Struggling with Ongoing Abdominal Issues
I’m 37 years old, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 205 pounds. In June 2023, I underwent gallbladder removal due to complications, and I have a Mallory Weiss tear. I don’t smoke and have maintained sobriety for approximately five years. The only medications I take are famotidine for occasional heartburn and Excedrin for migraines. My health struggles have persisted for about three years now. My ordeal began in May 2022, and no, I am not expecting a child. I experienced severe vomiting, unable to retain anything in my stomach for more than a few minutes. In that month alone, I lost nearly 70 pounds. After spending four days in the hospital, I was informed that sludge in my gallbladder was inconsequential, and they assured me I was fine—suggesting it was all psychological. After such dismissals, I felt hopeless for a time. Eventually, I began experiencing severe, sharp pain on my side. I underwent two HIDA scans and even participated in a test where I consumed oatmeal and laid still in a scanner for an entire hour, but I ended up vomiting into a basin during the process. Nevertheless, the doctors insisted that everything appeared normal. After a few months of enduring persistent pain, I could no longer tolerate it and had to have my gallbladder surgically removed in June 2023. The gallbladder was swollen and filled with stones, and it was affecting my liver. I had hoped this would finally provide a solution. However, just two months later, I found myself dealing with unexpected vomiting once again. Now, I am facing alarming new discomfort in my right abdomen and can't keep food down at all. Last Friday, I visited the emergency room, only to hear once more that all my tests returned normal. I am at my wits' end—financially and mentally, I can’t keep enduring this cycle. It feels as if food is getting stuck somewhere and never properly digested. At times, even if I manage to keep something down for a couple of hours, it doesn't seem to make it further; I have no forewarning of nausea, and often find myself bolting mid-bite towards a sink or bathroom because it’s already rising. I’ve attempted eliminating dairy and gluten from my diet for a month each, but nothing has improved. The Mallory Weiss tear adds to the frustration, as frequent vomiting aggravates it, resulting in a cycle that seems impossible to break due to the bleeding. I am reaching out in hopes that someone might have insight or suggestions on how to move forward from here.
Answers (1)
7/14/2025, 9:50:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about the challenges you’re facing with your ongoing abdominal issues. It sounds very frustrating and can understandably impact both your physical health and emotional well-being. Given your situation, let's break down some key points and explore actionable steps to help you manage your symptoms effectively.
Main Points:
- You have a history of gastrointestinal issues, including a Mallory Weiss tear and recent gallbladder removal.
- Persistent symptoms suggest possible motility issues (how food moves through your digestive system).
- Dietary changes and digestive health need further exploration beyond what you've already tried.
Explanation:
Your symptoms of vomiting and abdominal pain, especially given your recent surgery and the tear, can be indicative of several underlying issues. These may include:
- Gastroparesis: This condition affects how well food moves from the stomach to the intestines, leading to delayed emptying and potentially causing the sensation of food getting "stuck."
- Biliary issues: Problems related to the bile ducts can persist even after gallbladder removal.
- Reflux or further digestive tract complications: Your ongoing vomiting might also be related to issues with the esophagus or the stomach.
It's encouraging that your tests returned normal, but the persistence of symptoms suggests that further investigation may be necessary to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort.
Next Steps:
-
Keep a Symptom Diary:
- Record when you eat, what you eat, your symptoms (timing, severity), and any associated activities (like stress).
- This diary will help identify any patterns and can be shared with your healthcare provider.
-
Consider an Elimination Diet:
- Since you’ve tried removing dairy and gluten, you might explore a more comprehensive elimination diet, removing common irritants (like certain high-FODMAP foods). This should be done cautiously and preferably with guidance from a nutritionist experienced in gastrointestinal health.
-
Focus on Slow, Small Meals:
- Eating smaller meals more frequently rather than three large meals may ease your symptoms. Consider soft, easily digestible foods that are less likely to provoke nausea.
-
Hydration and Electrolytes:
- Stay hydrated, as vomiting can lead to dehydration. Consider oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte drinks if you are unable to keep down regular fluids.
-
Consult a Gastroenterologist:
- Given the complexity of your issues, seeing a specialist who can conduct more specialized tests (like gastric emptying studies) could provide further insights.
-
Explore Medications:
- Discuss with your doctor potential medications that can enhance gastric motility or reduce nausea. Medications like metoclopramide may help with gastric emptying, but this must be prescribed by a physician.
-
Mental Health Support:
- The cycle of repeated health issues can be emotionally taxing; consider engaging with a mental health professional to explore coping strategies and support.
I empathize with your situation and hope this guidance helps you find a path forward. Remember, you're not alone in this, and seeking specialized support can be a key step in addressing your ongoing concerns. If you have more particular questions or need further clarity, feel free to ask.
