[27F] Experiencing severe abdominal pain with nausea

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the possible causes for your symptoms include:

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: This condition is characterized by sores or ulcers in the lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). The pain associated with peptic ulcers can be described as burning or gnawing, and it may go through to your back. Nausea is also a common symptom. Your history of potential ulcer formation and the use of ibuprofen (a type of NSAID that can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of ulcers) support this possibility. Black, tarry stools can be a sign of bleeding in the stomach, which can occur with peptic ulcers.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the lining of your stomach and duodenum. If an infection with a bacterium called H. pylori is detected, antibiotics will also be prescribed.

• Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause abdominal pain and nausea. It can be caused by the same factors as peptic ulcers.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid.

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits in your gallbladder that can cause abdominal pain if they block your bile ducts. The pain is often severe and may radiate to your back.

  • Treatment can range from watchful waiting to surgery, depending on the severity of your symptoms and whether complications develop.

• Pancreatitis: This is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain that radiates to your back, along with nausea. It can be caused by gallstones, among other things.

  • Treatment usually involves hospitalization for pain management, fluid replacement, and sometimes surgery.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible conditions, and other causes may be possible.

What you can do

Given the severity of your pain and the possibility of serious conditions such as peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, gallstones, or pancreatitis, it's important that you seek medical attention immediately.

In the meantime, avoid taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen, as these can further irritate your stomach and increase the risk of ulcers and gastritis.

What you should look out for

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

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
• Severe abdominal pain that doesn't improve or worsens
• Symptoms of shock, such as cold, clammy skin; rapid heartbeat; and rapid breathing

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.