[26M] Experiencing abdominal pressure and anxiety

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• 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, causing discomfort or a feeling of a lump in your throat. It can also cause heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest. GERD can be exacerbated by certain foods, including fatty or fried foods.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Prescription medications or even surgery may be needed in severe cases.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you'll need to manage long term.

  • Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. Mild signs and symptoms can often be controlled by managing stress and by making changes in your diet and lifestyle.

• Anxiety: Anxiety can cause a wide variety of physical symptoms, including stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and difficulty swallowing. It's also possible that your anxiety symptoms are being exacerbated by your physical symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and medication.

Please remember that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. Only a healthcare professional can provide a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Manage your diet: Try to identify any foods or drinks that seem to trigger your symptoms and avoid them. Common triggers include alcohol, caffeine, fatty foods, and certain types of fiber. Drinking plenty of water and eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help.

2. Manage your stress: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate both GERD and IBS symptoms. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga may help reduce your anxiety and improve your gastrointestinal symptoms.

3. Over-the-counter treatments: Antacids can provide quick relief from heartburn. For more severe symptoms, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors can reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes.

4. Seek professional help: If your symptoms persist or worsen, make sure to seek medical attention. It's important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Bloody or black stools
• Vomiting blood or black material
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dry skin, fatigue, and lightheadedness

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 recommendations.