[43F] Experiencing abdominal pressure, bloating, and shortness of breath
Patient Description
A 43-year-old female presents with a 2-day history of constant abdominal pressure and bloating, with the stomach appearing larger than normal. The patient also reports a shortness of breath that has been occurring for a couple of hours, rated 3/10 in severity, which worsens with walking. The bloating is described as constant and not relieved by any measures, nor is it affected by food intake or time of day. The patient denies any relief from the symptoms. There is no associated fever, chills, chest pain, palpitations, lightheadedness, or dizziness, but reports significant fatigue. Bowel movements are described as normal with light brown stool this afternoon. There is no recent weight loss or change in appetite. The patient has a history of ovarian cancer, treated with surgery and chemotherapy, and a family history of hypertension. The patient is a tobacco user. No other symptoms were reported.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information provided, here are a few possibilities:
- Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, and sometimes shortness of breath due to the discomfort. Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.
- Gastric Ulcer: These are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The symptoms can include bloating, a feeling of fullness, and shortness of breath. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and promote healing.
- Gallstones: These are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can cause pain and bloating. If a gallstone becomes lodged in a duct and causes a blockage, the resulting buildup of bile can cause severe abdominal pain, bloating, and shortness of breath. Treatment can range from lifestyle changes to surgery, depending on the severity.
- Ovarian Cancer: Given your history of ovarian cancer, it's important to consider the possibility of recurrence. Symptoms can include bloating, abdominal pain, changes in appetite, and fatigue. If you suspect this, please seek medical attention immediately.
What you can do
- Try over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter antacids can help to alleviate some of the discomfort associated with bloating and abdominal pain.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help keep your body hydrated.
- Rest: Rest can help your body recover, especially if the symptoms are due to an infection.
- Seek medical attention: Given your history of ovarian cancer and the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What you should look out for
- If your symptoms worsen or do not improve within 24 hours, seek medical attention.
- If you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or blood in your stool, seek immediate medical attention.
- If you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or fainting, these could be signs of a more serious condition and you should seek immediate medical attention.
Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. Please seek care from a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.
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10 mo ago