.
What you can do
Here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
- Avoid foods and drinks that trigger heartburn. Common triggers include fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
- Eat smaller meals. Avoid overeating by eating smaller meals.
- Don't lie down after a meal. Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
- Elevate the head of your bed. If you regularly experience heartburn while trying to sleep, put gravity to work for you. Place wood or cement blocks under the feet of your bed so that the head end is raised by 6 to 9 inches.
- Don't smoke, and if you already do, try to quit. Smoking decreases the lower esophageal sphincter's ability to function properly.
What you should look out for
Seek immediate help if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Bloody or black stools
- Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unintended weight loss
Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.
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10 mo ago