Digestive Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Digestive Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions

Hello： 1. Whether or not you have eaten, you may feel bubbling sounds in your stomach and intestines, along with occasional sensations of peristalsis. This likely indicates a combination of increased intestinal motility and bloating. 2. Your appetite has n

I've been feeling strange in my abdomen lately?

About a month ago, I started to notice that my appetite was smaller than before; often, I couldn't eat as much as I used to without feeling overly full and a bit nauseous.
Additionally, I would feel full for a long time after meals, sometimes even until the next day.
I lost about 3 kilograms in 2 to 3 weeks.
I then went to see a doctor, but since I was just shy of 18, I could only see a pediatrician.
The doctor conducted a general consultation and ordered blood tests.
When I returned for a follow-up, the doctor said the blood tests showed no significant issues.
I suspected that my irregular eating habits due to online classes might be the cause.
Between my first visit and the follow-up, I managed to eat three regular meals a day for a week.
Initially, it was quite difficult, but it seemed to improve somewhat.
However, a few days after the follow-up, I started experiencing some issues again.
Currently, my symptoms include:
1.
Regardless of whether I eat, I often hear bubbling sounds in my stomach and intestines, and sometimes I feel a sensation of peristalsis (this started when I first felt something was wrong).
2.
My appetite has not returned to what it used to be (although I no longer feel extremely full and nauseous after eating).
3.
When lying on the ground, I sometimes feel a bloated sensation in my stomach, as if there is air, but sometimes this feeling is absent.
4.
I burp and pass gas more frequently than before.
5.
In the past few days, I sometimes feel the urge to have a bowel movement and abdominal pain halfway through a meal, which prevents me from continuing to eat.
Sometimes, after I do have a bowel movement, I feel better (the stool can be formed but soft, or sometimes it is mushy, with a fairly normal color).
If I don't have a bowel movement, I might feel very bloated until I eat again and then relieve myself.
However, sometimes I don't experience this issue after meals (but I used to be constipated, going every 4 to 8 days).
Additionally, I've noticed that for at least several months, my upper abdomen, from the ribs to the navel, has been more protruded than my lower abdomen.
It is quite noticeable from above and can also be seen from the side (though not excessively pronounced), and the upper right abdomen is slightly more protruded than the left.
When lying flat, my stomach appears quite flat, but if I bend over without exerting myself, the upper abdomen feels soft to the touch.
I don't think there is an issue with pelvic tilt, but I do consider myself somewhat hunched and rounded-shouldered.
I often lie down or recline while reading (not sure if this has an impact).
My sleep usually falls between 1 or 2 AM and 8 AM, but sometimes I continue to sleep after breakfast.
My mood has been quite poor; I often worry about whether there are issues with my body and feel somewhat anxious.
I would like to know what might be wrong with my gastrointestinal system.
Over the past month, I've experienced a lack of appetite, belching, abdominal sounds, and occasional diarrhea, and I have no idea what to do or if there is a significant problem.
The protrusion of my upper abdomen has been an issue for about a year, but I don't know if it is related to my recent symptoms.
I am quite fearful that it could be a serious issue, but after seeing the pediatrician, I felt that the doctor thought I was just exercising and getting less sunlight lately.
Therefore, I would like to ask for the doctor's opinion and how to improve my situation.
Thank you.

Lurén, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/24

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello:
1.
Whether or not you have eaten, you may feel bubbling sounds in your stomach and intestines, along with occasional sensations of peristalsis.
This likely indicates a combination of increased intestinal motility and bloating.

2.
Your appetite has not returned to what it used to be.
This could be due to stress; reduced physical activity from not being able to go out leads to decreased calorie expenditure, which in turn can decrease appetite.

3.
Lying on the floor sometimes causes a feeling of fullness in the stomach area.
It is advisable to avoid putting pressure on the abdomen.

4/5.
If you have excessive intestinal gas or fecal impaction, it may be beneficial to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, engage in more physical activity, or take probiotics, all of which can help improve your symptoms.
If you are of a lean body type, it is possible to feel the pulsation of the abdominal aorta, which is generally not a cause for concern.

