Stomach Pain: Insights from Gastroenterology Experts

Q: Stomach Pain: Insights from Gastroenterology Experts

Hello： The duration of medication should be determined based on the severity and cause of stomach pain. <br>In some cases of ulcers, patients may no longer experience pain once they start medication, but it is necessary to continue treatment for a certain period until the ulcer h

Stomach pain issues?

Hello Doctor: Regarding the sharp pain in my abdomen that I mentioned last time, I have seen a gastroenterologist twice since then.
Following the prescribed medication has indeed been helpful, but I still experience the following issues, which I do not understand: 1.
If I do not eat a late-night snack, I feel extremely uncomfortable the next morning! 2.
Occasional coughing? (I smoke, but it doesn't seem to be related to smoking.) Since the medication prescribed by the doctor has been helpful and the pain is not unbearable, I would like to ask: If I am only experiencing gastric discomfort and the medication has been beneficial, and I have at least a month's supply of these medications left from previous purchases, should I take the medication for another week and then stop to see how I feel, or should I continue taking the month’s supply I currently have (since the medications prescribed during both visits are the same)? Thank you for your response.

Zhuang Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/05/28

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: The duration of medication should be determined based on the severity and cause of stomach pain.
In some cases of ulcers, patients may no longer experience pain once they start medication, but it is necessary to continue treatment for a certain period until the ulcer heals.
Conversely, if it is merely mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), medication can be taken as needed during discomfort, and can be discontinued once symptoms improve.
However, lifestyle changes are essential to prevent the recurrence of GERD.
Therefore, your concerns may vary depending on the condition.
Generally, if you have GERD, it is not recommended to eat late-night snacks, as lying flat can cause stomach contents to easily reflux into the esophagus.
Some patients with duodenal ulcers may experience pain that wakes them up at night.
There are many causes of chronic cough, and a small portion of individuals may have it due to gastroesophageal reflux.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2015/05/28

More Info

Understanding stomach pain can be quite complex, especially when it involves conditions like peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other gastrointestinal disorders. Based on the information provided, it appears that you have been experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort, which has led you to seek medical advice multiple times. Here’s a comprehensive overview of your situation and some insights into the management of stomach pain.

Firstly, it is important to understand that stomach pain can arise from various causes, including ulcers, gastritis, and even issues related to the esophagus or gallbladder. The fact that you have been prescribed medication, which has provided some relief, suggests that your physician suspects a condition that is responsive to such treatments, likely involving excess stomach acid or inflammation of the gastric lining.

1. Morning Discomfort: You mentioned experiencing extreme discomfort in the morning if you skip a late-night snack. This could be related to the way stomach acid production works. When the stomach is empty for an extended period, acid can accumulate, leading to irritation of the gastric lining, which may result in pain or discomfort. Eating a small, bland snack before bed might help buffer the acid and reduce morning discomfort.

2. Coughing: The occasional cough you experience could be linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In GERD, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation that may trigger a cough. Additionally, smoking can exacerbate GERD symptoms and contribute to chronic cough. If you are a smoker, consider discussing smoking cessation strategies with your healthcare provider, as quitting can significantly improve your gastrointestinal health and overall well-being.

3. Medication Management: You mentioned having a supply of medication that you have been taking for nearly a month. It’s crucial to follow your physician's advice regarding medication use. If your doctor prescribed a two-week course, it’s generally advisable to complete that course unless directed otherwise. Stopping medication prematurely can lead to a resurgence of symptoms. If you feel that the medication is helping, it may be beneficial to continue taking it as prescribed. However, if you experience side effects or if symptoms persist, it’s essential to return to your physician for further evaluation.

4. Follow-Up Care: Since your symptoms have not completely resolved, it’s important to keep your follow-up appointments with your gastroenterologist. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as an endoscopy, to assess the condition of your stomach lining and rule out any serious underlying issues. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are key to managing chronic gastrointestinal symptoms effectively.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Consider adopting a diet that avoids spicy, acidic, or fatty foods, which can irritate the stomach. Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals can also help manage symptoms. Additionally, avoiding lying down immediately after eating and elevating the head of your bed can reduce nighttime symptoms related to acid reflux.

In conclusion, while your current medication regimen seems to provide some relief, ongoing symptoms warrant further investigation and possibly a reevaluation of your treatment plan. Open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, medication use, and lifestyle factors will be crucial in managing your condition effectively. Remember, self-medication or altering prescribed treatment without consulting your doctor can lead to complications, so it’s best to seek professional guidance.

Similar Q&A

Chronic Abdominal Pain: Finding the Right Specialist for Diagnosis

Hello Doctor, I am inquiring on behalf of a 30-year-old female friend. She has been experiencing abdominal pain for over two months. Initially, she underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in the gastroenterology department, which was normal. Later, she had a urinary tract i...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
In a major hospital's gastroenterology department, with careful follow-up appointments, adherence to medical orders, and dietary compliance, a reassuring answer should be attainable.

Understanding Abdominal Pain: Insights into Gastrointestinal Issues

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing pain in the upper right quadrant of my abdomen for the past six months. I underwent an ultrasound which revealed fatty liver and gallbladder polyps, and an endoscopy indicated mild gastritis. A few weeks later, I suddenly developed difficult...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, your comprehensive examinations are sufficient to diagnose diseases of all abdominal organs. However, functional issues such as abnormal peristalsis, irritable bowel syndrome; metabolic disorders (such as thyroid dysfunction, blood sugar abnormalities; or rarer conditions ...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Stomach Pain and Treatment

Hello Doctor: At the beginning of September this year, I visited a clinic due to feeling unwell. The doctor diagnosed me with heat exhaustion. The next day, after taking the medication, I experienced severe stomach pain in the afternoon. I returned to the clinic, and they diagnos...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir. Serious illnesses should have been ruled out; you only have irritable bowel syndrome. With dietary adjustments and medication, you should be fine. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian

Understanding Abdominal Pain: Which Specialist to Consult?

Doctor, I'm not sure which organ is causing my issues—whether it's my gastrointestinal system, liver, gallbladder, kidneys, or pancreas. I have sharp pain in the upper left abdomen, and I still feel very hungry shortly after eating. My stomach feels bloated both above a...

Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine
Based on your description, peptic ulcer disease or irritable bowel syndrome cannot be ruled out. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for examination and treatment.