Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Stomach Pain and Treatment

Gastrointestinal issues

Hello Doctor: At the beginning of September this year, I visited a clinic due to feeling unwell.
The doctor diagnosed me with heat exhaustion.
The next day, after taking the medication, I experienced severe stomach pain in the afternoon.
I returned to the clinic, and they diagnosed me with acute gastroenteritis.
After taking medication for two weeks without improvement, I went to a larger hospital where I underwent an endoscopy, abdominal ultrasound, and abdominal X-ray.
They found that I have a mild gastric ulcer and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
I mentioned to the doctor that I also experience pain in my intestines, and the doctor indicated it was related to the small intestine.
I then had a stool test, which the doctor said was normal, but I still experience pain below my navel.
I have regular bowel movements once a day, but after taking medication for colitis, there was no improvement.
I was then switched to medication for irritable bowel syndrome.
My stools are thick at the beginning and unformed at the end, and I have been troubled by this for over a month.
Doctor, can you please tell me what is wrong with me? I am very worried.

Xiao Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/19

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
Serious illnesses should have been ruled out; you only have irritable bowel syndrome.
With dietary adjustments and medication, you should be fine.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2016/10/19

More Info

It sounds like you have been experiencing a complex array of gastrointestinal symptoms that have persisted for quite some time. Based on your description, it appears that you may be dealing with a combination of conditions, including gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and possibly irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Gastritis and Peptic Ulcers: Your diagnosis of mild gastric ulcers and gastritis suggests that your stomach lining is inflamed. This can lead to symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, and a feeling of fullness after eating. The fact that you have been experiencing significant stomach pain after meals and have been prescribed medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) indicates that your doctor is trying to reduce stomach acid to promote healing.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The presence of GERD can explain your symptoms of heartburn, chest pain, and the bitter taste in your mouth. GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. This can be exacerbated by certain foods, eating habits, and even stress.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Your description of bowel movements being irregular, with some days experiencing loose stools and others being more formed, could suggest IBS. This condition is characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, often triggered by stress, diet, or other factors.

Treatment Considerations
1. Medications: It’s crucial to continue the medications prescribed by your doctor, including PPIs for acid reduction and any other medications for IBS or bowel regulation. If you find that your symptoms do not improve after completing the course of antibiotics or if they worsen, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential food triggers that may exacerbate your symptoms. Common triggers for both GERD and IBS include spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat meals. Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones can also help manage symptoms.

3. Stress Management: Since stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health, incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise may be beneficial.
4. Further Testing: If your symptoms persist despite treatment, further evaluation may be warranted. This could include additional imaging studies, endoscopy, or consultations with a gastroenterologist specializing in functional gastrointestinal disorders.

5. Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you are experiencing gastrointestinal distress. However, be cautious with the timing of fluid intake; drinking large amounts of water immediately before or during meals can exacerbate bloating and discomfort.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are multifaceted and may require a comprehensive approach to treatment. It is important to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and report any new or worsening symptoms. They can help tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns. Remember, managing gastrointestinal issues often requires patience and a willingness to adjust lifestyle and dietary habits. If your symptoms continue to be a source of concern, seeking a second opinion or further evaluation at a specialized center may provide additional insights and treatment options.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes and Solutions for Chronic Discomfort

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort since childhood, including frequent vomiting and abdominal pain. Sometimes, I suddenly have to vomit in the middle of a meal, and afterwards, I feel very hungry. I also tend to have abdominal pain during stressful...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. There are many and complex causes of abdominal pain. It can originate from the abdomen itself, such as infections, inflammation, ulcers, vascular lesions, trauma, or organ pathology; it may also be due to issues in the thoracic cavity, spine, or pelvic cavity. Additionally, fu...

Chronic Abdominal Pain: Understanding Complications and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. Since February of last year, I have been experiencing abdominal pain every night, and sometimes I have to rush to the bathroom in the middle of the night. At that time, my bowel movements had a fishy odor, the color was abnormal, and they were not well-formed. Howe...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If the weight is normal, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be the most likely cause. In addition to using gastrointestinal medications for management, a stool occult blood test can be conducted. If necessary, a referral to a mental health specialist may help with anxiety control...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Solutions

Hello, doctor! I've been experiencing gastrointestinal issues since I was 15 or 16 years old. I've seen quite a few doctors, but they all just diagnosed me with gastritis. I have been taking medication, and it usually helps, but over the past couple of years, my stomach...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The organs in the upper abdomen include the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, abdominal cavity, as well as muscles and nerves. If there are issues with these organs, it can sometimes cause pain. If you are experiencing stomach pain, along with symptoms of ...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Causes

Hello Doctor: For the past two days, I have been experiencing pain on the left side of my abdomen near the navel, along with cramping in my intestines and bloating in my stomach. Although there are occasional discomforts, I do not have diarrhea or an urge to have a bowel movement...

Dr. Cai Yaozhou reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It may be Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): The following relevant information is provided: Clinically, Irritable Bowel Syndrome can present with three main categories of symptoms: (1) Chronic intermittent diarrhea, typically without abdominal pain. Diarrhea often occurs in the mor...