[34F] Experiencing upper ribcage pain with associated symptoms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, possible conditions include:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and eating light, bland foods. Over-the-counter medication can help with symptoms.

• Gallstones: These are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can cause pain in the upper right abdomen or in the center of the abdomen. Pain from gallstones can also radiate to the right shoulder or back.

  • Treatment can range from watchful waiting to surgery, depending on the severity and frequency of symptoms.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid and inflammation.

• Heart conditions: Symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty breathing can sometimes be related to heart conditions, such as angina or even a heart attack.

  • These are serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.

What you can do

Given the severity and combination of your symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. While waiting for help:

1. Try to stay calm and rest.
2. If you have aspirin at home and are not allergic to it, consider chewing a 325 mg tablet, as this can help in case of a heart-related issue.
3. Avoid eating or drinking anything until you've been evaluated by a medical professional.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical help if you:

• Feel pain that is severe, sudden, or sharp
• Have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Experience chest pain or pressure
• Have bloody or black stools
• Start vomiting blood or have vomit that looks like coffee grounds

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.