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Try one of these related symptoms.
Abdominal discomfort
Stomach pain
Something is wrong with my tummy
Something is wrong with my stomach
This refers to any discomfort sensation anywhere in the belly region — between the chest and the groin.
Seek professional care if you experience any of the following symptoms
Generally, Stomach discomfort can be related to:
Ulcers are sores that can develop in the stomach and small intestines. In severe cases, the ulcers can be deep and cause bleeding within the gut wall. Common causes include the bacteria H. pylori, and painkillers such as Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Advil, Aleve (NSAIDs).
WDHA syndrome, which stands for watery diarrhea, hypokalemia, and achlorhydria, is a rare condition caused by an excess of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) secreted by certain tumors. VIP is both a neuromodulator and a neurotransmitter that dilates blood vessels, regulates smooth muscle activity, cell secretion, and blood flow in the gastrointestinal tract.
It is an inflammatory condition of the gut. It is part of a group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel disease or IBD. It can affect anywhere from the mouth to the anus (end of the bowel).The exact cause is not well known.
Sometimes, Stomach discomfort may be related to these serious diseases:
A condition where pregnancy occurs in any location other than the uterus. This is abnormal and most commonly occurs in the Fallopian tube, the tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus. If the pregnancy continues to grow, it may rupture and lead to life-threatening bleeding.
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this symptom:
Reviewed By:
Samantha Nazareth, MD (Gastroenterology)
Board-certified gastroenterologist. Experience managing gastrointestinal conditions (GERD, IBS, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s, celiac disease, NASH) within healthcare organizations (three ambulatory surgical centers, single-specialty practice, multi-specialty practice and solo practice).
Aiko Yoshioka, MD (Gastroenterology)
Dr. Yoshioka graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine. He worked as a gastroenterologist at Saiseikai Niigata Hospital and Niigata University Medical & Dental Hospital before serving as the Deputy Chief of Gastroenterology at Tsubame Rosai Hospital and Nagaoka Red Cross Hospital. Dr. Yoshioka joined Saitama Saiseikai Kawaguchi General Hospital as Chief of Gastroenterology in April 2018.
Content updated on Feb 6, 2025
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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Q.
Feeling "Off" With Normal Blood Pressure? Why Your Body is Still Strained & Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Normal blood pressure can coexist with feeling tired, foggy, anxious, or dizzy because BP is only one metric; common culprits include chronic stress, blood sugar swings, thyroid dysfunction, anemia or low B12/D/magnesium, sleep disorders, mild dehydration, gut issues, anxiety or depression, and sometimes early autoimmune, hormonal, infection, or heart rhythm problems. There are several factors to consider; see below for medically approved next steps like tracking symptoms, asking your clinician about targeted labs, reviewing medications, strengthening sleep, nutrition, hydration and activity, addressing stress and mood, knowing when to book an appointment, and urgent red flags that require immediate care.
References:
* Raj, S. R., & Diedrich, A. (2020). Pathophysiology of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome: a comprehensive review. *Journal of the American Heart Association*, *9*(21), e018311.
* Ohira, T., et al. (2019). Arterial stiffness and fatigue in the general population: the Framingham Heart Study. *Hypertension Research*, *42*(7), 1081-1088.
* Shah, N., et al. (2021). Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and other forms of orthostatic intolerance in Long COVID. *Heart Rhythm*, *18*(9), 1546-1552.
* Morris, G., et al. (2017). Chronic low-grade inflammation and fatigue: Current status and future directions. *Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior*, *5*(2), 65-83.
* Omland, T., & Pfeffer, M. A. (2017). Subclinical cardiovascular disease: identification and therapeutic implications. *Journal of the American College of Cardiology*, *69*(1), 45-56.
Q.
Internal Fire? Why Ibuprofen Isn’t Quelling the Throb & Your Next Steps
A.
If ibuprofen is not easing a throbbing or burning pain, common reasons include noninflammatory or nerve-related causes, under dosing or poor timing, stomach irritation from the drug itself, or a condition that has progressed and needs targeted treatment. Do not just increase the dose. There are several factors to consider; see below to understand more, including safer at-home steps, which medication alternatives may fit your pain type, the red flags that need urgent care, and how to choose your next medical visit.
