[44F] Experiencing sudden bloating, fever, and vomiting

Patient Description

A 44-year-old female has been experiencing sudden and severe central abdominal bloating, accompanied by fever and occasional vomiting, for over a week. The bloating onset is random and not related to meals or menstrual cycle. Attempts to relieve the bloating through various positions or actions have been unsuccessful. The patient also reports changes in bowel habits, with more frequent and softer stools for about a week and a half. The symptoms are consistent and include extreme abdominal pain but no blood in vomit or stool. The patient has a medical history of other conditions, but she believes they are unrelated to her current symptoms.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually resulting from a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.
  • Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. It can be caused by various factors, including long-term use of certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, or infections.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if necessary, antibiotics to treat any underlying infection.
  • Gallstones: These are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever if they block the bile ducts.

    • Treatment may involve medications to dissolve the stones or surgery to remove the gallbladder.
  • Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore on the lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine (duodenum). It can cause abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if necessary, antibiotics to treat any underlying infection.

Please note that these are only possibilities, and the actual cause of your symptoms could be something else.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention given the severity and duration of your symptoms. In the meantime, try to stay hydrated and avoid any foods or drinks that seem to worsen your symptoms.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
  • Blood in your vomit or stool
  • Inability to keep down fluids
  • High fever (over 101°F)
  • Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or feeling lightheaded when standing up

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

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8 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of sudden and severe abdominal bloating?

Common causes of sudden and severe abdominal bloating include gastrointestinal infections like gastroenteritis, gallstones, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. Other causes can include food intolerances, irritable bowel syndrome, or more serious conditions like bowel obstruction.


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

Gastroenteritis often presents with symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, and is usually caused by an infection. Gastritis, on the other hand, typically involves upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating, and can be caused by factors like medication use, alcohol, or stress. A healthcare professional can help differentiate between the two based on a detailed history and examination.


What are the potential complications of untreated gallstones?

Untreated gallstones can lead to complications such as inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), blockage of the bile ducts, pancreatitis, or even infection of the bile ducts (cholangitis). These conditions can cause severe pain and may require surgical intervention.


When should I seek medical attention for abdominal pain and bloating?

You should seek medical attention if you experience severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, inability to keep down fluids, a high fever over 101°F, or signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or feeling lightheaded when standing up.


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1 Comments


Anonymous#23658

8 mo ago

hope you get better soon! sounds like some kind of stomach bug. if it continues might not hurt to see a doctor to see if you need antibiotics

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