Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

What disease is it?

Hello Doctor: I have a friend who often feels discomfort in her abdomen and experiences nausea both before and after meals, along with diarrhea that is watery in consistency.
She has undergone imaging studies, and the doctor noted a hazy area in her stomach that appears to be inflamed or ulcerated.
She is currently in good spirits, is 17 years old, 172 cm tall, and weighs 52.5 kg.
What could this condition be? THANK YOU!!!

Y, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/05/15

Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Your condition may be Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which has three main characteristics: 1.
The symptoms recur frequently.
2.
All examinations have been conducted, but they show normal results.
3.
Consulting multiple physicians does not lead to improvement.
This condition is primarily due to individual constitution, with the main pathogenic factor being abnormal gastrointestinal motility; therefore, the scheduled gastroscopy and colonoscopy cannot identify the cause.
It is recommended that you try to relax, consume more yogurt, avoid spicy foods, and consult a gastroenterologist.

Reply Date: 2001/05/15

More Info

Abdominal discomfort can stem from a variety of causes, and understanding these potential issues is crucial for effective management. Your friend's symptoms, which include a constant feeling of discomfort in the abdomen, nausea before and after meals, and diarrhea, suggest a gastrointestinal issue that may require further investigation.

Given that the imaging results indicated a "hazy" area in the stomach, which may suggest inflammation or ulceration, it is essential to consider conditions such as gastritis or peptic ulcers. Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, chronic stress, certain medications (like NSAIDs), or infections (most notably Helicobacter pylori). Symptoms often include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits, which align with what your friend is experiencing.

Peptic ulcers, on the other hand, are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). They can also be caused by H. pylori infection or prolonged use of NSAIDs. Symptoms typically include burning stomach pain, bloating, and, in some cases, changes in appetite or weight. The presence of nausea and diarrhea could indicate that the ulcer is affecting the digestive process, leading to these symptoms.

In addition to these conditions, it is also important to consider other gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate IBS symptoms, and given that your friend is 17 years old, the psychological aspect should not be overlooked. Adolescents often experience stress related to school, social life, and other factors, which can manifest physically as gastrointestinal discomfort.

Given the complexity of gastrointestinal issues, it is advisable for your friend to follow up with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation. This may include further diagnostic tests such as an endoscopy to directly visualize the stomach lining and obtain biopsies if necessary. Blood tests may also be warranted to check for H. pylori infection or other underlying conditions.

In the meantime, lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms. These include:
1. Dietary Changes: Avoiding spicy, fatty, or acidic foods can help reduce irritation in the stomach. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals may also alleviate discomfort.

2. Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake is essential, especially if diarrhea is present. Electrolyte solutions may be beneficial if dehydration occurs.

3. Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or counseling can help manage stress levels, which may, in turn, alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms.

4. Medications: Over-the-counter antacids or medications that reduce stomach acid (like proton pump inhibitors) may provide symptomatic relief, but these should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while your friend's symptoms may suggest gastritis or peptic ulcers, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve quality of life.

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