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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Alcohol and upset stomach
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Alcohol and upset stomach
by mcw2, Feb 19, 2007 12:00AM
I am a male 32 years old. 5'11" and 200lbs. Any time I consume more than 3 drinks of alcohol (any type) in an evening, I have an extremely upset stomach the following day. The symptoms include: nausea (lightheadedness),fatigue, shortness of breath, gas, stomach churning, bloating, constipation and or diarrhea. The episode lasts around 24 hours. This did not begin to occur until about 9 months ago. I typically have 2 glasses of wine a night with more on the weekends. I have had an endoscopy, (normal results with mild gastritis). CT scan of the abdomin (normal), full blood work, (normal with the exception of a slightly elevated liver enzyme.) In researching this problem, I have found that my symptoms most closely resemble Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Any ideas on how to prevent and or treat this sensation, other than the obvious decrease in consumption of alcohol?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Feb 20, 2007 12:00AM
, Feb 20, 2007 12:00AM
The gastritis that was diagnosed can lead to your symptoms. The upper endoscopy has already been done - which is a pretty comprehensive test. You may also want to consider blood tests to look for H Pylori - which is sometimes associated with gastritis. Antibiotic therapy to treat this would help with the symptoms.
As for IBS, this can be considered if other causes have been ruled out. Increasing the fiber in the diet is the normal initial treatment. If the symptoms continue, antidepressant therapy, antibiotics (like Rifaximin) and antispasmodic agents can all be tried.
These options should be discussed with your personal physician, or in conjunction with a gastroenterologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
As for IBS, this can be considered if other causes have been ruled out. Increasing the fiber in the diet is the normal initial treatment. If the symptoms continue, antidepressant therapy, antibiotics (like Rifaximin) and antispasmodic agents can all be tried.
These options should be discussed with your personal physician, or in conjunction with a gastroenterologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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