References:
* Singh JA, Cameron M, Guyatt G, et al. Genetic Factors in Response to NSAIDs: A Review. J Clin Rheumatol. 2017 Jan;23(1):31-39. doi: 10.1097/RHU.0000000000000456. PMID: 27906733.
* Cohen SP, Davis DD, Erdek MA. Understanding and Managing Refractory Chronic Pain. Anesthesiology. 2021 Mar 1;134(3):477-495. doi: 10.1097/ALN.0000000000003661. PMID: 33507119.
* Vranken JH. Nociceptive Pain vs Neuropathic Pain: Distinguishing Features and Clinical Implications. Pain Pract. 2022 Jan;22(1):97-107. doi: 10.1111/papr.13063. Epub 2021 Sep 14. PMID: 34520037.
* Krames ES, Peckham EL, Stanton-Hicks M, et al. Pharmacological Management of Chronic Non-Cancer Pain: A Systematic Review. Pain Physician. 2018 Jul;21(4):E335-E355. PMID: 30045585.
* Chen J, Tu YK, Chou KY, Lin CH, Li CT. Integrated Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Management: A Systematic Review of Reviews. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Feb 16;20(4):3416. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20043416. PMID: 36833118; PMCID: PMC9957777.
Q.
Stomach Like a Brick? Why Gastroparesis Freezes Digestion & Medical Next Steps
A.
A brick-like stomach feeling can be gastroparesis, where weak or uncoordinated stomach contractions delay emptying without a blockage, causing early fullness, nausea, vomiting, bloating, pain, weight loss, and blood sugar swings, often tied to diabetes, certain medications, surgery, or infections; diagnosis usually involves a gastric emptying study, and care focuses on small low-fat low-fiber meals, glucose control, and medicines for motility and nausea, with urgent care for persistent vomiting, dehydration signs, severe pain, or bleeding. There are several factors to consider that may change your next steps. See below for key nuances on causes, complications, look-alike conditions, and advanced options like gastric electrical stimulation or nutrition support that can guide when to see a doctor and what to discuss.
References:
* Krishnasamy, S., & Olden, K. W. (2021). Gastroparesis: a state-of-the-art review. *World Journal of Gastroenterology*, *27*(40), 6828–6842. [PMID: 34764654] [PMCID: PMC8576378]
* Camilleri, M., Parkman, H. P., Shafi, M. A., Abell, T. L., & Gerson, L. (2022). American College of Gastroenterology Clinical Guideline: Gastroparesis. *The American Journal of Gastroenterology*, *117*(8), 1197–1220. [PMID: 35894142]
* Parkman, H. P., Yates, K. P., Hasler, W. L., Nguyen, L. A., Pasricha, P. J., Silvers, J., Szigethy, E., & Snape, W. J. (2022). Mechanisms of Delayed Gastric Emptying in Gastroparesis. *Digestive Diseases and Sciences*, *67*(10), 4627–4637. [PMID: 35699118] [PMCID: PMC9527715]
* Coyle, W. J., & Parkman, H. P. (2020). Gastric Emptying Scintigraphy: The Test for Gastroparesis. *Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology*, *54*(9), 767–773. [PMID: 32675661]
* Parkman, H. P. (2021). Current and Emerging Treatment Options for Gastroparesis. *Gastroenterology & Hepatology (New York, N.Y.: 2004)*, *17*(8), 434–442. [PMID: 35273574] [PMCID: PMC8873087]
Q.
Stomach Like a Stone? Why Your Gut is Stalling and Medically Approved Next Steps Using Papaya
A.
A heavy, stone-like stomach usually means digestion is slowing from things like large or high-fat meals, low fiber or fluids, stress, certain medications, constipation, or conditions such as IBS or mild gastroparesis; papaya can help via papain enzymes, fiber, water, and antioxidants to reduce bloating and post-meal heaviness. There are several factors to consider. See below for precise ways to use ripe papaya, timing and portion guidance, when to consider or avoid papain supplements, lifestyle steps that improve motility, and the red-flag symptoms that mean you should see a doctor.
References:
* Muss C, Mosgoeller W, Endler T. Effects of a Carica papaya preparation on patients with functional dyspepsia. Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2013 Aug;25(8):e666-e673. doi: 10.1111/nmo.12133. PMID: 23647475.
