Abdominal Issues: Insights on Gastric Distress and Treatment

Abdominal issues?

Hello, doctor.
About a month and a half ago, I experienced symptoms of bloating and indigestion.
After seeing my family doctor, I was prescribed some medications to relieve the bloating and antacids, but after a few days, I noticed no improvement (perhaps the dosage was too low?).
Later, I started experiencing stomach pain at night, so the next day I sought help from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
The doctor diagnosed me with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and some throat inflammation.
I have been taking Chinese medicine for two weeks now and feel some improvement; I can eat a bit more, and the bloating is not as severe as to make me feel nauseous, but my digestion is still relatively slow.
When the bloating is severe, I find myself going to the bathroom several times a day, sometimes going multiple times but only passing stool once.
There is no diarrhea; my stool is formed but somewhat loose.
I don't experience intense abdominal pain, but it still feels odd.
I have noticed that I pass gas more frequently, and my intestines feel bloated; I feel more comfortable after passing gas.
Does bloating affect the intestines as well? Additionally, I have a slight tingling sensation near the stomach area, specifically above the stomach (which feels more superficial), along the lower edges of my ribs, and near my belly button.
It's not very painful, just mild, and the location varies each time.
Sometimes I feel it when sitting or twisting my waist, which is quite bothersome.
Would it be better to get an endoscopy? Thank you for your patience in reading this.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/29

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, young lady.
The bloating and bowel movement issues in young people are often due to abnormal gastrointestinal motility, commonly known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
It is advisable to first conduct a stool test, followed by medication treatment and dietary adjustments, which can lead to significant improvement.
If there is no improvement, then an endoscopy may be necessary.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Sincerely, Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2016/09/29

More Info

When dealing with abdominal issues such as gastric distress, it is essential to understand the underlying causes and appropriate treatment options. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms related to gastric discomfort, including bloating, indigestion, and some degree of abdominal pain. You have also mentioned that you have sought treatment from both conventional and traditional medicine, which indicates a proactive approach to your health.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that gastric distress can stem from various factors, including dietary choices, stress, and underlying medical conditions. In your case, the symptoms of bloating and discomfort after meals could be indicative of several conditions, including gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or even functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The fact that you have been prescribed medications such as antacids and prokinetics suggests that your healthcare provider is considering these possibilities.

The effectiveness of the medications you were prescribed can vary based on the specific condition. If you found that the initial doses were not sufficient to alleviate your symptoms, it may be worth discussing with your doctor the possibility of adjusting the dosage or trying different medications. Sometimes, a combination of treatments, including dietary modifications, stress management techniques, and medication, can yield better results.

Your experience with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and the improvement you noted after two weeks of treatment is also noteworthy. TCM often focuses on balancing the body's energies and can provide relief for some individuals. However, it is crucial to ensure that any complementary treatments do not interfere with conventional medications you may be taking.

Regarding your question about whether gastric issues can affect the intestines, the answer is yes. The gastrointestinal tract is interconnected, and disturbances in one area can lead to symptoms in another. For instance, bloating and discomfort in the stomach can lead to increased gas production and altered bowel habits, which may explain your frequent trips to the restroom without significant bowel movements.

The sensations you describe near the ribs and around the navel, particularly the "stinging" feeling, could be related to several factors, including muscle tension, referred pain from the stomach, or even anxiety, which can manifest physically. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, leading to a cycle of discomfort.

As for whether you should undergo an endoscopy (gastroscopy), this decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. An endoscopy can help visualize the upper gastrointestinal tract and identify any abnormalities such as ulcers, inflammation, or other conditions that may not be apparent through other diagnostic methods. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience alarming signs such as significant weight loss, persistent vomiting, or blood in your stool, an endoscopy may be warranted.

In summary, managing gastric distress involves a comprehensive approach that includes medication, dietary adjustments, and possibly further diagnostic evaluations. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers to tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific symptoms and concerns. If you continue to experience discomfort, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation or a second opinion to ensure that all potential underlying issues are explored.

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