Nausea Without Fever: Gastrointestinal Issues - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Hello! It sounds like you’re experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, decreased appetite, and some episodes of diarrhea, along with a sensation of acid reflux. Given that you do not have a fever and your blood and urine tests returned normal results (aside from elevated uric acid), it’s understandable to feel concerned about what might be going on.

Based on your symptoms, it’s possible that you could be dealing with a few different issues. The absence of fever and severe abdominal pain makes acute infections like gastroenteritis less likely, but it doesn’t rule out other gastrointestinal disorders. Here are some possibilities to consider:
1. Gastritis or Acid Reflux: You mentioned experiencing a sensation of heat in your stomach and occasional sour taste in your mouth, which could indicate gastritis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Both conditions can lead to nausea and reduced appetite. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by various factors including stress, certain medications (like NSAIDs), or dietary habits.

2. Functional Dyspepsia: This is a common condition characterized by chronic or recurrent discomfort in the upper abdomen without any identifiable cause. Symptoms can include nausea, bloating, and early satiety (feeling full after eating only a small amount). It can be triggered by stress, dietary choices, or even hormonal changes.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Although you mentioned that your diarrhea was brief, IBS can present with alternating symptoms of diarrhea and constipation, along with nausea and discomfort. Stress and dietary factors often exacerbate IBS symptoms.

4. Food Intolerance or Sensitivity: Sometimes, specific foods can trigger gastrointestinal distress, leading to symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. Keeping a food diary can help identify any potential triggers.

5. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can significantly impact gastrointestinal function, leading to symptoms like nausea and appetite changes. If you’ve been under stress, it might be worth considering this as a contributing factor.

Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to follow up with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend further tests, such as an upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) to visualize the stomach and esophagus, or tests for H. pylori, a bacterium that can cause gastritis and ulcers.
In the meantime, here are some general recommendations that may help alleviate your symptoms:
- Dietary Adjustments: Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones. Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods that might exacerbate your symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify any specific foods that trigger your nausea.

- Stay Hydrated: Since you experienced some diarrhea, ensure you’re drinking enough fluids to stay hydrated. Electrolyte solutions can be beneficial if you’re losing fluids.

- Manage Stress: Consider stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or gentle exercise, which can help improve your overall well-being and potentially alleviate some gastrointestinal symptoms.

- Medications: If you haven’t already, discuss with your doctor the possibility of trying medications that reduce stomach acid or help with nausea.

In summary, while your symptoms may not point directly to a specific diagnosis like gastroenteritis, they warrant further investigation to rule out other gastrointestinal disorders. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any changes you experience. Wishing you a speedy recovery!