[36F] Experiencing central abdominal pain with bloating and early satiety

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you may be experiencing one of the following conditions:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (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. Symptoms include a burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating, which might be worse at night, and difficulty swallowing.

  • Treatment typically includes lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery might be needed.

• Dyspepsia (Indigestion): This is a term that describes discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. It's not a disease, but rather a group of symptoms you experience, including abdominal pain and a feeling of fullness soon after you start eating. Although indigestion is common, each person may experience indigestion in a slightly different way.

  • Treatment of indigestion is often lifestyle changes and medication. Tests to diagnose indigestion include blood tests, abdominal ultrasound, endoscopy, and sometimes CT scans.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Gastritis can be caused by irritation due to excessive alcohol use, chronic vomiting, stress, or the use of certain medications such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs.

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

• Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD): Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain.

  • Treatment usually involves medication to decrease stomach acid. If a bacteria called H. pylori is causing your peptic ulcers, you'll need antibiotics.

What you can do

1. Continue taking your Omeprazole as prescribed. This medication is a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
2. Try to identify any foods or drinks that worsen your symptoms and try to avoid them. These can often include fatty foods, spicy foods, chocolate, caffeinated and carbonated drinks, and alcohol.
3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
4. Don't lie down or go to sleep for at least three hours after eating.
5. Raise the head of your bed so that your head and chest are higher than your feet.
6. Try to reduce stress in your life as much as possible.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• Bloody or black stools
• Bloody or black vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unintentional weight loss
• Appetite changes

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.