[44F] Experiencing severe abdominal, chest, and back pain with nausea

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is particularly common and is highly infectious. Symptoms can include diarrhea, stomach pain, cramping, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is identified.

• Gastritis or Peptic Ulcer Disease: Inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach, which can be acute or chronic. It can be caused by excessive alcohol use, chronic vomiting, stress, or the use of certain medications such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs. It may also be caused by any of the following: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): A bacteria that lives in the mucous lining of the stomach; without treatment, the infection can lead to ulcers, and in some people, stomach cancer.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid, which allows the stomach lining to heal. In the case of H. pylori infection, antibiotics are also used.

• Gallstones: Gallstones are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can block the flow of bile. Most people with gallstones have no symptoms. However, if a gallstone lodges in a duct and causes a blockage, the resulting signs and symptoms may include sudden and rapidly intensifying pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen, the center of your abdomen, just below your breastbone; back pain between your shoulder blades; pain in your right shoulder; and nausea or vomiting.

  • Treatment options include surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), medications to dissolve gallstones, and procedures to remove the gallstones.

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation in the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic. Causes include gallstones, alcohol consumption, certain medications, high triglyceride levels, abdominal surgery, smoking, certain infections, injury to the abdomen, and some genetic disorders.

  • Treatment typically involves hospitalization for intravenous (IV) fluids, medications for pain, and fasting to rest the pancreas, followed by a low-fat diet. If gallstones are the cause, you might need surgery to remove your gallbladder.

What you can do

It is important that you seek immediate medical attention given the severity and duration of your symptoms. In the meantime, try to stay as hydrated as possible, especially because you're experiencing diarrhea and vomiting.

What you should look out for

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

• Your pain becomes unbearable
• You have a high fever (over 101°F)
• You're unable to keep down fluids due to constant vomiting
• Your diarrhea persists for more than a few days
• You notice blood in your vomit or stool

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice.