[33F] Experiencing severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating. It can be caused by factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or infection with bacteria such as H. pylori.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if H. pylori is present, antibiotics.

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can cause severe abdominal pain, especially after eating. Nausea and bloating are also common symptoms.

  • Treatment may include medications to dissolve gallstones, or surgery to remove the gallbladder if the gallstones cause significant symptoms.

• Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore on the lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. It can cause severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating. It can be caused by H. pylori infection or long-term use of NSAIDs.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if H. pylori is present, antibiotics.

• Pancreatitis: This is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating. It can be caused by gallstones, excessive alcohol consumption, or certain medications.

  • Treatment typically involves hospitalization for pain management and hydration, and addressing the underlying cause.

Please remember that these are just possibilities, and you should seek care from a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with a healthcare professional, you can:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that seem to trigger your symptoms.
2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
3. Avoid lying down or going to bed soon after a meal.
4. Over-the-counter antacids may help, but please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your pain becomes severe and constant.
• You vomit blood or have blood in your stool.
• You have a fever and chills.
• Your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow.
• You have difficulty swallowing.