[32M] With severe abdominal pain, neurological symptoms, and significant weight loss

Patient Description

A 32-year-old male presents with a sharp, burning pain in the mid-stomach area above the belly button, which started early this morning and has been worsening. The pain is severe, rated at 8 or 9 out of 10, and exacerbated by movement or touch. There is a ball-like swelling in the same area that is warm and very painful. The patient also reports a warmth and tingling sensation in the left hand, described as pins and needles turning warm, occurring on and off for about a month and worsened by laying down and pressure on the stomach. Additionally, the patient experiences facial numbness and tingling, dizziness, chills (without fever), and difficulty thinking and walking straight. Over the past two weeks, the patient has lost 30 pounds and has had trouble holding food down for about two months. Bowel movements are frequent, occurring every 30 minutes, and vary from solid to liquid, with the most recent stool being yellow and watery with particles. The patient has noticed blood in the stool and vomit resembling coffee grounds. Medical history includes liver problems (with liver function at 20%) and gallbladder issues, diagnosed at the end of April. The patient is an alcoholic but is not currently taking any medications and has no known allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you have described, several potential conditions could be contributing to your discomfort:

  1. Peptic Ulcer Disease: The sharp, burning pain in your mid-stomach area, especially if it worsens with touch or movement, could be indicative of a peptic ulcer. This condition involves sores that develop on the lining of your stomach or the upper part of your small intestine. The presence of blood in your stool and vomit that looks like coffee grounds further supports this possibility.

    • Treatment: Typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the stomach lining. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
  2. Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause similar symptoms, including sharp stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Alcohol consumption can exacerbate this condition.

    • Treatment: Often includes medications to reduce stomach acid and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and spicy foods.
  3. Gallbladder Disease: Given your history of gallbladder issues, the pain and swelling in your mid-stomach area could be related to gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder.

    • Treatment: May involve medications to dissolve gallstones or surgery to remove the gallbladder.
  4. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Alcohol abuse is a common cause of pancreatitis.

    • Treatment: Often requires hospitalization, where you may receive fluids, pain relief, and nutritional support.
  5. Liver Disease: Given your history of liver problems and alcohol use, your symptoms could be related to worsening liver function. Symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin), abdominal pain, and swelling are common in advanced liver disease.

    • Treatment: Involves managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause, such as reducing alcohol intake.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool and vomit, and significant weight loss, warrant urgent medical evaluation. Please go to the nearest emergency room or contact your healthcare provider immediately.

  2. Avoid Alcohol: Given your history of liver and gallbladder issues, avoiding alcohol is crucial to prevent further damage and alleviate symptoms.

  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing frequent bowel movements and vomiting.

  4. Follow a Bland Diet: Until you can see a doctor, stick to a bland diet (e.g., bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to minimize stomach irritation.

What you should look out for

  • Worsening Symptoms: If your pain becomes unbearable, or if you experience new symptoms like jaundice, increased heart rate, or confusion, seek immediate medical attention.
  • Signs of Infection: Fever, chills, and increased pain could indicate an infection, which requires prompt treatment.
  • Severe Dehydration: Symptoms like extreme thirst, dry mouth, and reduced urine output are signs of severe dehydration and need urgent care.

Please remember that this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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6 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of peptic ulcer disease?

Common symptoms of peptic ulcer disease include sharp, burning stomach pain, especially when the stomach is empty, bloating, heartburn, nausea, and in severe cases, vomiting blood or having black, tarry stools.


How does alcohol consumption affect gastritis and liver disease?

Alcohol consumption can irritate and erode the stomach lining, worsening gastritis, and can also lead to liver damage, exacerbating liver disease. It can cause inflammation and scarring of the liver, leading to conditions like cirrhosis.


What are the signs that gallbladder disease might be worsening?

Signs that gallbladder disease might be worsening include severe abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty foods, fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and nausea or vomiting. Immediate medical attention is needed if these symptoms occur.


What should I do if I notice blood in my stool or vomit?

If you notice blood in your stool or vomit, it is important to seek immediate medical attention, as this can be a sign of a serious condition such as a bleeding ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding. Prompt evaluation and treatment are necessary.


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