[26M] Experiencing severe lower stomach pain with dizziness and heart palpitations

Patient Description

A 26-year-old male presents with severe, generalized lower stomach pain persisting for 2 days, rated 8/10 in severity, unrelieved by any measures. Accompanying symptoms include episodes of heart racing, sweating, dizziness, and lightheadedness, rated 7/10 in severity, lasting for approximately 2 hours. The patient also reports bright red blood upon wiping after a bowel movement at 9 am. There is no fever, vomiting, recent weight loss, or loss of appetite. The patient has a history of panic attacks diagnosed a year ago but does not believe the current symptoms are related to a panic attack. Current medications include Trazadone and Methadone, and the patient denies any known drug allergies. No other medications or changes in medical history were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions are possible:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Symptoms can include stomach pain, diarrhea, and sometimes blood in the stool.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be needed if the cause is bacterial.
  • Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. Symptoms can include a burning stomach pain, feeling of fullness, bloating, and intolerance to fatty foods. In severe cases, it can lead to bleeding in the digestive tract, which might explain the blood you noticed.

    • Treatment usually involves medication to decrease stomach acid. If the cause is a bacterium known as H. pylori, antibiotics are also needed.
  • Diverticulosis: This condition involves small pouches that bulge outward through weak spots in the colon. If these pouches become inflamed or infected, it can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and blood in the stool.

    • Treatment usually involves antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery may be needed.
  • Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. They can cause pain, discomfort, and bright red blood in the stool.

    • Treatment usually involves over-the-counter creams, ointments, suppositories or pads. In severe cases, they may need to be removed.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and a healthcare professional would need to evaluate you to make a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important that you seek medical attention immediately. While waiting for medical help, try to stay as comfortable as possible. Avoid eating or drinking anything that seems to worsen your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your pain becomes unbearable
  • You notice a significant amount of blood in your stool
  • You start vomiting blood or a substance that looks like coffee grounds
  • You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe dizziness

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What could cause bright red blood in the stool?

Bright red blood in the stool can be caused by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, diverticulosis, or gastrointestinal bleeding. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.


Can panic attacks cause symptoms like heart racing and dizziness?

Yes, panic attacks can cause symptoms such as heart racing, sweating, dizziness, and lightheadedness. However, it's important to rule out other medical conditions that might cause similar symptoms.


What are the common symptoms of a peptic ulcer?

Common symptoms of a peptic ulcer include burning stomach pain, bloating, heartburn, nausea, and in severe cases, bleeding in the digestive tract.


How are hemorrhoids typically treated?

Hemorrhoids are typically treated with over-the-counter creams, ointments, suppositories, or pads to relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, medical procedures or surgery may be necessary.


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