Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： 1. <br>It may not necessarily be gastroenteritis or peptic ulcers; sometimes it can be due to abnormal peristalsis, which can occur either too fast or too slow, leading to symptoms. <br>Occasionally, the type of diet can contribute, and sometimes emotional stress can be a

Abdominal discomfort?

Hello Doctor, last year around mid-year, I experienced indigestion and bloating, and after undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor mentioned I had mild gastritis and a bit of reflux, but didn’t elaborate further.
I later took traditional Chinese medicine and felt better.
A few months later, I started feeling a slight abdominal pain if I didn’t eat on time over the past couple of days.
Even after eating a bit, I still feel a slight discomfort that resembles hunger pangs.
After eating a typical portion, which is about 70-80% full, I still feel a slight pain around the area just below the navel, along with mild nausea and slight hunger-like pain.
I can tolerate it, but it seems to come and go, and I feel a bit uncomfortable.
Could this be gastritis or a peptic ulcer? (Or could it be constipation blocking my intestines?) Additionally, I occasionally feel gastrointestinal discomfort or indigestion over the past few years, and my health check-ups, including endoscopy and colonoscopy, generally show no family history of issues.
At 40 years old, how often should I get these screenings? Or is it sufficient to get checked only when I feel unwell? Thank you!

Mil, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/16

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
It may not necessarily be gastroenteritis or peptic ulcers; sometimes it can be due to abnormal peristalsis, which can occur either too fast or too slow, leading to symptoms.
Occasionally, the type of diet can contribute, and sometimes emotional stress can be a factor.
If there is no improvement, you may consider consulting a gastroenterologist, as medication can help improve symptoms more quickly.
2.
For routine health screenings, if the upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy show no abnormalities, you can wait to have symptoms before repeating the tests, or you can schedule them again in 3 to 5 years.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/04/16

More Info

Digestive discomfort can be a frustrating and concerning experience, especially when it becomes recurrent. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to several gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, functional dyspepsia, or even early signs of a peptic ulcer. Let’s break down your symptoms and concerns.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Gastritis: Since you mentioned that a previous endoscopy revealed mild gastritis, it is possible that your current symptoms are a continuation of that condition. Gastritis can cause discomfort, especially when the stomach is empty, leading to pain that feels like hunger pangs.
2. Functional Dyspepsia: This is a common condition characterized by chronic or recurrent pain in the upper abdomen without any identifiable organic cause. Symptoms can include bloating, nausea, and a feeling of fullness after eating.

3. Peptic Ulcer Disease: If the pain you are experiencing is localized and persistent, it could be indicative of a peptic ulcer. These ulcers can cause similar symptoms, particularly when the stomach is empty or after eating certain foods.

4. Bowel Issues: You mentioned concerns about constipation. If stool is backing up in the intestines, it can lead to discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen.

When to Seek Help
Given your history of digestive issues and the current symptoms you are experiencing, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if:
- The abdominal pain persists or worsens.

- You experience significant changes in bowel habits (e.g., prolonged constipation or diarrhea).

- You notice any alarming symptoms such as blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent vomiting.

- You experience severe nausea or vomiting that prevents you from keeping food down.

Diagnostic Approach
Your healthcare provider may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as:
- Repeat Endoscopy: If symptoms persist, a repeat endoscopy may be warranted to assess the state of your stomach lining and check for ulcers.

- Ultrasound or CT Scan: These imaging tests can help visualize the organs in your abdomen and identify any structural issues.

- Stool Tests: To rule out infections or other gastrointestinal disorders.

Screening Recommendations
Regarding your question about screening, the general recommendation for individuals without a family history of gastrointestinal diseases is to begin routine screenings at age 50. However, if you have had previous gastrointestinal issues, it may be prudent to have more frequent evaluations. Discussing your personal and family medical history with your healthcare provider can help determine the best screening schedule for you.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms could be related to gastritis or functional dyspepsia, it is essential to monitor your condition closely and seek medical advice if your symptoms do not improve or worsen. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to managing digestive health effectively. Remember, early intervention can often prevent more serious complications down the line.

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