[27M] Experiencing upper stomach pain, nausea, and tightness

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible causes for your symptoms:

• Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause pain, nausea, and a feeling of fullness in your upper belly. It can be caused by factors such as long-term use of NSAIDs, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain bacterial infections.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if necessary, antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.

• Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The symptoms you described, such as pain and nausea, are common in peptic ulcers.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if necessary, antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits in your gallbladder that can cause pain and nausea, especially after eating fatty or fried foods.

  • Treatment may involve medication to dissolve the gallstones or surgery to remove the gallbladder.

• 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 pain and nausea.

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

What you can do

While you should definitely seek medical attention for a formal diagnosis and treatment, here are some things you can do in the meantime:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that seem to trigger your symptoms. This includes fried foods, carbonated drinks, and alcohol as you mentioned.
2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
3. Don't lie down or go to sleep immediately after eating. Try to wait at least three hours after eating before going to bed.
4. Over-the-counter antacids may help with temporary relief of your symptoms.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Blood in your vomit or stool
• Unintentional weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. You should definitely speak with a healthcare professional about your symptoms for a formal diagnosis and treatment.