Gastrointestinal Symptoms After Stress and Vomiting

Symptoms lasting approximately 2.3 years?

I consulted a doctor and experienced vomiting a significant amount of gastric acid on an empty stomach.
After that, it seems my stomach hasn't been well.
Initially, due to academic pressure (not eating on time and binge eating), I would have severe stomach pain at night leading to bowel movements, or I would wake up in the morning with stomach pain and need to go to the bathroom.
Later, even when the stress decreased, I started feeling discomfort shortly after eating regular meals, sometimes to the point of unbearable pain.
Afterward, I would have a bowel movement, and once that was done, I would feel fine.
I'm worried about what this symptom could mean and whether it indicates a serious health issue.
Thank you, doctor, for your hard work.

Ting Ting, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/17

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Frequent abdominal pain after eating that improves after bowel movements may indicate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
IBS is associated with psychological stress, dietary habits, and can occur after gastroenteritis.
It is recommended to maintain a regular diet, limit the intake of irritant beverages, and manage stress appropriately.
If there is weight loss, fever, severe abdominal pain, or blood in the stool, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2017/03/17

More Info

Understanding gastrointestinal symptoms, especially after experiencing stress and vomiting, is crucial for identifying potential underlying issues. Your symptoms, which include abdominal pain, discomfort after meals, and changes in bowel habits, can be indicative of several gastrointestinal conditions, particularly when compounded by stress and dietary irregularities.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. The gut-brain connection is well-documented; stress can lead to increased gastric acid production, altered gut motility, and changes in gut flora, all of which can contribute to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. In your case, the initial episode of vomiting stomach acid could have been a response to acute stress, leading to irritation of the stomach lining and subsequent discomfort.

The symptoms you describe—pain after eating, the need to have bowel movements shortly after meals, and the relief you feel post-defecation—could suggest a condition known as functional dyspepsia or even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is characterized by a combination of abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, which can be triggered by stress, dietary choices, and other lifestyle factors. The fact that your symptoms seem to improve after a bowel movement is also a common feature of IBS.

To self-assess whether your symptoms might be related to stress or a more serious gastrointestinal condition, consider the following:
1. Symptom Patterns: Track when your symptoms occur. Are they consistently linked to stress or specific foods? Do they improve with relaxation techniques or dietary changes?
2. Dietary Habits: Reflect on your eating patterns. Skipping meals or consuming large quantities of food in one sitting can exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort. Aim for smaller, more frequent meals that are balanced in nutrients.

3. Stress Management: Since you mentioned that your symptoms worsened during periods of high stress, incorporating stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular physical activity may help alleviate some of your symptoms.

4. Medical Evaluation: Given your history of vomiting and ongoing abdominal pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as an upper endoscopy or abdominal ultrasound to rule out conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, or other structural abnormalities.

5. Medication: If your symptoms are severe or persistent, medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and relieve discomfort.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to stress and dietary habits, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out any serious conditions. Keeping a symptom diary, managing stress, and making dietary adjustments can be beneficial steps in addressing your gastrointestinal issues. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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