[28M] Experiencing epigastric pain and gastrointestinal symptoms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Exacerbation: Given your history of GERD and Barrett's esophagus, your symptoms could be due to an exacerbation of 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 and cause symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a sour taste in your mouth.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications (such as avoiding trigger foods, not eating before bedtime, and elevating the head of your bed) and medications to reduce stomach acid. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and heartburn. It can be caused by various factors, including long-term use of certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, chronic stress, or an autoimmune reaction.

  • Treatment usually involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which can help relieve pain and promote healing. If gastritis is caused by an infection, you may need to take antibiotics.

• Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore on the lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. A peptic ulcer can cause a burning stomach pain, which might worsen when your stomach is empty and improve when you eat, drink, or take an antacid.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid. If the cause is a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be necessary.

What you can do

You should definitely consult a healthcare professional about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can:

1. Continue taking your Omeprazole as directed.
2. Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger reflux, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.
3. Try to eat smaller meals throughout the day rather than three large meals.
4. Wait at least three hours after your last meal of the day before going to bed.
5. Elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 9 inches or sleep on a wedge pillow to help gravity keep stomach acid in your stomach.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

• Vomit blood or your vomit looks like coffee grounds.
• See blood in your stool or your stool looks black and tarry.
• Have severe abdominal pain or discomfort that doesn't go away.
• Have trouble swallowing.
• Experience sudden, severe weight loss.

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.