[23X] Experiencing severe abdominal pain with associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 23-year-old individual assigned 'other' at birth presents with severe abdominal pain described as a pressure-like sensation, rated 10/10, predominantly in the upper rib cage and radiating to the back. The pain, which started last week, is worsened by lying down and is somewhat alleviated by Tums. Accompanying symptoms include heartburn, acid regurgitation, and nausea without vomiting. The patient experiences loose stools and has a history of endometriosis, joint hypermobility, non-dangerous liquid pockets in the brain, depression, anxiety, two knee surgeries, and previously diagnosed scoliosis. Current medications include Deluxetin (30 mg) for two years and Syrea (30 mg) for four months. The patient has allergies to certain UTI medications and latex. There is a family history of GERD.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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:

  1. Avoid foods and drinks that trigger heartburn. Common triggers include fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
  2. Eat smaller meals. Avoid overeating by eating smaller meals.
  3. Don't lie down after a meal. Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

11 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Acid Reflux (GERD): American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of GERD and how is it treated?

Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, acid regurgitation, and chest pain. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating. Over-the-counter medications like antacids can also help, and in some cases, prescription medications or surgery may be needed.


How can gastritis be distinguished from other gastrointestinal issues?

Gastritis can be distinguished by symptoms such as a burning pain in the stomach, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Unlike other conditions, it may be caused by an infection, requiring antibiotics. Diagnosis often involves endoscopy or testing for H. pylori bacteria.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of peptic ulcers?

To manage peptic ulcers, it's important to avoid foods that irritate the stomach, such as spicy or acidic foods. Reducing stress, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol can also help. Medications to reduce stomach acid and antibiotics for H. pylori infections are common treatments.


What are the treatment options for gallstones and when is surgery necessary?

Gallstones can be treated with surgery to remove the gallbladder, especially if they cause severe pain or complications. If surgery isn't an option, medications may be used to dissolve the gallstones, but this is less common and effective. Surgery is typically necessary if there are recurrent symptoms or complications like inflammation.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback