Abdominal Discomfort: When to Consider Endoscopy? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Abdominal discomfort?

If drinking water and eating a small amount of food makes you feel full, what could be wrong with your stomach? I previously went to a gastroenterologist and had an ultrasound, but the doctor said everything was fine and prescribed me medication, which I feel hasn't been effective as I'm still experiencing the same issues.
Two years ago, I had stomach discomfort that kept me awake at night, and I ended up vomiting until my mouth was bitter and I couldn't eat.
I didn't see a doctor then, but I eventually felt better and stopped vomiting, although I still experienced some nausea when eating.
Now, I find that I can only eat a little before feeling full, but I don't vomit anymore.
Occasionally, I have stomach pain.
Based on the above description, do you think Dr.
Chen would recommend an endoscopy for examination? I'm really afraid of having something serious, and I'm worried that the ultrasound might not reveal anything, which is why I'm asking.
😖

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/03

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, the ultrasound indeed does not show any gastrointestinal issues.
Your symptoms can be evaluated through a (self-paid, painless) gastroscopy to rule out specific diseases, but it may just be a case of motility disorder.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shih-Tien.

Reply Date: 2018/09/03

More Info

When it comes to abdominal discomfort, particularly symptoms such as early satiety (feeling full after eating very little), nausea, and occasional abdominal pain, it is crucial to consider various diagnostic approaches, including endoscopy. Your concerns about the possibility of underlying conditions are valid, especially given your history of gastrointestinal issues.

Endoscopy, specifically an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a procedure that allows doctors to visually inspect the upper part of the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). This procedure can be particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, and even tumors that may not be visible through non-invasive imaging techniques like ultrasound or MRI.

Given your symptoms of feeling full quickly, occasional nausea, and a history of significant gastrointestinal discomfort, it is reasonable to consider an endoscopy. Your previous experiences of vomiting and the bitter taste in your mouth could indicate issues such as acid reflux or gastritis, which can lead to discomfort and altered eating patterns. The fact that you have already consulted with a gastroenterologist and had an ultrasound that did not reveal any significant abnormalities suggests that further investigation may be warranted, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen.

In addition to endoscopy, it is also essential to evaluate other potential causes of your symptoms. Conditions such as gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying), functional dyspepsia, or even psychological factors like anxiety can contribute to feelings of fullness and nausea. A thorough assessment by your healthcare provider, including a detailed medical history and possibly additional tests, can help rule out these conditions.

Moreover, lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and medication side effects should also be considered. Sometimes, dietary changes or the introduction of specific medications can alleviate symptoms without the need for invasive procedures. However, if conservative management does not yield results, endoscopy becomes a more attractive option.

In summary, considering your ongoing symptoms and previous gastrointestinal issues, an endoscopy could be a valuable next step in your diagnostic journey. It can provide direct visualization of the upper GI tract and potentially identify any abnormalities that may be contributing to your discomfort. Discussing your concerns with your gastroenterologist will help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with this procedure. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

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