Additionally, your sleep schedule seems to be from around 1 or 2 AM to 8 AM.
Adjusting it to a more regular schedule, such as from 11 PM to 6 AM, may be beneficial.
Even though you cannot go out to school, try to find activities to do in the morning instead of just sleeping.
The disruption of your circadian rhythm due to the pandemic can certainly affect physiological functions, so it’s important to adapt as best as you can.
We hope for a stabilization of the pandemic so that normal life can resume soon.
If your issues persist without improvement, it is recommended to follow up with your physician for further discussion and treatment.

Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Dr.
Tsai An-shun

Reply Date: 2021/07/24

More Info

Understanding digestive issues can be quite complex, especially when symptoms are varied and persistent. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including decreased appetite, feelings of fullness, abdominal discomfort, increased gas, and changes in bowel habits. Let’s break down these symptoms, potential causes, and possible solutions.

Symptoms Overview
1. Decreased Appetite: A reduced desire to eat can stem from various factors, including stress, anxiety, or changes in routine, such as your shift to remote learning. This can lead to a cycle where not eating enough exacerbates feelings of nausea and fullness.

2. Abdominal Sounds and Sensations: The bubbling or gurgling sounds in your stomach, along with the sensation of movement, are often normal digestive processes. However, if they are accompanied by discomfort, it could indicate issues like gas buildup or gastrointestinal motility problems.

3. Bloating and Distension: The feeling of pressure or fullness in your abdomen, especially after eating, can be a sign of bloating. This can occur due to dietary choices, such as consuming high-fiber foods suddenly or eating too quickly.

4. Bowel Movement Changes: The irregularity in your bowel habits, including periods of constipation followed by softer stools, can suggest a functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The urgency to defecate after meals can also be a symptom of IBS.

5. Visible Pulsations in the Abdomen: This can be normal, especially if you are thin, as the abdominal aorta can be more prominent. However, if it is accompanied by pain or discomfort, it should be evaluated further.

Potential Causes
1. Dietary Changes: Your mention of irregular meal patterns and possibly inadequate nutrition could lead to digestive disturbances. A lack of regular meals can affect your gut health and lead to symptoms like bloating and gas.

2. Stress and Anxiety: Emotional factors can significantly impact digestion. Anxiety can lead to increased gastrointestinal motility, causing symptoms like diarrhea or urgency.
3. Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle, especially if you are spending long hours studying or working from home, can contribute to digestive issues. Regular movement helps stimulate digestion and can alleviate symptoms.

4. Posture: Your mention of slouching or lying down while studying could affect digestion. Poor posture can compress the abdomen and lead to discomfort.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Regular Eating Schedule: Try to establish a consistent meal routine. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help manage feelings of fullness and nausea.

2. Mindful Eating: Pay attention to how you eat. Avoid distractions while eating, chew your food thoroughly, and take your time. This can help reduce bloating and discomfort.

3. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration is essential for digestion and can help prevent constipation.

4. Physical Activity: Incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Even light activities like walking can promote digestive health and reduce stress.

5. Stress Management: Consider techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to help manage anxiety. These practices can improve your overall well-being and may alleviate some digestive symptoms.

6. Consult a Specialist: Since your symptoms have persisted, it may be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist. They can provide a more thorough evaluation, including possible imaging studies or endoscopy if necessary.

7. Dietary Adjustments: Keep a food diary to identify any specific foods that may trigger your symptoms. You might want to consider a low-FODMAP diet temporarily, which can help identify food intolerances.

8. Sleep Hygiene: Aim for a consistent sleep schedule. Poor sleep can exacerbate stress and digestive issues, so try to establish a calming bedtime routine.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may be concerning, many digestive issues can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes and proper medical guidance. It’s essential to listen to your body and seek help when needed. If your symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to follow up with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and tailored treatment. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as addressing physical symptoms, as they are often interconnected.

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