Symptoms: Abdominal Pain, Dizziness, and Blurred Vision

Stomach pain, dizziness, and blurred vision?

Hello, doctor.
This morning while I was in the car, I suddenly experienced severe stomach pain and started sweating profusely.
I also had symptoms of diarrhea, dizziness, and blurred vision.
After urgently getting out of the car and sitting down for about 3-5 minutes, I returned to normal.
This has happened 3 or 4 times over the past few years, but the frequency is not high.
When I was in kindergarten and elementary school, I often experienced stomach pain with cold sweats and felt cold all over, which would last about 10-15 minutes.
I had to wrap myself in a thick blanket, but I still kept shivering.
However, this has occurred much less frequently as I grew older.
I am 15 years old, and there is a family history of thalassemia in the females.
I would like to ask the doctor: what could these symptoms indicate? Which department should I consult? Thank you for your patience in reading and answering my questions.

Sheena, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/24

Dr. Xu Peiqi reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
Sheena,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Your description is quite detailed, and it currently sounds like the most likely diagnosis is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Since the episodes are infrequent and have persisted for many years without developing into a more serious condition, it is unlikely to be a severe or potentially life-threatening illness.
I recommend that you consider adjusting your lifestyle and managing emotional stress, as this may help reduce both the frequency and severity of the episodes.

If the symptoms become more frequent and impact your daily life, please seek consultation at a nearby internal medicine clinic or hospital.
Additionally, this symptom is likely unrelated to anemia; however, given that there is a family history of Mediterranean anemia, you may have a higher chance of having it as well.
I suggest scheduling a blood test to assess your health status.
Thank you for your question.
Wishing you health and well-being.

Reply Date: 2018/10/24

More Info

Based on your description of symptoms, including sudden abdominal pain, cold sweats, dizziness, and blurred vision, it is essential to consider several potential underlying causes. Your history of similar episodes in childhood, along with the family history of Mediterranean anemia, adds complexity to your situation.
Firstly, the acute abdominal pain you experienced could be related to various gastrointestinal issues. Common causes of sudden abdominal pain include gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even gallbladder-related issues, especially if the pain is located in the upper abdomen. The cold sweats and dizziness you experienced could indicate a vasovagal response, which is a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, often triggered by pain, stress, or dehydration. This response can lead to fainting or near-fainting sensations, which might explain your symptoms of dizziness and blurred vision.

Given your age and the recurrent nature of these episodes, it is also important to consider functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS can cause abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and associated symptoms like nausea and dizziness. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these symptoms, especially in adolescents.
Additionally, your family history of Mediterranean anemia raises the possibility of a hematological issue. While Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) primarily affects red blood cell production, it can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and sometimes abdominal discomfort due to splenomegaly or other complications. However, the acute nature of your symptoms seems more aligned with gastrointestinal issues rather than a direct consequence of anemia.

To address your concerns, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. Given your symptoms, starting with a visit to a pediatrician or a family medicine physician would be appropriate. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests, to rule out any serious conditions. If gastrointestinal issues are suspected, they may refer you to a gastroenterologist for further assessment.

In the meantime, keeping a symptom diary could be beneficial. Documenting when these episodes occur, their duration, associated activities, and any dietary factors may help your healthcare provider identify patterns and triggers. Additionally, managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling may also be beneficial, especially if anxiety is a contributing factor to your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms could be indicative of various conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders or a vasovagal response, it is crucial to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can help manage your symptoms effectively and improve your overall well-being.

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