[47F] With dull abdominal pain and fatigue

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female reports experiencing dull abdominal pain described as a feeling of fullness similar to overeating. The pain is rated as a 2 out of 10 in severity and is located approximately 3 inches above and to the right and left of the belly button. The pain is frequent, can last for hours, and seems to worsen with stress. Rest and bathroom visits provide some relief. The patient denies any changes in stool, nausea, vomiting, or fever. She also reports experiencing some fatigue. A recent urine test showed a high specific gravity of 1.030, suggesting possible dehydration. No other symptoms were reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

Stress-Related Digestive Issues: Stress can often lead to digestive symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and fatigue. The fact that your symptoms worsen with stress and improve with rest suggests this might be a contributing factor.
Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and fatigue. These symptoms can be exacerbated by stress and may not always be accompanied by changes in stool.
Dehydration: The high specific gravity in your urine test suggests you might be slightly dehydrated, which can contribute to fatigue and general discomfort.

It's important to note that these are just possibilities, and a healthcare professional can provide a more accurate diagnosis. They may recommend tests such as blood work or imaging studies to rule out other conditions.

What you can do

While you wait to see a healthcare professional, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:

Stay Hydrated: Ensure you're drinking enough water throughout the day to address the high specific gravity in your urine and help alleviate fatigue.
Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help manage your symptoms.
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms using the MDandMe journal. Note any patterns or triggers, such as specific foods or activities, that might worsen your symptoms.
Rest: Continue to rest when you feel discomfort, as this seems to help alleviate your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Be mindful of any changes or worsening of your symptoms. Seek medical attention if you experience:

Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Blood in your stool
Unexplained weight loss
New or worsening symptoms

Remember, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out.

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10 d ago

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