Pain in the Upper Central Abdomen
Age: 24 | Height: 5’8 | Weight: 125-130 lbs Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for some guidance. Currently, I’m living in England and have been experiencing persistent upper middle abdominal discomfort for the last two months. These episodes strike unexpectedly, typically at night, and can last for several hours. The intensity of the pain is such that I find no relief. I consulted with a NHS general practitioner here, expressing my concerns about the possibility of gallstones or an ulcer. However, she seemed to discount my worries, attributing my symptoms to my age and perceived health status, labeling me as “young, active, and slim.” I’m curious if anyone has insights into what might be causing this issue. Should I consider visiting a private healthcare provider here in England, or would it be advisable to return to the US for a consultation with my regular doctors? The GP diagnosed me with indigestion after I mentioned that over-the-counter medications like Pepcid and Tums did not alleviate my pain, leaving me unsure about my next steps.
Answers (1)
7/3/2025, 10:40:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing persistent upper abdominal discomfort that is causing significant concern and affecting your quality of life. Given the duration and nature of your symptoms, it's important to take a clear and methodical approach to find relief and better understand the underlying cause.
Summary of Main Points:
- Persistent upper abdominal pain lasting two months needs investigation.
- Evaluating potential causes such as gallstones or ulcers is essential.
- Consideration of further medical evaluation is warranted.
Explanation:
Abdominal pain can stem from various issues, including but not limited to:
- Gallstones: Often causes pain in the upper right side or central abdomen.
- Peptic ulcers: Can cause discomfort, particularly after meals or at night.
- Other conditions: Such as gastritis or even gastrointestinal issues like food intolerances.
Your symptoms, especially the night-time occurrence and lack of relief from over-the-counter medications, warrant a more thorough exploration than what you've received so far. It's understandable to feel frustrated when you're not getting the answers you need.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track when the pain occurs, its intensity, duration, and any accompanying symptoms (nausea, changes in appetite, etc.). This can provide valuable information for any healthcare provider.
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Consider Seeking a Specialist: If you feel your concerns are not being taken seriously, consider requesting a referral to a gastroenterologist where you currently live or obtaining a second opinion from a private healthcare provider in England. It's essential that you feel heard and your concerns addressed.
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Explore Dietary Changes: In the meantime, you might try avoiding high-fat foods, spicy foods, and acidic beverages to see if your symptoms improve. Eating small, balanced meals can also help.
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Monitor Symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms like vomiting, fever, or significant abdominal swelling, seek immediate medical attention.
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Follow Up with Your General Practitioner: If you're still feeling dismissed, it can be helpful to clearly express your concerns and ask for specific tests, like an ultrasound or endoscopy, to rule out serious conditions.
Reach out again if you need further guidance or support as you navigate this. Your health is important, and addressing these symptoms is a priority.
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