Chronic Stomach Pain and Nausea: Should You Get an Endoscopy?

Stomach pain and nausea?

I have been experiencing stomach pain for a long time.
I have visited several internal medicine clinics, and the doctors diagnosed me with chronic gastritis.
However, I feel like I can hardly eat anything throughout the day; I have no appetite for meals and often feel nauseous.
The stomach pain is a dull ache, and sometimes it hurts when I apply pressure.
Should I consider getting an endoscopy?

iiiiiiiii, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/26

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, based on your symptoms, you should discuss with your physician whether you need to undergo an endoscopy.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2020/02/26

More Info

Chronic stomach pain and nausea can be distressing symptoms that significantly impact your quality of life. Given your history of chronic gastritis and the persistent nature of your symptoms, it is advisable to consider undergoing an endoscopy. An endoscopy, or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), allows a physician to visually examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (duodenum) using a flexible tube with a camera. This procedure can provide valuable insights into the underlying causes of your symptoms.

Chronic gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining, can lead to various complications if left untreated. Symptoms such as persistent stomach pain, nausea, and a feeling of fullness or pressure can indicate that the inflammation is severe or that there may be other underlying issues, such as ulcers or even the presence of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that can exacerbate gastritis and lead to ulcers.
Your description of feeling unable to eat regular meals and experiencing nausea suggests that your condition may be affecting your appetite and overall well-being. These symptoms can also be indicative of more serious conditions, such as peptic ulcers or even gastric cancer, particularly if there are changes in your symptoms or if they worsen over time.
An endoscopy can help rule out these serious conditions. During the procedure, the doctor can take biopsies of any suspicious areas, which can be crucial for diagnosing conditions like gastric cancer or confirming the presence of H. pylori. Additionally, if there are any ulcers present, the doctor can assess their size and severity, which can guide treatment options.

Moreover, endoscopy is not only diagnostic but can also be therapeutic. For instance, if ulcers are found, the physician can provide immediate treatment options, such as cauterization or other interventions to promote healing.
In your case, given the chronic nature of your symptoms and the potential for complications associated with untreated gastritis, it is prudent to discuss the option of an endoscopy with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your medical history and determine the best course of action.
In summary, while chronic gastritis can often be managed with medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and lifestyle modifications, the persistence of your symptoms, particularly the nausea and inability to eat, warrants further investigation through an endoscopy. This procedure can provide clarity on your condition and help tailor an effective treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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