Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Pain and Numbness

There is numbness, bloating, and a slight tingling sensation in the abdomen?

In the past two months, I have been experiencing some discomfort in my abdomen.
Initially, it occurred about once a week, but since I had spinal surgery previously, I usually rest for a while after dinner or do some exercise before lying down.
At first, I noticed that after lying down for a long time, when I got up, I felt a tingling or bloating sensation in my left abdomen (approximately below the left rib cage and slightly above the navel), which was an indescribable discomfort.
Gradually, the frequency increased from once a week to almost daily, and I began to feel discomfort after lunch as well, which I hadn't experienced before.
The sensations evolved from vague discomfort to more distinct feelings, sometimes tingling, sometimes a slight stabbing pain, and sometimes a bloated feeling.

Initially, the discomfort was mostly localized to the left abdomen, but it has now spread to the middle of the abdomen (around the midpoint between the most protruding parts of the ribs) and the right abdomen (approximately the opposite position of the left abdomen), although most of the discomfort is still concentrated in the left abdomen.
Sometimes, the discomfort is not limited to after meals; I can feel it a while after eating or even before meals (for example, after finishing breakfast around 9:15 AM, I feel discomfort before noon).
I have visited a gastroenterology clinic twice, where the initial suspicion was a gastric issue.
I have taken the medication prescribed by the doctor, but I haven't noticed any significant improvement.
Additionally, in the past two days, I have started to feel occasional shortness of breath or a tightening and slight pain in the chest area while lying in bed at night.

I typically do not drink sugary beverages, but I do have black coffee or unsweetened red/green tea daily.
I usually drink about 3.5 cups of latte in the afternoon each week, but since visiting the clinic, I have stopped drinking it, and there has been no improvement.
What could be the possible causes, and what recommendations do you have?

Pan Ye, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/25

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

If the stomach/ultrasound examination shows no abnormalities, consider referring to a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2024/01/25

More Info

Abdominal discomfort can be a complex issue, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, pain, and changes in sensation. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing a range of symptoms over the past two months, which have progressively worsened. Given your history of spinal surgery and the nature of your symptoms, there are several potential causes to consider.

Firstly, the location of your discomfort—primarily in the left upper quadrant of your abdomen—could suggest several gastrointestinal issues. Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even issues related to the spleen could manifest as pain or discomfort in this area. Since you mentioned that you have seen a gastroenterologist and have been treated for potential gastric problems without significant improvement, it may be worthwhile to explore other gastrointestinal conditions, such as functional dyspepsia or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). These conditions can cause a variety of symptoms, including bloating, pain, and changes in bowel habits, and they can sometimes be exacerbated by stress or anxiety.

Your mention of numbness and a tingling sensation could also indicate a neurological component. Given your history of spinal surgery, it is possible that there may be nerve involvement, particularly if there is any residual compression or irritation of the nerves that innervate the abdominal region. Conditions such as neuropathy or referred pain from spinal issues could lead to sensations of numbness or discomfort in the abdomen. It might be beneficial to consult with a neurologist or a pain specialist who can evaluate whether your symptoms could be related to nerve issues stemming from your spinal condition.

Additionally, the fact that you are experiencing discomfort after meals and sometimes even before eating suggests that your symptoms may be related to your digestive process. It is important to consider dietary factors, as certain foods and beverages can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. While you have mentioned cutting out caffeinated beverages, it may be helpful to keep a food diary to identify any potential triggers. Foods that are high in fat, spicy, or acidic can often lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals.

The symptoms you described, such as difficulty breathing and a sensation of tightness in the chest, are concerning and warrant immediate medical attention. These could indicate a more serious condition, such as a cardiac issue or anxiety-related symptoms. It is crucial to rule out any cardiovascular problems, especially if you are experiencing chest pain or tightness. I recommend seeking an evaluation from a healthcare provider who can perform a thorough assessment, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) and possibly other cardiac tests, to ensure that your heart is functioning properly.

In summary, your abdominal discomfort could stem from a combination of gastrointestinal and neurological issues, potentially exacerbated by stress or anxiety. It is essential to continue working with your healthcare providers to explore these possibilities. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking a second opinion or consulting specialists in gastroenterology and neurology. Additionally, addressing any potential anxiety or stress through counseling or relaxation techniques may also help alleviate some of your symptoms. Remember, it is important to advocate for your health and ensure that all potential causes are thoroughly investigated.

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