Related Questions
Two Weeks Post-Surgery: Ongoing Bleeding Concerns
My sister began to bleed through the steri strips applied by the nurse after her surgery. Is there a safe way to gently remove these so we can clean the area properly? She had two blood clots prior to the operation, leading to her being prescribed enoxaparin injections at a dosage of 60mg every twelve hours. These injections were halted two days before her surgery, but resumed at a daily frequency starting two days post-operation. Upon returning home, we increased the dosage to twice a day. For context, my sister, a 31-year-old woman, underwent surgery on July 3rd for the placement of a port-a-cath. The surgical site was sealed with both glue and sutures, and we were advised that they would eventually fall off naturally. Approximately two days ago, we noticed some bleeding at the site. Initially, we covered it with gauze and a clear dressing. Following instructions, we removed the bandage to allow the site to air out, but some of the glue started to flake away as well. We cleaned the area thoroughly and reapplied a fresh dressing. Each time we noticed bleeding, we carefully changed the bandage, ensuring we used sterile techniques. On Saturday, we sought help at the ER, where the staff followed our cleaning process. However, during their assessment, one nurse inadvertently removed a significant portion of the glue and sutures, mistaking them for dried blood. We informed her that these needed to remain intact, but after some hesitation, she applied new steri strips and a gauze dressing. Later that night, we observed more bleeding through the gauze, prompting us to clean and change the dressings again, adding additional steri strips as recommended. Now, the area is bleeding through the steri strips once more, and we're uncertain whether removing them is advisable without risking exposure to moisture. Moreover, we're concerned about the potential for infection. She has been off the blood thinners for a full day due to the persistent bleeding. We've already reached out to her primary care provider, contacted a registered nurse on call, and visited the ER. All of them have suggested that we simply apply pressure to the area.
Recovery After My Accident: Seeking Guidance
I’m a 32-year-old woman currently taking birth control, sertraline hcl, ferrous sulfate, Zepbound, and vitamin B12. On July 2, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in significant swelling and bruising in my right leg. The following day, I experienced difficulty walking and adhered to the R.I.C.E. method for care. Later, I went to an urgent care facility after developing pain in my shoulder and neck. An X-ray was conducted on my neck and chest, but they didn’t address the issues with my leg. At that time, I was limping and had trouble moving my right foot, both in pointing and flexing. As treatment, I was prescribed a week’s worth of 800mg ibuprofen and 500mg methocarbamol. I returned to my job on July 8, where I work in a kitchen with shifts lasting between 8 to 10 hours. My mobility gradually improved with each passing day; however, July 13 marked the day of the most intense pain I've experienced, despite the medications. By July 14, I noticed that I still have prominent, hard bruises (over three inches long) on both the front and side of my leg. Although the bruising is finally showing signs of improvement, my leg has started to feel itchy. Currently, my primary care physician is away for the week. I'm uncertain if I should wait for her to return or if I should seek immediate care. I’m apprehensive about going to urgent care due to the possibility of being dismissed. I know I can handle pain well, but I fear I might overlook a serious issue that could arise in the future if I don’t get it checked out soon.
Unexplained Health Issues
At 27 years old, and standing at 5'6" with a weight of 150 pounds, I have found myself facing a troubling battle with chronic fatigue and frequent bouts of dizziness, even during moments of rest. The onset of these issues can be traced back to an unusual ocular migraine I had shortly after ringing in the New Year. Though I have encountered ocular migraines before, this particular incident was unlike any previous experience. Following its conclusion, I was overwhelmed by an incessant feeling of dread, coupled with heightened anxiety and panic that clung to me relentlessly throughout the day. Along with these mental strains came debilitating fatigue and a sensation of lightheadedness. In the time since, I’ve also been experiencing: - Constant pressure in my forehead - Intermittent discomfort in the back of my head - Sensitivity to light that occasionally lasts for weeks - Chronic swelling in the lymph nodes on the left side of my neck, a condition that has persisted for five years following a mono diagnosis, leading me to question if this may be connected to my current symptoms. At first, I believed my symptoms were psychological, prompting me to consult a psychiatrist. After exploring various medications and therapies, they determined that I did not meet the criteria for clinical depression or panic disorder. Eventually, I discovered that I had been exposed to significant mold in my apartment, which may have been present for an extended period. Results from a Farmer’s Lung panel confirmed the presence of Penicillium betae, thus compelling me to relocate. However, it has now been nearly three months since my exit from that environment, and yet I continue to endure daily fatigue, dizziness, and relentless headaches, which are taking a severe toll on my overall well-being. Recent laboratory tests indicated deficiencies in both vitamin D and B12, for which I have commenced supplementation. I recently consulted a neurologist who has recommended an MRI and MRA later this month. Their hypothesis suggests that I might require improved sleep and enhanced management for migraines. I was prescribed nortriptyline, commencing with 10mg at night, before increasing to 20mg in the second week, and aiming for 30mg in the third. Initially, the 10mg dosage yielded positive results, significantly improving my condition. However, upon escalating to 20mg, I began experiencing severe faintness during any activity that elevated my heart rate. After just two days of this distress, my physician advised me to revert to 10mg. Regrettably, this past week has felt like a regression, as I find myself back at square one. I am making concerted efforts to improve my condition by staying hydrated, engaging in 30 minutes of running four times a week, and averaging 6 to 7 hours of sleep nightly (with the occasional lucky night reaching 9 hours). Nevertheless, I remain trapped in a cycle of persistent fatigue, faintness, and disruptive headaches. This situation is extremely disheartening, causing me to feel on the brink of losing my sanity. I am acutely aware that something is amiss, and at my age, I shouldn’t be enduring this struggle every single day.
