Seeking Guidance on Ongoing Stomach Discomfort
Hello, I'm an 18-year-old female weighing 117 pounds. Lately, I have been experiencing persistent stomach pain that feels almost incessant. It’s uncomfortable and has been disruptive enough to wake me up multiple times during the night. I don’t experience any vomiting or typical sickness; rather, it’s a constant, twisting ache that’s quite bothersome. On occasions when the pain intensifies, I develop a rash on my face, which makes me appear flushed, similar to the effects of embarrassment. My ears feel warm as well, but interestingly, I haven't had a fever. Additionally, I've noticed some unintended weight loss even though I’m eating adequately. I quickly dropped from 124 pounds to 117, and I recently observed a notable difference in my appearance when looking in the mirror. I’m uncertain about the underlying cause. I do have a doctor’s appointment lined up, but I’m hoping to receive some input or advice in the meantime to help guide me.
Answers (1)
7/21/2025, 2:01:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with very uncomfortable stomach pain and some concerning symptoms, including unintended weight loss and the rash you described. Given that these issues have disrupted your sleep and are causing you distress, it's good that you have a doctor's appointment lined up, as they will be able to provide a thorough evaluation.
Explanation
Your symptoms can arise from various causes, such as gastrointestinal issues (like gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, or food intolerances), inflammatory responses, or even stress and anxiety, which can sometimes manifest physically. The associated rash and facial flushing could suggest an underlying allergic reaction or another systemic response. The weight loss, especially if you're eating well, is something to take seriously, as it can indicate a more significant issue.
Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Document when your stomach pain occurs, its intensity, and any activities or foods that seem to trigger or worsen it. Also, note when the rash appears and how long it lasts. This information will help your doctor pinpoint the issue.
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Monitor Your Diet: Pay attention to any particular foods that may correlate with your stomach discomfort. You may want to avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods and see if that alleviates your symptoms. Keep track of any changes in how you feel after eating.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can exacerbate digestive issues. Aim for 8–10 cups of water a day; more if you're active.
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Gentle Self-Care: Consider some light physical activity, such as walking, as it might help with digestion. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or gentle yoga can help manage stress, contributing to overall well-being.
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Prepare for Your Doctor’s Appointment: When you meet your doctor, share your symptom diary and history of weight loss. This will help them evaluate the situation more effectively.
It's understandable to feel anxious about these symptoms, but keeping a detailed account and making minor adjustments can be helpful until your appointment. Trust that your doctor will work with you to find the right approach to alleviate your discomfort. If your symptoms worsen significantly (like severe pain, fever, or the rash spreading), you may need to seek medical attention sooner.
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