Abdominal Pain and Nausea: When to Resume Normal Eating

Nausea, stomach pain?

Hello, Doctor: On Wednesday afternoon, after drinking a cup of kumquat lemon beverage, I started to feel a dull pain in my lower abdomen but did not have a bowel movement.
That evening, I accidentally ate some pork that was sticky with lard (cold), and then took a fish oil capsule, which made me feel nauseous.
The next day (Thursday), due to a busy work schedule, I did not seek medical attention.
In the morning, I began to feel cold all over and broke out in cold sweats, which only eased by noon, but I still had pain in my upper abdomen.
I did not feel hungry, nor did I experience vomiting or diarrhea, just some belching, and I passed some stool.
That day, I ate an apple and two pieces of crackers.
By Friday, I felt somewhat better, with reduced pain, but I still felt tired and lacked energy.
My diet remained similar.
On Saturday, I felt less fatigued, but there was still some abdominal pain, and I felt dizzy after walking for a longer time.
I would like to ask the doctor… in this situation, when can I return to a normal diet? What foods would be better for me? Thank you.

Kabi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/05

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Please seek medical attention for blood tests and/or ultrasound examination.
Maintain a light diet, low in oil, until symptoms improve.

Reply Date: 2023/08/05

More Info

When experiencing abdominal pain and nausea, especially after consuming certain foods, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution and awareness of your body's signals. Based on your description, it seems you have had a series of gastrointestinal disturbances that began after consuming a drink and certain foods, which may have led to discomfort and nausea.

Initially, it is important to recognize that abdominal pain can stem from various causes, including dietary indiscretions, food intolerances, or even infections. The symptoms you described, such as abdominal pain, nausea, and a lack of appetite, suggest that your digestive system may be reacting negatively to what you consumed. The fact that you experienced cold sweats and a general feeling of malaise indicates that your body was under some stress, possibly due to an inflammatory response or irritation in the gastrointestinal tract.

In terms of when to resume normal eating, it is generally advisable to wait until you feel more stable and your symptoms have significantly improved. Here are some guidelines to consider:
1. Listen to Your Body: If you still feel discomfort or nausea, it is best to stick to a bland diet. Foods that are easy to digest, such as plain rice, bananas, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet), can be beneficial. These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help settle your digestive system.

2. Hydration is Key: Ensure you are staying hydrated, especially if you have experienced any vomiting or diarrhea. Clear fluids like water, broth, or herbal teas can help maintain hydration without putting additional strain on your stomach.

3. Gradual Reintroduction of Foods: Once you start feeling better, gradually reintroduce other foods. Start with bland, low-fat options and avoid spicy, greasy, or highly acidic foods until you are sure your stomach can handle them. Foods like boiled potatoes, steamed vegetables, and lean proteins (like chicken or fish) can be good choices.

4. Avoid Trigger Foods: Pay attention to any foods that seem to exacerbate your symptoms. For instance, fatty foods, dairy products, and caffeine can sometimes irritate the stomach and should be avoided until you are fully recovered.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you notice that certain foods consistently trigger discomfort, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out food intolerances or allergies.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend tests to rule out any underlying conditions, such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gallbladder issues.

In summary, while it is important to resume normal eating, doing so should be approached gradually and with mindfulness of your body's responses. Start with bland foods and clear fluids, and avoid any known irritants until you feel fully recovered. If symptoms persist, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance. Your health and comfort should always be the priority.

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