* Hori Y, Yamamoto M, Okamura H. The Effect of Papain on Gastric Emptying and Motility in Rats. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2002 May;17(5):565-70. doi: 10.1046/j.1440-1746.2002.02798.x. PMID: 12010465.
* Pandey S, Singh R, Tripathi P, et al. Phytochemicals and pharmacological properties of Carica papaya Linn. A critical review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2019 Jul 15;239:111956. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.111956. PMID: 30974246.
* Ohno M, Okuda K, Ohno Y, et al. Evaluation of the effect of fermented papaya preparation on constipation in elderly patients. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2005 Oct;51(5):346-50. doi: 10.3177/jnsv.51.346. PMID: 16300185.
* Roxas M. Digestive Enzymes and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Altern Med Rev. 2008 Dec;13(4):307-16. PMID: 19152478.
Q.
Headache and Stomach Ache? A Woman’s Guide to Causes & Action
A.
Headache and stomach ache together are common in women, are usually not dangerous, and most often relate to migraines, hormonal shifts around periods or perimenopause, stress, dehydration, viral illness, IBS, or food triggers, often improving with rest, hydration, and trigger management. Seek urgent care for red flags like the worst sudden headache, stiff neck with fever or confusion, severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration. There are several factors to consider, and key self care steps plus when to see a doctor are outlined in detail below.
References:
* Singh P, Park YS, Kim HS. Comorbidity of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Migraine: A Comprehensive Review. J Clin Neurol. 2021 Jul;17(3):337-347. doi: 10.3988/jcn.2021.17.3.337. Epub 2021 Jun 30. PMID: 34208076; PMCID: PMC8290333.
* Goudarzi A, Khani M, Ghassab-Abdollahi M, Ghadiri S, Mousavi SA, Khoshnevisan A, Gholamnezhad Z, Baharvand-Ahmadi H, Safarpour A. Gastrointestinal disorders in women with migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cephalalgia. 2024 Apr;44(4):3331024241229744. doi: 10.1177/03331024241229744. PMID: 38317774.
* Mishra R, Verma R, Suman M, Pandey S, Saxena AK, Singh A, Singh P. Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: current state of knowledge. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2023 Nov;308(5):1653-1662. doi: 10.1007/s00404-023-07119-7. Epub 2023 Aug 26. PMID: 37628867; PMCID: PMC10675713.
* Li J, Chen F, Pan Y, He M. Endometriosis and Migraine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pain Res Manag. 2023 Jan 27;2023:7633722. doi: 10.1155/2023/7633722. PMID: 36735552; PMCID: PMC9897184.
* Singh P, Sharma S, Singh A, Tripathi A, Goel P, Singh S. Thyroid Dysfunction and Headache: A Narrative Review. Cureus. 2023 Aug 29;15(8):e44315. doi: 10.7759/cureus.44315. PMID: 37775558; PMCID: PMC10526017.
Q.
Hypochondriac Region Pain: What Women 30-45 Must Know & Do Now
A.
Hypochondriac region pain under the ribs in women 30 to 45 commonly relates to gallbladder issues on the right, acid reflux or gastritis, liver problems, IBS or muscle strain, and sometimes pancreas or spleen conditions, with side and meal triggers offering clues. There are several factors to consider, and red flags like severe sudden pain, fever, persistent vomiting, jaundice, chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or post-injury pain require prompt care; see below for practical steps you can take now and the detailed guidance that could change your next healthcare decisions.
References:
* Tack J, Talley NJ. Functional Dyspepsia: A Challenging Condition in Clinical Practice. Gastroenterology. 2017 Aug;153(2):419-428. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2017.02.065. PMID: 28318854. PMCID: PMC7119280.
* Lacy BE, Patel NK. Diagnosis and Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). 2021 May;17(5):262-273. PMID: 34093226; PMCID: PMC8167735.
* Shabanzadeh DM, Svanholm H, Sørensen LT. Diagnosis and Management of Cholelithiasis. Scand J Gastroenterol. 2018 Oct;53(10-11):1147-1156. doi: 10.1080/00365521.2018.1506452. Epub 2018 Aug 15. PMID: 30110996.
* Lindsetmo RO, Stulberg J. Anterior Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment Syndrome: A Common and Overlooked Cause of Abdominal Pain. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2019 Mar;17(3):575-578. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2018.06.024. Epub 2018 Jun 20. PMID: 29935408.
* Gardner TB, Vege SS. Acute Pancreatitis: Pathogenesis, Clinical Manifestations, and Management. Med Clin North Am. 2020 Jan;104(1):21-39. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2019.08.007. PMID: 31753127.
Q.
Lower Left Abdominal Pain Female: Causes & Your Vital Next Steps
A.
Lower left abdominal pain in females has many possible causes, including common digestive issues (constipation, gas, IBS, diverticulitis), gynecologic conditions (ovulation pain, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, PID, ectopic pregnancy), urinary problems (UTI, kidney stones), and muscle or hernia pain. Your next steps hinge on severity and red flags: seek urgent care for sudden or worsening pain, fever, persistent vomiting, fainting or dizziness, vaginal bleeding in pregnancy, or blood in the stool or urine; otherwise rest, hydrate, track symptoms, and arrange medical review if pain persists or keeps returning. There are several factors to consider that can change your plan, including age and pregnancy status, so see the complete guidance below for critical details.
References:
* Srinivasan, R. M., & Kripke, C. (2014). Acute Abdominal Pain in Women. *American Family Physician*, *89*(12), 971-978.
* Schlottmann, F., & Patti, M. G. (2020). Acute diverticulitis: current concepts in diagnosis and treatment. *International Journal of Colorectal Disease*, *35*(2), 195-201.
* Malik, H. S., & Khan, M. N. (2018). Acute Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy: A Review for Obstetricians. *Journal of Clinical Imaging Science*, *8*.
* Basra, R., & Farquharson, D. (2014). Acute Pelvic Pain in Women. *Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Reproductive Medicine*, *24*(8), 241-248.
* Haggerty, C. L., & Ness, R. B. (2016). Pelvic inflammatory disease: current concepts in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. *Current Infectious Disease Reports*, *18*(1), 1-8.
Q.
CT Scan for Women 30-45: Essential Health Guide & Next Steps
A.
For women ages 30 to 45, a CT scan is a fast, detailed imaging test doctors use to evaluate urgent or unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain, severe headaches or head injury, chest pain or shortness of breath, trauma, and certain cancer concerns. There are several factors to consider, including radiation exposure, contrast dye safety, pregnancy considerations, what to expect before and after the scan, red flag symptoms that need immediate care, and the key questions that guide next steps. See the complete answer below for specifics that can affect your personal decision and care plan.
References:
* Huang B, et al. Radiation dose and cancer risk from CT scans in young adults. Eur Radiol. 2019 Oct;29(10):5213-5221. doi: 10.1007/s00330-019-06307-2. Epub 2019 Jul 23. PMID: 31338006.
* Dimitropoulos N, et al. Justification of medical imaging in adult patients: a review of current guidelines and recommendations. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol. 2018 Dec;62(6):708-715. doi: 10.1111/1754-9485.12814. Epub 2018 Oct 3. PMID: 30283030.
* Alibek S, et al. Radiation-free imaging in abdominal emergencies. Eur J Radiol. 2022 Dec;157:110557. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2022.110557. Epub 2022 Nov 4. PMID: 36384214.
* Schoenfelder T, et al. Shared decision-making in diagnostic imaging: A scoping review. Eur J Radiol. 2021 Aug;141:109789. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2021.109789. Epub 2021 Jul 2. PMID: 34217342.
* Lee EY, et al. Benefits and risks of medical imaging for pregnant women and women of reproductive age. Eur Radiol. 2023 Feb;33(2):1005-1015. doi: 10.1007/s00330-022-09259-7. Epub 2022 Oct 20. PMID: 36266391.
Q.
Greek Yogurt: The Secret to Better Bone and Gut Health After 65
A.
Greek yogurt can support bone and gut health after 65 by providing calcium, protein, phosphorus, and often vitamin D to help maintain bone density, along with probiotics and lower lactose to aid digestion and regularity. Aim for about 3/4 to 1 cup daily and choose plain options with live cultures and 15 to 20 grams of protein, but watch added sugars, kidney disease, lactose sensitivity, and timing with medications that interact with calcium; there are several factors to consider, and important details that could influence your next steps are explained below.
