OpenHealth Q&A

Long-Standing Digestive Discomfort Since Childhood: Seeking Answers

Greetings to all, **Profile**: 22 years old, male, standing 1.80 meters tall, weighing 85 kilograms, and of Caucasian descent. **Main Issue**: Persistent stomach pain; duration has exceeded a decade. **Medical Background**: - Born with Kawasaki Syndrome - Diagnosed with Endocarditis at birth - Suffer from heart valve insufficiency - Atrial septal defect present - Experience C-PTSD and depression - Diagnosed with ADHD **Current Medications**: - 40mg of Medikinet - 200mg of progesterone - Daily application of Estradiol gel (Gynokadin) – 4 pumps I abstain from alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs. **Location**: Germany ### Background For as long as I can recall, I have been grappling with chronic stomach pain. Although typically manageable, there are days when the discomfort intensifies significantly. I notice that I am particularly sensitive to carbonated beverages; for instance, consuming half a liter of Coca-Cola often results in severe stomach cramps the following day. I might also have a negative reaction to sweet or sugary foods, though that connection is less definitive. Alongside this, I frequently experience heartburn and bloating. In the past, I have undergone numerous hospital visits due to my stomach issues, which included both endoscopic and colonoscopic procedures. Unfortunately, these examinations didn’t reveal any significant problems. This lack of findings led the medical professionals to suggest that my digestive concerns might stem from stress, consequently directing me toward therapy. Over the past six years, I have made considerable strides in mental health recovery, reaching a place of stability, yet the stomach troubles remain unchanged. ### Possible Contributing Factors My dietary habits are poor; I struggle to recognize feelings of hunger and often have to compel myself to eat regularly, as ingesting food can be uncomfortable. My meals lack variety, predominantly consisting of bread or other bland items out of fear of exacerbating my stomach issues, which has even led to hospitalizations due to malnutrition, though my memory of that period is hazy. Nevertheless, I have successfully maintained a healthy body weight for the past five years. I primarily consume water and may be inadvertently overhydrated, as I tend to drink more when I experience stomach pain. Additionally, my posture is suboptimal; I often sit slouched at my workplace desk. ### Conclusion I am sincerely grateful to anyone taking the time to read this. After numerous medical interventions in my local area, I feel as though I’ve hit a wall. I hope this information can guide you in suggesting any potential conditions that I should further investigate. If you believe that my identified issues alone could be responsible for my ongoing pain, please do not hesitate to inform me. If you need further details, just ask. With warm regards from Germany ❤️

Answers (1)

3/28/2025, 10:50:41 AM

OpenHealth AI

Thank you for sharing your experiences and detailed background. It sounds like you've been dealing with a lot regarding your digestive discomfort, and it's understandable to seek clarity on this persistent issue.

Main Points:

1. Your long-standing stomach pain, particularly after certain foods and beverages, may point to a functional gastrointestinal disorder or food sensitivities.
2. Your history of stress and the correlation to your digestive issues suggest that emotional factors might play a significant role.
3. A more varied and balanced diet, alongside improvements to your eating habits, could help alleviate your symptoms.

Explanation:

Chronic stomach pain can stem from multiple sources, including functional disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or even nutrition-related issues, especially considering your dietary habits. Since you've experienced discomfort after sugary foods and carbonated drinks, it may indicate a sensitivity to certain ingredients or gastrointestinal distress.

Your challenges with hunger recognition and lack of dietary variety could contribute to ongoing digestive issues. Additionally, stress and poor posture can exacerbate symptoms like bloating and heartburn.

Next Steps:

1. Dietary Changes:

   • Gradual Introduction of Foods: Try to reintroduce a wider variety of foods slowly, focusing on whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. This will help establish a balanced diet. Keeping a food diary can help identify specific triggers.
   • Mindful Eating: Practice eating slowly and mindfully. Pay attention to how different foods affect your symptoms and ease into meals when you feel somewhat hungry.
   • Limit Triggers: Temporarily reduce or avoid carbonated drinks and sugary foods to assess whether your symptoms improve.

2. Postural Awareness:

   • Work on maintaining better posture while sitting, especially at your desk. Consider ergonomic adjustments or reminders to check your posture regularly.

3. Hydration Balance:

   • Monitor your water intake and adjust it according to your body’s needs. If you find hydration pertains to your pain, limit excessive drinking when discomfort arises. Drink to thirst instead of habit.

4. Stress Management:

   • Continue utilizing therapy or stress-reduction techniques (like mindfulness or relaxation exercises). This may further improve both your mental wellbeing and digestive health.

5. Professional Guidance:

   • If symptoms persist despite these adjustments, consider exploring evaluation for food intolerances or allergies with a nutritionist or gastroenterologist, if you haven't already. Your history suggests it may be crucial.

Please remember that improvement may take some time, and these changes should be gradual. Staying hopeful and committed to this process can lead to a better understanding of your body and possible relief from your symptoms. If anything changes drastically, or if you have more questions along the way, feel free to reach out for support.