[59F] Experiencing acute stomach pain and bloating

What might be happening

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

• Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause upper abdominal pain, bloating, and loss of appetite. This condition can be caused by various factors, including long-term use of certain pain relievers, bacterial infection, and excessive alcohol consumption.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid, which allows your stomach lining to heal. In some cases, antibiotics may be needed to clear a bacterial infection.

• Peptic Ulcer: These are sores that develop on the lining of your stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is burning abdominal pain that extends from the navel to the chest.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid and promote healing. If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be needed.

• Gallstones: These are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause sharp, cramping pain in the upper right or center abdomen.

  • Treatment can range from watchful waiting in asymptomatic cases to surgery in symptomatic cases.

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause upper abdominal pain. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, fever, and increased heart rate.

  • Treatment usually involves hospitalization for pain management, fluid replacement, and sometimes surgery.

Please note that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

1. Over-the-counter antacids may provide temporary relief from your stomach pain. However, they should not be used for more than two weeks without consulting a healthcare professional.
2. Avoid foods and drinks that can irritate your stomach, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages.
3. Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
4. If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking can increase stomach acid and delay stomach healing.
5. Try to manage stress. Stress can increase stomach acid and make your symptoms worse.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

• Vomit blood or have blood in your stool (a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding)
• Have severe abdominal pain
• Have trouble swallowing
• Experience unexplained weight loss
• Have persistent vomiting or nausea
• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment

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