Seeking Assistance with My Health Journey: A Case Study
I am an 18-year-old male, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 135 pounds. The onset of my health troubles dates back to April 2024 during my junior year of high school. One day, I returned home and was struck by a sharp pain in my right lower abdomen, which intensified with any movement, accompanied by episodes of dizziness and vertigo. In the months that followed, the discomfort spread to my back, chest, and then my left lower abdomen. Despite these issues, I experienced no gastrointestinal problems, although urination became challenging. I didn’t have fevers or episodes of vomiting, but I did endure extreme fatigue and recurrent pain episodes. In June, I finally sought medical attention, as my health coverage had just activated. After conducting some standard tests, my doctor found everything to be largely normal. I was prescribed nitrofurantoin for what was deemed a mild urinary tract infection. However, rather than improvement, my condition deteriorated, prompting a follow-up in July. Luckily, my urine cultures came back negative. By August, my weight had plummeted from 135 to 115 pounds. By October, my health improved significantly, largely attributed to major lifestyle modifications. I was experiencing far less discomfort, but I started noticing unusual swelling in my blood vessels when exposed to sunlight, which often became tender. Additionally, small red spots and a distinctive lacy rash appeared on my arms, legs, hands, and feet. Although peculiar, I didn't find it overly concerning at that moment. Nevertheless, by December, pain radiated through my wrists and hands, spreading to my arms and legs over the coming months. I also observed that my hands were turning a stark purple and an intense red. Towards the end of January, I returned to the doctor, informing him about my family’s history of thyroid and autoimmune diseases. Various tests were conducted, including ANA, rheumatoid factor, CCP antibody, sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein, none of which indicated any current illness. I felt defeated as my arms were in agony, yet I still lacked answers. In April, I took the initiative to find a new healthcare provider. An EKG conducted during my visit revealed left atrial enlargement, sinus arrhythmia, and right axis deviation. My blood pressure readings had also been moderately elevated during prior visits. Following this, I underwent a stress test and was diagnosed with acrocyanosis (peripheral artery disease). A referral for an echocardiogram indicated that there were no structural heart issues, but tests revealed a left ventricular ejection fraction of 50%. Alarmingly, my labs indicated lymphocyte levels at 55% and neutrophils at 33%, with the latter being below normal ranges. Consequently, I was directed to consult with a specialist in autoimmune diseases to explore my symptoms further.
Concerns Regarding Effectiveness of Cat Bite Treatment
Hello everyone, On Saturday around 1 PM, my girlfriend (24 years old, 5'6", 200 lbs) experienced a severe bite from our cat on one of her fingers. Immediately after the incident, she cleaned the wound thoroughly, applied some antibiotic ointment, and wrapped it with a bandage. Unfortunately, we didn't seek medical attention at that moment and opted to manage it at home instead. By Sunday morning, it became evident that the wound was becoming infected, as there was noticeable swelling, redness, pus, and pain. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, we decided to head to urgent care, where we were referred to the emergency room. We arrived at the ER between 5 and 6 PM on Sunday, roughly 30 hours after the initial bite. The attending doctor examined her finger, prescribed Augmentin, and recommended that we see a hand specialist the following day for potential surgical intervention—essentially, to clean and flush the wound. The next day, we followed up with the hand specialist. She seemed relatively unconcerned, marking the edges of the infection with a pen and scheduling a follow-up appointment for the coming Monday. She also advised that we should go straight to the ER if my girlfriend's condition worsened or if the infection spread. As it stands, we are now about 58 hours post-bite, and my girlfriend has been taking Augmentin for just over 24 hours. I can't help but feel anxious about this process, as I know cat bites can lead to serious complications, particularly if not treated promptly. I've read numerous accounts online of individuals requiring IV antibiotics and surgical procedures due to similar injuries. It feels like we've been shuffled between different doctors, while my girlfriend is at home relying on Augmentin. Her finger remains swollen, but the red infected area hasn't expanded since yesterday and appears somewhat less inflamed. Furthermore, she doesn't exhibit any signs of illness, such as a fever or pain. I think these might be good signs, but I'm also aware that such infections can escalate rapidly, and feeling well now doesn't guarantee safety moving forward. Therefore, my question is: does the treatment and care she’s received thus far seem appropriate? Should we consider hospitalization, or is it reasonable to continue monitoring her condition? Thank you for your insights.