[24M] Experiencing a range of gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics or antiparasitics may be prescribed if a specific organism is identified.

• Gastric Ulcer: Given your history of a suspected stomach ulcer, your symptoms could be related to an ulcer in your stomach or small intestine. Ulcers can cause pain, nausea, and vomiting. Blood in the vomit can be a sign of a bleeding ulcer.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid and protect the stomach lining. If a bacterial infection (H. pylori) is present, antibiotics may be prescribed.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause heartburn, chest pain, and other symptoms.

  • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, prescription medications or even surgery might be an option.

The arm and shoulder pain could be due to a variety of conditions, including:

• Musculoskeletal Strain: Overuse or injury to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause pain and discomfort.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be helpful.

• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition occurs when the blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and your first rib (thoracic outlet) become compressed. This can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. Most people improve with these approaches.

Your persistent cough could be related to your smoking habit. Chronic bronchitis, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is common in long-term smokers and can cause a persistent cough.

What you can do

1. Consult a healthcare professional: Given the range and duration of your symptoms, it would be best to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

2. Lifestyle modifications: Try to quit smoking, as this can exacerbate many of your symptoms. Also, try to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated, especially given your symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting.

3. Symptom management: Over-the-counter medications may help manage some of your symptoms. For example, antacids or acid blockers may help with stomach pain and nausea, while over-the-counter pain relievers may help with your arm and shoulder pain. However, these should be used as a temporary measure until you can see a healthcare professional.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool or vomit
• Sudden, severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Sudden, severe headache or confusion
• Fainting or loss of consciousness

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.