Seeking Answers for Persistent Upper Abdominal Symptoms
Age 66, height 5'9", weight 185 lbs, with no history of alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drug use. I’ve been on Crestor and Protonix for several years now. For the past two months, I’ve been experiencing discomfort in the upper left section of my abdomen. I have existing conditions of GERD, esophagitis, and a sliding hiatal hernia, but these issues emerged without any prior symptoms. I underwent several tests, including CRP, CMT, and lipase assessments, along with an abdominal ultrasound and a CT scan, all of which returned normal results. Despite this, I continue to experience discomfort in my upper left region and back, and I have noticed yellow-colored stools that are well-formed. Could anyone provide insights on what might be behind these ongoing symptoms? I appreciate any help you can offer.
Answers (1)
4/4/2025, 4:40:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing persistent upper abdominal discomfort, which is understandably concerning, especially given your previous medical history with GERD, esophagitis, and a hiatal hernia. Your current symptoms, including discomfort in the upper left abdomen and yellow stools, merit further attention, even though previous tests returned normal results.
Explanation:
The discomfort you’re experiencing could stem from a variety of factors, particularly in the context of your existing gastrointestinal issues. Conditions related to GERD and a sliding hiatal hernia can sometimes cause discomfort and might lead to symptoms that are mistaken for problems arising from other organs. It's also worth noting that changes in stool color, especially yellow stools, can indicate changes in bile production or absorption and could be associated with digestive issues.
Since your tests have come back normal, it's important to consider potential non-organic causes, lifestyle factors, or dietary intolerances that might be contributing to your discomfort.
Next Steps:
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Dietary Adjustments: Pay close attention to your diet and avoid known GERD triggers such as spicy foods, caffeine, and high-fat meals. Keeping a food diary can help you identify any patterns in your symptoms related to specific foods.
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Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms. Incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation into your daily routine to help manage stress levels.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal documenting your symptoms, including the timing, intensity, and any correlating factors (like what you ate). This can be useful for identifying potential triggers.
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Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day, as hydration can impact digestion.
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Consider a Follow-up Discussion: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider discussing with your healthcare provider the possibility of additional evaluations, such as reviewing your medications for side effects or considering referrals to a gastroenterologist for a closer examination of your digestive health.
Remember, it’s important to be attentive to your body and communicate any changes to your healthcare provider, especially if you notice any new or worsening symptoms. Your health is a priority, and addressing these discomforts is vital to your overall well-being. Please take care, and feel free to share any updates or further questions!
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