[66F] Experiencing upper left side abdominal pain with associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 66-year-old female presents with a 2-day history of upper left side abdominal pain described as a burning and stabbing sensation, particularly after eating or drinking, with a severity rated at 6 out of 10. The pain also radiates to the upper back. Accompanying symptoms include nausea and a mild, dry cough that occurs mostly after eating, persisting for 2 weeks. The patient experiences a monthly throbbing headache rated at 3 out of 10. The patient's medical history includes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), high blood pressure, and rheumatoid arthritis, diagnosed 4 years ago. No recent injuries, fever, chills, changes in stool color, chest pain, or shortness of breath were reported. The patient is unsure about family medical history and cannot recall all medications but does not take any over-the-counter or prescription medications regularly for pain or inflammation.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the possible causes of your symptoms could include:

  • Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause upper abdominal pain, especially after eating or drinking. The pain can sometimes radiate to the back. It can also cause nausea. The fact that you have a history of acid reflux (GERD) increases the likelihood of this condition.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if applicable, antibiotics to eliminate a bacterium called H. pylori.

  • Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops in the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The symptoms can be similar to gastritis, including pain after eating or drinking, and can also cause nausea.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if applicable, antibiotics to eliminate a bacterium called H. pylori.

  • Pancreatitis: This is an inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back, as well as nausea. However, this condition usually causes severe pain and is less likely based on your description.

    • Treatment usually involves hospitalization for pain control and fluid replacement.

Please note that these are potential explanations based on the information you've provided, and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Avoid foods and drinks that can irritate your stomach, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine.
  2. Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
  3. Over-the-counter antacids may help with temporary relief of your symptoms.
  4. If you smoke, quitting can help improve your symptoms.
  5. Try to manage stress as it can exacerbate your symptoms.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Vomiting blood or having blood in your stool
  • A sudden, sharp increase in your pain
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Severe nausea and vomiting

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

10 mo ago

Similar Stories

[68F] Experiencing upper left abdominal pain with associated symptoms

[69F] Experiencing upper left abdominal pain

[66M] Experiencing left-sided abdominal pain with systemic symptoms

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of gastritis and how is it treated?

Common symptoms of gastritis include upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating. Treatment often involves medications to reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers, and antibiotics if an H. pylori infection is present.

How can I differentiate between gastritis and a peptic ulcer?

Both gastritis and peptic ulcers can cause similar symptoms like abdominal pain and nausea. However, peptic ulcers may cause more severe pain and can lead to complications like bleeding. A definitive diagnosis often requires an endoscopy or other diagnostic tests.

What lifestyle changes can help manage GERD symptoms?

To manage GERD symptoms, avoid trigger foods and drinks such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Eat smaller, more frequent meals, avoid lying down immediately after eating, maintain a healthy weight, and consider elevating the head of your bed.

When should I seek immediate medical attention for abdominal pain?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, blood in your stool, a sudden sharp increase in pain, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, as these could indicate a serious condition.

Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Similar Stories

[68F] Experiencing upper left abdominal pain with associated symptoms

[69F] Experiencing upper left abdominal pain

[66M] Experiencing left-sided abdominal pain with systemic symptoms

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback