Managing Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Continue Medication or Seek Further Testing

Gastrointestinal discomfort

Hello, Doctor.
I had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in early December last year, and the results showed mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
After taking medication for nearly three months, I felt that the GERD had improved.
However, after experiencing consecutive colds at the end of February (recovering from one cold for three days and then catching another for two weeks), I began to feel a sharp pain around my navel area, about three fingerbreadths away.
I also had bowel movements three times a day.
A doctor at the clinic performed an ultrasound and diagnosed it as a bacterial infection.
After taking medication, the pain improved somewhat (from experiencing sharp pain multiple times a day to three to four times), but I have not fully recovered.
Therefore, at the end of March, I went to the hospital, and a stool test for occult blood came back normal.
The doctor mentioned mild intestinal dysmotility.
After taking medication for two weeks, the sharp pain sensation improved, but I still occasionally felt discomfort in my abdomen, so I stopped taking the medication.

In early May, I started to feel mild sharp pain in my stomach once every three to four days, and I was having three bowel movements a day, so I consulted a doctor again.
After taking medication, my condition felt much milder, but it still hasn't completely resolved.
Recently, I've noticed that my gastroesophageal reflux seems to have recurred; after meals, I feel a bit of acid reflux in my throat, but it resolves after drinking water for about half an hour.

My current issue is that, since my symptoms are mild and I don't feel uncomfortable all day, I only occasionally feel that my gastrointestinal tract is a bit off, and my stomach sometimes has a brief sharp pain (lasting less than a second).
However, I often feel bloated after eating or drinking water.
My meals are normal, and I believe that long-term medication may not be ideal.
Should I continue taking the medication? If so, for how long? Or do I need to undergo another endoscopy? P.S.
I have been avoiding foods that may trigger gastroesophageal reflux.

Hui, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/16

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss.

1.
Reflux issues often tend to recur, so it is advisable to have sufficient medication on hand and use it as needed to alleviate discomfort.

2.
After gastroenteritis, it is common to experience abnormal digestive motility, so it is also recommended to have enough medication available for use if necessary.

Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Chen Shih-Tien

Reply Date: 2016/05/16

More Info

Managing gastrointestinal discomfort can be quite challenging, especially when symptoms fluctuate and persist over time. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing a combination of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and possibly some gastrointestinal irritation or infection, which has led to discomfort and changes in bowel habits.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that GERD is a chronic condition that can be influenced by various factors, including diet, stress, and underlying health issues. The fact that you experienced a series of colds may have contributed to your symptoms, as illness can sometimes exacerbate gastrointestinal issues. The medications you were prescribed likely aimed to reduce stomach acid and alleviate symptoms of reflux, which can be effective in managing GERD.

From your account, it appears that you have had some improvement with medication, but symptoms have not completely resolved. The intermittent nature of your symptoms, such as the occasional sharp pain around the navel and increased bowel movements, suggests that there may be an underlying issue that needs further investigation. It’s also worth noting that while some discomfort is common, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored.

Regarding your question about whether to continue medication or seek further testing, here are some considerations:
1. Medication Continuation: If you find that the medication provides relief, it may be beneficial to continue taking it, especially if you are experiencing symptoms of GERD. However, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the appropriate duration for medication use and whether a different medication or dosage might be more effective. Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or other acid-reducing medications can have side effects, so regular follow-up is crucial.

2. Dietary Modifications: Since you mentioned that you have been avoiding foods that trigger your GERD, it’s important to maintain those dietary changes. Common triggers include spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods. Keeping a food diary may help you identify any additional triggers that could be contributing to your symptoms.

3. Further Testing: Given that your symptoms have not completely resolved and you have experienced changes in bowel habits, it may be prudent to consider further testing. A repeat endoscopy (gastroscopy) could provide valuable insights into the state of your esophagus and stomach, especially if you have concerns about the severity of your GERD or if there are signs of complications. Additionally, if you continue to experience abdominal pain or changes in bowel habits, a colonoscopy may be warranted to rule out any underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or polyps.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any patterns or triggers. If you notice a significant change in your symptoms, such as increased pain, changes in bowel habits, or the presence of blood in your stool, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly.

5. Consulting a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a gastroenterologist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and tailor a management plan specific to your needs. They may also recommend lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, or alternative therapies that could complement your treatment.

In summary, while it’s understandable to want to minimize medication use, it’s crucial to balance that with the need for symptom relief and overall gastrointestinal health. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, dietary modifications, and possibly further testing will help you manage your symptoms effectively and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed.

Similar Q&A

Managing Persistent Gastrointestinal Discomfort: What Are Your Options?

Doctor: Hello! I have consulted you a few times before, and I apologize for bothering you again. I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort for six months now. The health insurance-covered medication, Pantoprazole, has been taken for over four months, but I still have t...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: (1) In addition to diet, weight management should be emphasized, along with avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption; regular exercise is also recommended. If symptoms do not improve, a repeat gastroscopy may be considered. (2) The term diarrhea should be more precisely de...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Help

I visited my family doctor on January 12th due to symptoms of intermittent cramping pain just above my belly button. The doctor diagnosed me with a cold and prescribed medication. After taking the medication for one day, my stomach still feels very uncomfortable with persistent c...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Gastroenteritis typically has a course of at least 3-5 days, and a bland diet is recommended. Medications are primarily for symptomatic treatment. If severe abdominal cramping does not improve, it may be necessary to adjust the medication, consider intravenous therapy, or investi...

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Testing

Hello, I have been experiencing abdominal pain, gastrointestinal rumbling, and fever for over three months. My bowel movements vary between diarrhea and constipation, and in the mornings, I sometimes have to go to the bathroom several times before feeling completely empty. Occasi...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Whether additional tests are necessary should be determined by the clinical physician, which may include a stool occult blood test or a colonoscopy. It is recommended to adjust your diet and emotions, and to increase your intake of fluids and fiber. If there is still no im...

Persistent Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation

Hello Dr. Chen, Since March and April of last year, I have been experiencing discomfort in my upper left abdomen. I visited two gastroenterology clinics, where I underwent gastroscopy, and the doctors diagnosed me with excessive gastric acid and gastroesophageal reflux disease (...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There should be no major illnesses; you can start taking the medication with peace of mind. Normalize your diet and exercise, and then monitor your symptoms.