[41F] Experiencing severe mid-abdominal pain and bloating

Patient Description

A 41-year-old female presents with a 36-hour history of severe, gnawing, and sharp mid-abdominal pain, rated 8/10 in intensity, accompanied by bloating and nausea. The pain is spread out across the mid abdomen and has not responded to any self-care measures. The patient's last bowel movement was described as small and hard, occurring the previous morning. There is no associated fever, chills, vomiting, or blood in the stool. The patient has a personal history of gallstones with cholecystectomy performed several years ago and a family history of acute and chronic pancreatitis. The patient is currently taking 20mg of Adderall every morning and reports no allergies to medications. There is no other significant past medical history, and no other medications or supplements are being taken.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause burning pain, nausea, and bloating. It can be caused by various factors, including certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, and infections.

    • Treatment typically involves antacids and medications to decrease acid production. In some cases, antibiotics may be needed.

  • Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore on the lining of your stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. Peptic ulcers can cause a burning stomach pain, bloating, and nausea. They can be caused by long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like aspirin and ibuprofen, or an infection with the bacterium H. pylori.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease acid production and antibiotics if H. pylori is present.

  • Pancreatitis: Given your family history of pancreatitis, this could be a possibility. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause a burning, gnawing pain in the abdomen, nausea, and bloating.

    • Treatment typically involves hospitalization for fluid replacement, pain control, and sometimes surgery.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms, but only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to stay hydrated and avoid foods that seem to worsen your symptoms. Over-the-counter antacids may provide some temporary relief.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your stool or vomit
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Persistent vomiting

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of gastritis and how is it treated?

Common symptoms of gastritis include burning pain in the stomach, nausea, bloating, and sometimes vomiting. Treatment often involves antacids and medications to reduce stomach acid, and in some cases, antibiotics if an infection is present.

How can I tell if my abdominal pain is due to a peptic ulcer?

Peptic ulcers often cause a burning or gnawing pain in the stomach, which may be relieved by eating or taking antacids. Other symptoms can include bloating, nausea, and in severe cases, vomiting blood or having black stools. A healthcare professional can diagnose a peptic ulcer through tests such as an endoscopy or a breath test for H. pylori.

What are the risk factors for developing pancreatitis?

Risk factors for pancreatitis include a family history of the condition, excessive alcohol consumption, gallstones, certain medications, and high levels of triglycerides in the blood. It's important to manage these risk factors to reduce the likelihood of developing pancreatitis.

When should I seek immediate medical attention for abdominal pain?

You should seek immediate medical attention for abdominal pain if you experience severe pain, blood in your stool or vomit, unintentional weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or persistent vomiting. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition that requires prompt medical evaluation.

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