References:
* Li Q, Cao R, Li S, Hu J, Fu Q, Yu H, Wang G, Sun J, Su G. Fermented Dairy Products and Bone Mineral Density: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies. Nutrients. 2021 Jul 26;13(8):2536. doi: 10.3390/nu13082536. PMID: 34446332; PMCID: PMC8398453.
* Vlieg-Boerstra BJ, van der Sluis-van der Zee C, de Jong N, Priebe MG. Impact of Yogurt Consumption on the Gut Microbiota of Elderly Individuals. Nutrients. 2021 Apr 22;13(4):1406. doi: 10.3390/nu13041406. PMID: 33924190; PMCID: PMC8074902.
* Tuohy KM, Fardell K, Dimidi E, Gliber Z, Gibson GR. Probiotic-associated improvements in bone mineral density and bone microarchitecture in elderly adults and postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Osteoporos Int. 2021 Feb;32(2):339-354. doi: 10.1007/s00198-020-05703-9. Epub 2020 Oct 21. PMID: 33089369; PMCID: PMC7870933.
* Sacco P, De Donno N, Caira P, Mele A, De Benedetto F, Sacco G. The Dairy-Derived Peptides, Bone Health and the Gut-Bone Axis: A Review. Foods. 2021 Apr 19;10(4):872. doi: 10.3390/foods10040872. PMID: 33923058; PMCID: PMC8073551.
* Chen P, Wu W, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zhang C, Yang Y. The impact of fermented food consumption on gut microbiota composition and function in elderly individuals: a systematic review. J Nutr Sci. 2022 Mar 25;11:e23. doi: 10.1017/jns.2022.14. PMID: 35432924; PMCID: PMC9005934.
Q.
Metoclopramide for Women 65+: Safety, Side Effects & Critical Risks
A.
Metoclopramide can relieve nausea, vomiting, gastroparesis, and refractory reflux in women 65+, but age related kidney changes, greater nervous system sensitivity, and multiple medicines raise risks, so it is usually limited to short term use at the lowest effective dose; see below for who it suits best and how to use it safely. Key concerns include common drowsiness and diarrhea, plus critical risks like tardive dyskinesia that may be irreversible, parkinson-like symptoms, increased fall risk, rare neuroleptic malignant syndrome or seizures, and significant interactions with antidepressants, antipsychotics, sedatives, opioids, and Parkinson medicines. There are several warning signs that need urgent medical attention, such as new uncontrolled movements, confusion, severe stiffness, high fever, fainting, or worsening mood; see the complete checklist and next-step advice below.
References:
* Pasricha PJ, et al. Metoclopramide Use in the Elderly: A Systematic Review of Adverse Events and Efficacy. Clin Ther. 2017 Jul;39(7):1386-1398. doi: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2017.05.006. Epub 2017 Jun 12. PMID: 28619623.
* Alshammari TM, et al. Extrapyramidal side effects associated with metoclopramide: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2018 Jan;84(1):164-173. doi: 10.1111/bcp.13425. Epub 2017 Oct 18. PMID: 28889155; PMCID: PMC5736830.
* Nalamasu R, et al. Safety and efficacy of metoclopramide in the elderly: A narrative review. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2018;52(1):1-6. doi: 10.1097/MCG.0000000000000854. PMID: 28657929.
* Kim J, et al. Risk of Parkinsonism with Metoclopramide: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Pharmacol. 2021 Dec 22. doi: 10.1002/jcph.1989. Online ahead of print. PMID: 34939228.
* Rao AS, et al. Tardive dyskinesia associated with metoclopramide use: a systematic review of the literature. J Parkinsons Dis. 2017;7(4):595-603. doi: 10.3233/JPD-171120. PMID: 28946571; PMCID: PMC5759160.
Q.
Does It Hurt When You Press Here? Mapping Your Abdominal Pain to Your Organs
A.
