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

What might be happening

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

• Gastritis or Peptic Ulcer Disease: These conditions are characterized by inflammation or erosion of the stomach lining, which can cause abdominal pain, particularly when the stomach is empty. Gastritis can also cause loss of appetite and weight loss. The fact that your pain is somewhat relieved by eating and is located in the upper left quadrant of your abdomen suggests this as a possibility.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the stomach lining. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary if a bacterial infection (such as H. pylori) is present.

• Pancreatitis: This is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause upper abdominal pain that sometimes radiates to the back, nausea, and loss of appetite. However, pancreatitis usually causes severe pain and is often associated with alcohol use or gallstones, neither of which you mentioned.

  • Treatment typically involves hospitalization for pain management and fluid replacement. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Gastrointestinal malignancies: Given your age and symptoms of weight loss and persistent abdominal pain, it is important to rule out malignancies of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or pancreatic cancer. However, these are less likely given the relatively short duration of your symptoms and the absence of other symptoms such as vomiting, changes in bowel habits, or blood in your stool.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

• Functional Dyspepsia: This is a chronic disorder of sensation and movement in the upper digestive tract, which can cause symptoms similar to yours. However, functional dyspepsia is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning it is only considered after other causes have been ruled out.

  • Treatment typically involves dietary changes, medications to reduce stomach acid, and sometimes medications to help the stomach empty more quickly.

What you can do

It's important to see a healthcare provider for a formal evaluation. They may want to perform further tests, such as blood tests, an abdominal ultrasound, or an endoscopy (a procedure that uses a flexible tube with a light and camera to visualize your digestive tract).

In the meantime, you can try the following to help manage your symptoms:

1. Avoid foods that irritate your stomach, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
3. Try over-the-counter antacids to see if they help relieve your pain.
4. Stay hydrated and try to maintain a balanced diet despite your loss of appetite.

What you should look out for

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

• Severe abdominal pain
• Vomiting blood or having blood in your stool
• A sudden, significant increase in weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• A persistent change in your bowel habits

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.