[28F] Experiencing upper abdominal pain with bloating and increased bowel movements

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• 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, causing heartburn and a burning sensation in the upper abdomen.

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

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. The inflammation can be caused by certain bacteria, regular use of certain pain relievers, or drinking too much alcohol. Gastritis can lead to burning pain in your upper abdomen and bloating.

  • Treatment usually involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which helps relieve gastritis symptoms and promotes healing.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease: Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach. A burning pain in the upper abdomen is the most common symptom.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid. If an H. pylori infection is causing your peptic ulcers, you'll need to take antibiotics.

• Gallstones: These are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause a sudden and rapidly intensifying pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen. However, you mentioned that your pain is not severe or sudden, which makes this less likely.

  • Treatment ranges from watchful waiting for asymptomatic gallstones to surgical removal of the gallbladder for symptomatic gallstones.

What you can do

You should make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform further tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. In the meantime, you can try the following:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that trigger heartburn. Common triggers include fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
2. Eat smaller meals. Avoid overeating by eating smaller meals.
3. Don't lie down after a meal. Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed.
4. Elevate the head of your bed. If you regularly experience heartburn while trying to sleep, put gravity to work for you.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you:

• Vomit blood.
• Have bloody or black stools.
• Have an ache or tightness in your chest.
• Lose weight unintentionally.
• Have severe abdominal pain.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.