Map where it hurts when you press to nearby organs, for example right upper abdomen to gallbladder or liver, middle upper to stomach or pancreas, and right lower to the appendix, but location is only a clue and how pain changes with meals, movement, gas, and pressure also matters. There are several factors to consider; see below for details on localized versus widespread pain, visceral sensitivity, tracking triggers, and simple ways to ease mild symptoms. Seek prompt care for severe or worsening pain, fever, persistent vomiting, black or bloody stools, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fainting or dizziness, pain in pregnancy, or pain that wakes you, and use the guidance below to decide when to speak to a doctor.
References:
* Aziz Q. Patterns of visceral pain in gastrointestinal disorders. Pain. 2019 Feb;160 Suppl 1:S16-S22.
* Nangia V, Kilaru H, Kularatna M, Vong G, Anstey J, Bhatia P, Bhatia R. Acute Abdominal Pain: An Evidence-Based Approach to Diagnosis. Med Clin North Am. 2017 Mar;101(2):297-313.
* Cartwright SL, Knudson MP. Evaluation of the Adult With Acute Abdominal Pain. Am Fam Physician. 2018 Apr 15;97(8):509-515.
* Arendt-Nielsen L, Yarnitsky D. Referred Pain: Mechanism and Management. Pain Res Manag. 2016;2016:9584285.
* Liddell R, Buttolph J, Khashab MA. Diagnostic Accuracy of Clinical Features in Acute Abdominal Pain: A Systematic Review. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2016 Jan;50(1):19-30.
Q.
Digestive symptoms worsening during periods
A.
Digestive symptoms that worsen around your period are common and usually driven by hormone shifts, prostaglandins, and mild inflammation, causing bloating, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or reflux. There are several factors to consider, including flares of IBS or endometriosis and red flags that warrant medical care, so see the complete guidance below for specific relief tips, what to track, and when to talk to a doctor.
References:
* Bharadwaj S, Barto AD, Barto RM, Skjefte KL, Moeser AJ. Gastrointestinal symptoms related to the menstrual cycle: A systematic review. J Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2023 Jul 30;29(3):333-356. doi: 10.5056/jnm22165. Epub 2023 Apr 28. PMID: 37117144; PMCID: PMC10390299. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37117144/
* Liu S, Deng M, Wan F, Yu Y, Lu Y, Zhao H, Li J, Xia J, Zhang X. Premenstrual syndrome and functional gastrointestinal disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023 May 10;14:1174959. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1174959. PMID: 37242171; PMCID: PMC10210217. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242171/
* Bharadwaj S, Barto AD, Barto RM, Moeser AJ. Menstruation and functional gastrointestinal disorders. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2023 Feb 1;30(1):15-20. doi: 10.1097/MED.0000000000000780. Epub 2022 Dec 15. PMID: 36728345; PMCID: PMC9951664. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36728345/
* Moosavizadeh SM, Mohebbi R, Falahzade MH, Mozaffari S. The impact of the menstrual cycle on irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review. J Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2021 Jul 30;27(3):360-369. doi: 10.5056/jnm20176. Epub 2021 May 20. PMID: 34015822; PMCID: PMC8290333. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34015822/
* Mulak A, Tache Y, Larauche M. Sex differences in irritable bowel syndrome: The role of gonadal hormones. World J Gastroenterol. 2014 Dec 14;20(46):17724-33. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i46.17724. PMID: 25516709; PMCID: PMC4265882. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25516709/
Q.
Is left upper abdominal pain after eating something to be concerned about?
A.
Left upper abdominal pain after eating could be a concern, especially if it persists or worsens over time. It may be related to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or other digestive issues.
References:
Corsetti M, & Whorwell PJ. (2015). Managing irritable bowel syndrome in primary care. The Practitioner, 26455114.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26455114/
Senadhi V. (2010). A rare cause of chronic mesenteric ischemia from .... Journal of medical case reports, 21092091.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21092091/
Riley TR 3rd, & Koch K. (2003). Characteristics of upper abdominal pain in those with .... Digestive diseases and sciences, 14627332.
Q.
Can I drink coffee while taking stomach medicine?
A.
Drinking coffee while taking stomach medicine may affect your stomach because coffee can increase stomach acid and affect the esophagus. It is important to consult with your doctor about your specific situation. See below to understand more.
