Stomach Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Stomach Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello： For some individuals, bowel function may temporarily change after surgery, which can be adjusted through lifestyle and dietary habits. <br>If there is no significant weight gain or loss, there is generally no need for excessive concern. <br>However, if the situation does n

Stomach discomfort?

I have been feeling a bit uncomfortable in my upper abdomen for the past few days, and I'm not sure if it's related to the left-sided hernia surgery I had at the end of February.
Recently, I haven't felt unwell, but I do experience some abdominal bloating after eating, and I'm unsure if it's just psychological.
My abdomen feels somewhat distended, and I weigh only 60 kilograms.
Is this normal weight gain, or could it be indicative of a medical condition? If I wait until the discomfort becomes more pronounced before seeing a doctor or getting an endoscopy, will it be too late? (For example, in cases of advanced stomach cancer, as I've read that it is often diagnosed at a late stage.)

danxin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/19

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: For some individuals, bowel function may temporarily change after surgery, which can be adjusted through lifestyle and dietary habits.
If there is no significant weight gain or loss, there is generally no need for excessive concern.
However, if the situation does not improve, it is advisable to have an evaluation by a gastroenterologist to determine the necessity of an endoscopy.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2020/06/19

More Info

When it comes to stomach discomfort, it is essential to understand the various factors that can contribute to these sensations and when it is appropriate to seek medical attention. Your concerns about feeling a sense of heaviness or discomfort in your stomach, especially following a recent surgery for a left-sided hernia, are valid. It is not uncommon for individuals to experience gastrointestinal symptoms after surgical procedures, as the body adjusts and heals.

Stomach discomfort can arise from a multitude of causes, including but not limited to dietary choices, stress, anxiety, and underlying medical conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, or even more serious conditions like cancer. Given your recent surgery, it is possible that your symptoms could be related to post-operative changes, such as altered digestion or inflammation. However, it is crucial to differentiate between normal post-operative discomfort and symptoms that may indicate a more serious issue.

In general, if you experience persistent or worsening symptoms such as significant abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or gastrointestinal bleeding, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Waiting until symptoms become severe can indeed lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, particularly for serious conditions like stomach cancer, which can be asymptomatic in its early stages.

Regarding your concerns about whether your weight is normal or indicative of a health issue, it is important to consider not just weight alone but also body composition and overall health. A weight of 60 kg may be normal for some individuals, but if you feel that your abdomen appears distended or if you are experiencing discomfort, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider. They can assess your body mass index (BMI), dietary habits, and any other relevant factors to determine if further investigation is necessary.

If you are contemplating whether to wait until your discomfort worsens before seeking medical advice, it is generally better to err on the side of caution. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, especially in cases where serious conditions are involved. If you are feeling uncertain about the need for a gastroscopy (endoscopy), it is worth noting that while this procedure can be uncomfortable, it is a valuable diagnostic tool that allows physicians to visualize the interior of the stomach and potentially identify any abnormalities.

There are alternative non-invasive tests, such as an upper gastrointestinal series (barium swallow), which can provide some insights but may not be as definitive as an endoscopy. However, if your doctor recommends an endoscopy based on your symptoms, it is likely because they believe it is necessary to rule out serious conditions.

In summary, if you are experiencing ongoing stomach discomfort, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional sooner rather than later. They can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend appropriate tests, and help you understand the underlying causes of your symptoms. Remember, it is always better to address health concerns early to ensure the best possible outcomes.

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