Seeking Guidance: Daily Abdominal Pain and Uncertainty
I'm a 23-year-old female with a medical history including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and asthma. Back in January, I found myself in the emergency room due to intense discomfort in my upper left abdomen, alongside blood present in my stool. During this period, I was also battling pneumonia and COVID-19, and the doctors informed me that the source of my abdominal pain was a bleeding ulcer, a consequence of the medications I was prescribed. Now, moving ahead to March, I'm still experiencing ongoing stomach pain. Although it's not as severe as it once was, it remains a constant source of discomfort in my daily life. The pain presents itself sharply and tends to intensify when my stomach is empty. After undergoing a gastroscopy, I learned I have a hiatal hernia, yet the only intervention I received was a prescription for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). As of mid-June, the consistent abdominal pain has yet to dissipate. At times, it significantly hampers my activities, compelling me to pause and rest. I also had an ultrasound and some blood tests recently; since I haven’t received any follow-up calls, I’m assuming the results were normal. However, I noticed that my ferritin levels were lower than last year, despite my ongoing iron supplementation, and I’m unsure whether this is connected to my current symptoms. I am unable to secure an appointment with my gastroenterologist until fall, and the prolonged pain is becoming increasingly unbearable. Additionally, I’ve noticed a 10-pound weight gain without making any changes to my lifestyle, and I’m often feeling bloated. I'm reaching out for advice. What steps should I consider next? Is it possible that the pain could stem from another issue? Just for context, I reside in Canada.
Answers (1)
6/15/2025, 3:10:43 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been enduring a lot of discomfort, and it's understandable to feel frustrated and concerned given your history and ongoing symptoms. Your abdominal pain, in conjunction with your medical background and recent health events, can indeed be challenging to navigate.
Main Points:
- Persistent abdominal pain can stem from multiple factors, including your hiatal hernia, and it can worsen based on your eating habits and stress.
- Monitoring your symptoms and adjusting your diet might help alleviate some discomfort.
- Given your ferritin levels and recent weight gain, it’s worth exploring dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments simultaneously.
Explanation:
Your abdominal pain, especially when it's sharp and worsens with an empty stomach, may be related to the hiatal hernia, which can lead to acid reflux and irritation. The connection between your lower ferritin levels and iron supplementation might indicate that your body isn't absorbing iron effectively, potentially due to digestive issues. Gaining weight unexpectedly and experiencing bloating may also point towards dietary intolerances or changes in your metabolism related to PCOS or other factors.
Next Steps:
-
Dietary Adjustments:
- Try smaller, more frequent meals rather than three large ones. Incorporate easily digestible foods, and consider avoiding spicy, fatty, or fried items that can exacerbate your symptoms.
- Keep a food diary to identify any triggers that may worsen your pain or bloating. This will help you connect specific foods with your symptoms.
-
Medication Management:
- Continue taking your proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) as prescribed, but discuss with your doctor if a different medication or dosage might better alleviate your symptoms, especially if you notice any side effects.
-
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Engage in gentle, regular exercise to help with weight management and bloating. Activities like walking or yoga can be beneficial.
- Focus on stress management techniques such as mindfulness or meditation, as stress can impact your digestive system.
-
Symptom Tracking:
- Keep track of your pain levels, dietary intake, and any other symptoms (like bloating or weight changes) in a journal. This can help you when you eventually meet with your gastroenterologist.
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Ferritin and Iron Levels:
- Continue your iron supplementation, and consider incorporating iron-rich foods (like leafy greens, beans, and lean meats) into your diet. Make sure these foods are balanced with sources of vitamin C, which can aid in iron absorption.
If your symptoms worsen significantly or if you experience new concerning signs (like severe weight loss, ongoing diarrhea, or persistent vomiting), prioritize seeking immediate medical advice. Your health is important, and these steps can help you manage your symptoms more effectively until you can see a specialist. Don't hesitate to reach out for additional support if needed.
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