References:
Nehlig A. (2022). Effects of Coffee on the Gastro-Intestinal Tract: A Narrative .... Nutrients, 35057580.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35057580/
Lohsiriwat S, Puengna N, & Leelakusolvong S. (2006). Effect of caffeine on lower esophageal sphincter pressure .... Diseases of the esophagus : official journal of the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus, 16722996.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16722996/
Al Shboul S, Maloul O, Al-Trad H, Maloul Y, AlHarahsheh W, Mosallam D, et al. (2024). Self-Reported Gastrointestinal Symptoms Associated with .... Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 39336561.
Q.
Can I stop PPI suddenly?
A.
It's not recommended to stop proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) suddenly. Gradually reducing the dose may help prevent symptoms from coming back. See below to understand more.
References:
Kurlander JE, Kennedy JK, Rubenstein JH, Richardson CR, Krein SL, De Vries R, & Saini SD. (2019). Patients' Perceptions of Proton Pump Inhibitor Risks and .... The American journal of gastroenterology, 30694867.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30694867/
Wehmeyer MH, Horvatits T, Buchholz A, Krause L, Walter S, Zapf A, et al. (2022). Stop of proton-pump inhibitor treatment in patients with .... Trials, 35414106.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35414106/
Coyle C, Symonds R, Allan J, Dawson S, Russell S, Smith A, et al. (2019). Sustained proton pump inhibitor deprescribing among .... BJGP open, 31581112.
Q.
Can I take omeprazole long-term?
A.
Long-term use of omeprazole can be safe for some people, but it may come with risks. It's important to talk to a doctor about your specific situation. See below to understand more.
References:
Klinkenberg-Knol EC, Nelis F, Dent J, Snel P, Mitchell B, Prichard P, et al. (2000). efficacy, safety, and influence on gastric mucosa. Gastroenterology, 10734017.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10734017/
Koyyada A. (2021). Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors as a risk factor for .... Therapie, 32718584.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32718584/
Attwood SE, Ell C, Galmiche JP, Fiocca R, Hatlebakk JG, Hasselgren B, et al. (2015). Long-term safety of proton pump inhibitor therapy .... Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 25858519.
Q.
Do PPIs affect calcium absorption?
A.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) might reduce calcium absorption in some cases, but the evidence is mixed, and more research is needed. See below to understand more.
References:
Hansen KE, Jones AN, Lindstrom MJ, Davis LA, Ziegler TE, Penniston KL, et al. (2010). Do proton pump inhibitors decrease calcium absorption?. Journal of bone and mineral research : the official journal of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, 20578215.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20578215/
Wright MJ, Sullivan RR, Gaffney-Stomberg E, Caseria DM, O'Brien KO, Proctor DD, et al. (2010). Inhibiting gastric acid production does not affect intestinal .... Journal of bone and mineral research : the official journal of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, 20499372.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20499372/
Yang YX. (2012). Chronic proton pump inihibitor therapy and calcium metabolism. Current gastroenterology reports, 23054811.
Q.
Does PPI use increase risk of infection?
A.
Using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of certain infections, especially in the stomach and intestines. See below to understand more.
References:
Bavishi C, & Dupont HL. (2011). the use of proton pump inhibitors and increased susceptibility .... Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 21999643.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21999643/
Moayyedi P, & Leontiadis GI. (2012). The Risks of PPI Therapy. Nature reviews. Gastroenterology & hepatology, 22330810.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22330810/
Jaynes M, & Kumar AB. (2019). The risks of long-term use of proton pump inhibitors. Therapeutic advances in drug safety, 31019676.
Q.
Why should I take PPI before meals?
A.
Taking a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) before meals helps it work better to reduce stomach acid. See below to understand more.
References:
Hatlebakk JG, Katz PO, Camacho-Lobato L, & Castell DO. (2000). better acid suppression when taken before a meal than .... Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 11012470.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11012470/
Gunaratnam NT, Jessup TP, Inadomi J, & Lascewski DP. (2006). Sub-optimal proton pump inhibitor dosing is prevalent in .... Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics, 16669962.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16669962/
Solem C, Mody R, Stephens J, Macahilig C, & Gao X. (2014). Mealtime-related dosing directions for proton-pump .... Journal of the American Pharmacists Association : JAPhA, 24632930.
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