Seeking Relief from Constant Nausea
Greetings, Reddit community, I find myself in desperate need of assistance. Please forgive the disjointed nature of my message; I’m feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. I am a 32-year-old woman from the UK, Caucasian. My current medication includes cetirizine. To clarify, I partake in very little alcohol—only during special events—and I neither smoke nor engage in recreational drugs. In my teenage years and early twenties, I endured sporadic episodes of severe abdominal pain that could only be alleviated by lying flat. At times, the discomfort was so intense that I genuinely thought I was experiencing an appendix emergency. For the last decade, I have been battling recurring bouts of nausea and stomach discomfort. Although the agonizing cramps have subsided, I am left with persistent queasiness, abdominal pain, bloating, frequent burping, and an overall feeling of malaise that includes symptoms such as anxiety, hot flashes, and fatigue. During flare-ups, the nausea intensifies, often leading me to rush to the bathroom in anticipation of vomiting—though I do not actually vomit. I frequently experience a tight sensation in my throat, known as a 'glob,' and find no respite regardless of whether I am standing, seated, or lying down. These episodes can last anywhere from several days to weeks. My bowel movements are generally regular, but I do occasionally face constipation. I have consulted my general practitioner multiple times over the years. Most often, they conduct a few tests for vitamin deficiencies and H. Pylori, prescribe omeprazole and some vitamins, and then advise me, "It sounds like IBS. Sorry about that." While I’m open to the IBS diagnosis, I am frustrated that none of the prescribed treatments have alleviated my symptoms. I have tried omeprazole, Pepto-Bismol, antacids, anti-nausea medications, B12, and iron supplements—yet nothing seems effective. I've also maintained food journals, eliminated dairy from my diet, and experimented with fasting. I plan to begin a low-FODMAP diet for 6-8 weeks while keeping track of my symptoms. Interestingly, my symptoms don’t appear to be food-related, as I can consume an abundance of wholesome, home-cooked meals and still experience debilitating nausea. Conversely, I have fast food or processed meals at times with no issues whatsoever. Ultimately, I am not fixated on the diagnosis of IBS; what I truly crave is relief from this relentless nausea that disrupts my life. When flare-ups occur, they hinder my concentration and sleep, leaving me scared of potential vomiting. I seek guidance on how to effectively communicate with my GP to ensure they recognize the severe impact this has on my mental health during flare-ups and to seek a clearer understanding of what is actually happening with my body. Thank you for taking the time to read my concerns.
Answers (1)
4/23/2025, 10:02:00 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the persistent nausea and discomfort you're experiencing. It's understandable to feel overwhelmed when dealing with such ongoing symptoms, especially when they affect your daily life and mental health. Let's focus on finding some relief and improving your communication with your GP.
Main Points:
- Persistent Nausea: Your ongoing symptoms may relate to an underlying condition like IBS, but relief is the priority.
- Communicating with Your GP: It's important to express the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your quality of life.
Explanation:
The symptoms you're describing—nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, and the sensation of a tight throat—could indeed be related to conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal disorders. Stress and anxiety can also exacerbate these symptoms, influencing how your body reacts during flare-ups. You've already taken proactive steps—like eliminating certain foods and planning to try a low-FODMAP diet—which can help, but it may take time to find the right approach.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Start Low-FODMAP Diet: Begin your low-FODMAP diet as planned for 6-8 weeks. Monitor your symptoms closely to identify any potential triggers or patterns.
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Keep a Detailed Symptom Journal: Continue tracking food intake, symptoms, and their intensity. Note how the nausea impacts your concentration and sleep. This diary can be valuable for your next GP visit.
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Prepare for Your GP Appointment:
- Make a list of all your symptoms and their severity.
- Share how your symptoms affect your daily life, mental well-being, and anxiety levels.
- Discuss the treatments you've tried and their effects. Being clear about what hasn't worked can help guide your doctor towards alternative options.
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Explore Additional Relief Measures:
- Hydration: Ensure you’re staying hydrated, as this can help alleviate nausea.
- Ginger or Peppermint: Consider natural remedies like ginger tea or peppermint capsules. These can sometimes soothe nausea for many individuals.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help ease anxiety and may reduce the severity of flare-ups.
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Follow-Up: Keep your GP posted on any changes or lack of improvement. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, advocate for further tests or referrals to specialists such as a gastroenterologist.
Remember, you're not alone in this, and it’s okay to seek a deeper understanding of what’s happening with your body. Keep advocating for yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you need it. If there’s anything more specific you’d like to discuss or clarify, feel free to ask.
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