[39F] Experiencing abdominal pain, chest tightness, and fatigue

Patient Description

A 39-year-old female has been experiencing consistent abdominal pain described as tightness, upset, and pressure around the belly button area for 5 days, with a severity rated at 6 out of 10. The pain is slightly affected by movement. Accompanying symptoms include chest tightness and difficulty taking deep breaths, described as a heavy pressure, rated at 5 out of 10 in severity, and present for 3 days. The patient also reports fatigue, chills, and a single episode of vomiting, with subsequent yellow or green diarrhea. There is no radiation of chest pain and no blood in the stool. The patient has a history of bipolar and borderline personality disorder, diagnosed in 2010, and has been on Wellbutrin 300 mg daily since 2020. She reports an allergy to Rocephin, causing significant swelling, but no other known drug allergies. No other medications are reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there are several possibilities that could explain your symptoms:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes fever and chills.

  • Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in your upper abdomen.

  • Gallstones: These are hard deposits in your gallbladder that can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The pain is often severe and located in the upper right or center of your abdomen.

  • Pancreatitis: This is an inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in your upper abdomen.

  • Heart conditions: While less likely given your symptoms and medical history, conditions such as angina or heart disease can cause chest tightness and fatigue.

Please note that these are possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that may help alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Stay hydrated: Diarrhea and vomiting can cause you to lose fluids and electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water and consider drinks with electrolytes, such as sports drinks or rehydration solutions.

  2. Eat a bland diet: Foods that are easy on your stomach, such as rice, bananas, and toast, may help alleviate your abdominal pain and diarrhea.

  3. Rest: Fatigue can be a sign that your body is fighting off an infection. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and rest.

  4. Over-the-counter medications: Certain medications, such as Pepto-Bismol or Imodium, can help with symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal pain. However, you should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your stool or vomit
  • High fever (over 101°F)
  • Symptoms that last more than a week or get worse
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain that doesn't go away

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of abdominal pain around the belly button?

Common causes of abdominal pain around the belly button include gastroenteritis, gastritis, appendicitis, and sometimes issues related to the intestines such as a hernia or bowel obstruction. It's important to consider other symptoms and consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.


How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and gastritis based on symptoms?

Gastroenteritis typically involves symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes fever, often following a viral or bacterial infection. Gastritis, on the other hand, usually presents with upper abdominal pain, nausea, and a feeling of fullness, often related to inflammation of the stomach lining. A healthcare professional can help differentiate between the two based on a detailed evaluation.


What should I do if I experience chest tightness and difficulty breathing?

If you experience chest tightness and difficulty breathing, it's important to monitor the severity and duration of these symptoms. If they persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms like severe pain or high fever, seek immediate medical attention as these could indicate a more serious condition.


Are there any dietary recommendations for managing diarrhea and vomiting?

For managing diarrhea and vomiting, it's recommended to stay hydrated with water and electrolyte solutions. Eating a bland diet consisting of foods like rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast can help ease symptoms. Avoid dairy, caffeine, and spicy foods until symptoms improve. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.


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