Prolonged Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Solutions - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Prolonged Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Hello： 1. <br>It is important to maintain a balanced diet, including dairy, eggs, fish, meat, beans, and fiber. <br>There is no need to specifically avoid meat. <br>Food should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing, and it is not necessary to only eat congee; sometimes, consumin

I've been experiencing stomach discomfort for quite a while?

Hello, doctor.
I'm sorry to bother you.
Last time, I mentioned that I've been experiencing stomach discomfort for over three weeks, and I've also noticed significant weight loss.
Now, it's been about a month.
I visited a major hospital (Yuanji) where the doctor prescribed me a medication specifically for peptic ulcers (out-of-pocket expense).
He advised me to take the ulcer medication for five days and also prescribed a seven-day course of general gas and anti-nausea medication, asking me to compare their effects.
If there's no significant improvement after a week, I will need to undergo an endoscopy.
If there is improvement, I should continue taking the medication for another two weeks.
The doctor mentioned that given my age, it could be due to stress or my tendency to get anxious (I tend to overthink and worry).
He said the likelihood of having a serious condition is quite low.
Since I study nursing, I asked my nursing instructors, and they also advised me to relax and try to ease my mind (my family and friends often tell me to relax and not think negatively).
I've been trying to manage my stress, and my condition has improved a bit, but I still experience intermittent pain and some digestive issues (my stool has been somewhat yellowish-green; I've been increasing my vegetable intake).
For the past month, my diet has mainly consisted of easily digestible porridge and vegetables, with less meat (I used to eat a lot of fried foods and sugary drinks and often stayed up late).
I haven't consumed sugary drinks and have been drinking more water.
I go to bed no later than midnight.
My parents suggested that I should have an endoscopy to check if there are any issues with my stomach.
Doctor, do you think my symptoms are serious? What kind of condition could this be? I'm a bit worried about my health.
Thank you, doctor, for your help.

Rita, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/09

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
It is important to maintain a balanced diet, including dairy, eggs, fish, meat, beans, and fiber.
There is no need to specifically avoid meat.
Food should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing, and it is not necessary to only eat congee; sometimes, consuming congee can actually increase gastric acid production.
2.
If dietary and lifestyle adjustments, along with emotional regulation, lead to symptom improvement, an endoscopy may not be necessary.
If there is no improvement, a clinical physician can assess the need for an endoscopy.
3.
Most cases are symptoms caused by gastritis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Additionally, pay attention to any issues with bowel movements.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/05/09

More Info

Prolonged stomach discomfort can be a distressing experience, and it is understandable that you are concerned about your symptoms. Based on your description, it appears that you have been experiencing discomfort for over a month, accompanied by noticeable weight loss and digestive issues. Your doctor has prescribed medications for peptic ulcers and gas, and has suggested a follow-up with an endoscopy if your symptoms do not improve.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Peptic Ulcer Disease: Given that your doctor prescribed medication specifically for ulcers, it is possible that you may have a peptic ulcer. These are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Symptoms can include burning stomach pain, bloating, and changes in appetite. Stress and dietary habits can exacerbate these conditions.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Your symptoms may also be indicative of GERD, where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. This can lead to discomfort, especially after meals or when lying down.

3. Functional Dyspepsia: This is a common condition characterized by chronic or recurrent pain in the upper abdomen without any identifiable cause. It can be related to stress, anxiety, and dietary choices.

4. Dietary Factors: Your previous diet, which included fried foods and sugary drinks, may have contributed to your current symptoms. The shift to a healthier diet with more vegetables and easily digestible foods is a positive step.

5. Stress and Anxiety: You mentioned that you are prone to anxiety and overthinking, which can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Stress can lead to increased stomach acid production and exacerbate symptoms of dyspepsia and ulcers.

Recommendations for Management
1. Follow-Up with Your Doctor: Since your symptoms have persisted for over a month, it is advisable to follow through with your doctor's recommendation for an endoscopy. This procedure can provide a clearer picture of what is happening in your stomach and help rule out any serious conditions.

2. Medication Adherence: Continue taking the medications as prescribed. If you notice any side effects or if your symptoms worsen, inform your doctor immediately.

3. Dietary Adjustments: Maintain your current diet of easily digestible foods. Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods that can irritate the stomach lining. Keeping a food diary may help identify any specific triggers.

4. Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reducing techniques into your daily routine. This could include mindfulness practices, yoga, or regular physical activity, which can help alleviate anxiety and improve overall well-being.

5. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day, as proper hydration is essential for digestive health.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including their frequency and intensity. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider during follow-up visits.

Conclusion
While your symptoms are concerning, the likelihood of a severe underlying condition is low, especially given your age and the initial assessment by your doctor. However, it is crucial to follow up with the recommended diagnostic procedures to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. By continuing to manage your diet, stress levels, and adhering to your medication regimen, you can work towards alleviating your symptoms and improving your overall health. Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider is key to finding the right treatment plan for you.

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