[47M] Experiencing upper abdominal and back pain with gastrointestinal issues

Patient Description

A 47-year-old male reports suffering from severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back and fluctuates in intensity. The pain is described as sharp, particularly worse on the left side, and exacerbated by quick release after palpation. Accompanying symptoms include muscle fatigue, lightheadedness upon standing, nausea, and foul-smelling, orange clay-colored bowel movements. The lightheadedness is severe, rated 10/10, leading to near fainting when transitioning from a kneeling, crouching, or sitting position to standing. The patient also experiences episodes of fever and chills. The symptoms of gas, sulfur burps, and lightheadedness appear to occur concurrently. Resting and lying down seem to alleviate the lightheadedness. There is no mention of recent dietary changes, medication use, or other medical conditions.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

Gallstones or Cholecystitis: Gallstones can cause sharp, intermittent pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back, along with nausea, gas, and changes in bowel movements. The pain can come and go in waves and can be severe.
- Treatment typically involves pain management and, in some cases, surgery to remove the gallbladder.
Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Symptoms can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting.
- Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies.
Gastritis or Peptic Ulcer Disease: These conditions involve inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the stomach lining, which can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and changes in bowel movements.
- Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, in some cases, antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection.
Orthostatic Hypotension: This is a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down, causing dizziness or fainting.
- Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and medications.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

Try to stay hydrated, especially if you're experiencing diarrhea or vomiting.
Avoid foods that seem to trigger your symptoms.
Stand up slowly to help prevent dizziness and fainting.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe abdominal pain
Blood in your stool or vomit
Sudden, severe headache
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Fainting or loss of consciousness

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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11 mo ago

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