[24M] Experiencing abdominal pain with reflux

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Indigestion or Dyspepsia: This is a common condition that can cause a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the upper abdomen, often after eating. It can also cause symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. It's usually not serious and can often be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.

  • Treatment typically involves dietary changes, stress management, and over-the-counter antacids or acid blockers.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where 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 symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux.

  • Treatment often involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, your doctor might recommend prescription medications or even surgery.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can cause abdominal discomfort and is often associated with nausea, vomiting, and feelings of fullness in your upper abdomen after eating.

  • Treatment usually involves taking a medication to reduce stomach acid, allowing your stomach lining to heal.

What you can do

While waiting to see a doctor, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger reflux, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
2. Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day.
3. Don't lie down or go to bed soon after eating. Wait at least three hours.
4. Elevate the head of your bed if you regularly experience heartburn at night or while trying to sleep.
5. Try over-the-counter remedies to help reduce your heartburn.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Bloody or black stools
• Bloody or black vomit
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unintended weight loss

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 accurate information.