Intense Abdominal Discomfort Seeking Guidance
I'm an 18-year-old female who has experienced debilitating stomach pains and persistent nausea for nearly a month, significantly limiting my ability to eat. Just over a week ago, my condition worsened to the point where I couldn’t manage even a single cracker. I have been admitted to the hospital for three days, yet the only relief provided has been from pain medication, which isn't effective at all. The medical team attending to me consists solely of pediatric doctors, and they continuously attribute my symptoms to anxiety. Unfortunately, I have not been evaluated by a gastroenterologist, and now they are suggesting I can be discharged despite my inability to ingest food. While numerous routine tests have been conducted, all results have returned normal. I feel as though my concerns are not being taken seriously, and I'm feeling quite lost regarding my next steps. What tests should I advocate for? (Additionally, I noticed they haven't performed any breath tests, which I understand can help identify underlying issues.)
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 7:30:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing a very challenging situation with debilitating stomach pain and nausea, especially when it’s impacting your ability to eat. I understand how frustrating it must be to feel that your symptoms are not being fully acknowledged or addressed. Focused, action-oriented steps can help you advocate for your health effectively.
Understanding Your Situation
Debilitating abdominal pain and persistent nausea that lasts for weeks are valid symptoms that deserve thorough investigation. While anxiety can be a factor for some, it’s crucial to ensure that physical causes, particularly gastrointestinal issues, are properly evaluated too.
Next Steps to Consider
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Advocate for a Gastroenterology Referral: Request that your medical team refers you to a gastroenterologist. These specialists can provide insight into potential digestive disorders that may be linked to your symptoms. This is essential, especially since you're experiencing ongoing abdominal pain and nausea.
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Inquire About Specific Tests:
- Breath Tests: These can help diagnose conditions like lactose intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), both of which can cause gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Ultrasound or CT Scan: If not already done, imaging studies can help rule out anatomical issues such as gallstones or other structural problems.
- Endoscopy: This might be recommended to visually inspect your gastrointestinal tract and potentially collect tissue samples for further testing.
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Documenting Your Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary noting when your pain worsens, what you eat, and any other symptoms. This information can help health professionals better understand your condition and may provide insights into potential triggers.
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Seeking a Second Opinion: If you feel uncomfortable with your current medical team's approach, consider discussing the possibility of transferring care to a facility or team that has more experience with gastrointestinal issues, especially geared towards adults rather than pediatric care.
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Nutritional Considerations: While you may be struggling to ingest food, consider speaking with a dietitian, who can help you explore gentle nutrition options that may be easier to tolerate. Options like clear broths, electrolyte fluids, or specialized nutrition drinks may help you gradually increase your intake.
Reassurance
It’s understandable to feel lost at this point, especially when you're not getting the answers you need. Remember, your health concerns are valid, and you have the right to advocate for a thorough evaluation that addresses all potential causes of your symptoms. Don’t hesitate to assertively express your needs to your healthcare team.
If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to trusted family or friends for support as you navigate this process. Your wellness matters, and it's worth pursuing the care you deserve. Let me know if you need further details or assistance!
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