Abdominal Discomfort and Severe Pain Episodes Post-Meal
Age: 24, Height: 178 cm, Weight: 78 kg Since the age of six, I have experienced persistent discomfort in my upper abdomen approximately half an hour after consuming food. This discomfort usually presents as a mild ache, accompanied by a sensation akin to something being off or rotten in my upper stomach — a feeling that's difficult to articulate. In addition to the post-meal discomfort, I often find myself battling extreme fatigue, headaches, and tightness in my neck after eating. I undergo severe pain episodes in my upper right abdomen every two to six months. These incidents begin with a sensation of pressure that escalates over about two hours, culminating in intense vomiting that can last for over ten hours. Following the initial episode of vomiting, the pressure transforms into stabbing pain in the same region, which also endures for more than ten hours. Strangely, these episodes feel like a reset for my abdomen, leaving me feeling considerably improved for several weeks, only for the discomfort to gradually reemerge until the next painful cycle. Every month or two, I also experience intense cramping in my lower abdomen, necessitating an urgent bowel movement due to overwhelming internal pressure building up in that area. My bowel movements are consistently soft, resembling wet mud, and occasionally, I notice a slimy orange coating on my stool. Within the past four years, I have undergone extensive blood testing. The most notable consistent result is my bilirubin level, which has been around 45, while my CRP levels are generally normal, occasionally rising to a slightly elevated range of 12-14. I would greatly appreciate insights that could help clarify my condition and suggestions on the best steps to take moving forward.
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 7:40:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your detailed symptoms and concerns. It sounds like you've been dealing with quite a bit, and I commend you for seeking clarity. Given your history of abdominal discomfort, severe pain episodes post-meal, and accompanying symptoms, there are several potential conditions we should consider, including possible gastrointestinal disorders.
Key Points:
- Chronic Abdominal Discomfort & Severe Pain: Your symptoms suggest a possible issue with your digestive system, such as gallbladder problems, gastritis, or a condition like Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Elevated Bilirubin Levels: A bilirubin level of 45 is above the normal range and may indicate a problem with bile production or liver function.
- Bowel Movement Changes: The characteristics of your stools and associated urgency could indicate malabsorption issues or other gastrointestinal concerns.
Explanation:
The combination of your upper abdominal discomfort, severe pain after meals, and abnormal stool characteristics suggests that your digestive system may not be functioning properly. Conditions like gallstones or inflammation in the liver or bile ducts can cause similar symptoms and may relate to your elevated bilirubin. Your episodes of severe pain followed by vomiting could point to a blockage or inflammation.
Next Steps:
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Diet Modifications:
- Keep a Food Diary: Track what you eat and the subsequent symptoms. This can help identify any triggers.
- Avoid Common Irritants: Reduce high-fat foods, spicy meals, and caffeine, as these can aggravate gastrointestinal issues.
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Hydration & Rest: Ensure you stay well-hydrated and allow your body to rest, especially during episodes of fatigue or discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your abdominal pain, the duration, severity, and any other symptoms (like chills, sweating, or changes in bowel habits).
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Consider an Elimination Diet: If certain foods seem to trigger your symptoms, try eliminating them one at a time to see if there's improvement.
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Relevant Health Checks: Since you have elevated bilirubin, a follow-up with tests such as an abdominal ultrasound, liver function tests, or consult specialists like a gastroenterologist may be beneficial at this stage, even if you're not seeking immediate medical advice.
Your symptoms are complex, and while self-care can help manage discomfort in the meantime, a detailed investigation by a healthcare professional will be essential for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. Please keep me updated on how you're feeling.
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