Persistent Stomach Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Q: Persistent Stomach Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Hello： If you are experiencing discomfort in the stomach area, it could be due to gastritis or an ulcer. <br>You may want to evaluate your diet for potential improvements. <br>Avoid or reduce the intake of tea (black tea/green tea/milk tea), coffee, chocolate, sweets, spicy foods

Pressing on the abdomen causes pain, which has persisted for over three months?

Hello, I started seeking Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment in early March this year to address my nasal allergy issues.
During the process, I discovered that pressing on my stomach causes pain.
The treatment concluded in early May, but I still experience pain when I press on my stomach, although it does not hurt if I do not apply pressure.
Since I began working from home in late May, I occasionally experience abdominal pain if I eat too much, so I have been avoiding overeating.
I have also lost about two kilograms in weight.
Additionally, I have had occasional bloating issues after consuming dairy products for a long time.
About two weeks ago, I started to minimize my dairy intake, but I still feel pain when pressing on my stomach.
Doctor, do you recommend that I seek medical attention immediately? If so, which specialty should I consult? Thank you (I am a bit apprehensive about going to the hospital due to the current pandemic situation).

Mr. Hsieh, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/13

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you are experiencing discomfort in the stomach area, it could be due to gastritis or an ulcer.
You may want to evaluate your diet for potential improvements.
Avoid or reduce the intake of tea (black tea/green tea/milk tea), coffee, chocolate, sweets, spicy foods, fried foods, high-fat, and high-protein foods.
If there is no improvement, consider consulting a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2021/06/13

More Info

Persistent stomach pain can be a concerning symptom, and it’s important to approach it with caution. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing discomfort in your stomach area, particularly when pressure is applied, and you have also noted some pain after eating, especially if you overeat. Additionally, you mentioned a history of gastrointestinal issues, including bloating after consuming dairy products, which you have recently tried to avoid.

Given these symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially since the pain persists even without direct pressure. While it’s understandable to have concerns about visiting a hospital during the pandemic, prioritizing your health is crucial. Here are some considerations regarding your situation:
1. Nature of the Pain: Since the pain is localized to the stomach area and is exacerbated by pressure, it could indicate a variety of gastrointestinal issues. These might range from gastritis, ulcers, or even functional gastrointestinal disorders. The fact that you have a history of gastrointestinal problems makes it even more important to get a professional evaluation.

2. Symptoms to Monitor: If you experience any additional symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or blood in your stool, these would be red flags that necessitate immediate medical attention. Even without these symptoms, persistent pain should not be ignored.

3. Consulting the Right Specialist: In your case, it would be best to consult a gastroenterologist. They specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system. A gastroenterologist can perform necessary tests, such as an endoscopy or imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of your pain.

4. Potential Diagnostic Tests: When you visit a gastroenterologist, they may recommend tests such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or endoscopy to visualize the gastrointestinal tract and identify any abnormalities. These tests can help rule out serious conditions like ulcers or tumors.

5. Management of Symptoms: In the meantime, you can manage your symptoms by maintaining a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your stomach. Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and staying hydrated can help alleviate some discomfort. Over-the-counter medications like antacids or proton pump inhibitors may provide temporary relief, but they should not replace professional medical advice.

6. Telemedicine Options: If you are hesitant to visit a healthcare facility in person due to COVID-19 concerns, consider telemedicine options. Many healthcare providers offer virtual consultations, which can be a safe way to discuss your symptoms and receive guidance without the need for an in-person visit.

In summary, while it’s understandable to feel apprehensive about seeking medical care during a pandemic, persistent stomach pain warrants a professional evaluation. Consulting a gastroenterologist is the best course of action to ensure that any underlying issues are properly diagnosed and treated. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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