[69F] Experiencing upper left abdominal pain

What might be happening

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

• Gastritis or Peptic Ulcer Disease: These conditions are characterized by inflammation or erosion of the stomach lining, often caused by excessive acid production. They can cause upper abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea. Your history of acid reflux and the location of your pain could suggest this.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and sometimes antibiotics if a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori is involved.

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause upper abdominal pain, often radiating to the back, and nausea. However, this is usually a severe and acute condition, and less likely given the chronic nature of your symptoms.

  • Treatment of pancreatitis often involves hospitalization for pain management and hydration, and addressing the underlying cause.

• Splenic issues: The spleen is located in the upper left part of the abdomen. Conditions such as splenic infarction or enlargement can cause pain in this area. However, these are less common and usually associated with other symptoms.

  • Treatment depends on the specific condition affecting the spleen.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that can irritate your stomach, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine.
2. Try over-the-counter antacids to see if they relieve your symptoms.
3. Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

• If your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• If you develop a fever (temperature over >100.4°F) or chills
• If you notice blood in your stool or vomit
• If you experience sudden weight loss

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.