[37M] Experiencing mild abdominal discomfort and bloating

Patient Description

A 37-year-old male reports a dull sensation about an inch above the navel, described as a mild version of being punched in the stomach, occurring intermittently for one week. The discomfort is rated as a 1 out of 10 in severity and is relieved by eating oatmeal and apples. The patient experiences light nausea but no changes in appetite, and no disturbances in sleep due to the pain. Bowel movements are reported as normal in color but soft in consistency. The patient has a history of acid reflux, pre-diabetes, and elevated cholesterol, and is currently taking Atorvastatin (20mg once daily for two years) and recently started on Prilosec (20mg once daily). No family history of gastrointestinal diseases is reported, and there are no known allergies except for an allergy to Fluoroquinolones. No recent use of over-the-counter pain medications, no weight loss, and no other symptoms have been reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating. Your history of acid reflux and the recent use of Prilosec (a medication used to decrease stomach acid) could suggest this diagnosis.
- Treatment typically involves medications to decrease the production of stomach acid, which you are already taking (Prilosec).
Peptic Ulcer Disease: 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, however, a dull, burning sensation in the stomach is the most common symptom.
- Treatment typically involves medications to decrease the production of stomach acid.
Functional Dyspepsia: A persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen; not related to bowel movements, and not relieved by rest or change in position. The cause of functional dyspepsia is unknown.
- Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications such as diet changes and medications to decrease the production of stomach acid.

Please note that these are potential explanations based on the information provided and are not definitive diagnoses. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some suggestions that might help you:

Continue taking your Prilosec as prescribed by your doctor.
Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger reflux such as fatty foods, alcohol, coffee, chocolate, and carbonated beverages.
Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day rather than three large meals.
Wait at least 3 hours after your last meal of the day before going to bed.
Raise the head of your bed so that your head and chest are higher than your feet. You can do this by placing 6-inch blocks under the bed posts at the head of the bed.