Long term stomach problem

[curiousgeorge0]

I've had stomach problems as long as I can remember but they seem to be getting worse.  I never had major testing because of lack of medical insurance.  I feel like I can't stand it anymore.  I've had allergy testing done and I'm not allergic to any foods.  I know I'm lactose intolerant so I stay away from dairy.  I often feel very full and distented.  My stomach is very painful even to light pressure, I often have to sleep on my side.  As soon as I eat, I feel very full and constantly burp.  I often have nausea, alot of gas, a loud/bubbly stomach and a stomach ache.  I don't have reflux.  I have bowel movements daily, often several times a day usually with an immediate urgency.  My stools are most often loose with no shape but not diarrhea.  Recently in the last year they are often very thin like a pencil. Although I do go daily most often, it can be very in small amounts.  I often have mucous in my stool.  I can go from loose stool to constipation in a matter of a day but usually don't feel constipated.  My meal sizes don't matter nor does the food I eat unless its dairy.  I'm always tired, foggy headed, have headaches and feel lousy, like I have the flu or something.  The only thing that makes me feel better sometimes is not eating.  I tried logging my foods to see if I pin point something but I can't seem to find anything besides dairy.  Thank you for your help!  

[curiousgeorge0]

Thank you for your help!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I think it's time to undergo some testing, especially if the symptoms are continuing or worsening.

An upper GI series or upper endoscopy would be the most reasonable tests to consider.  They can evaluate for ulcers, GERD, or inflammation of the stomach or esophagus.

Blood tests can also be done to exclude a bacteria known as H pylori, which can be associated with ulcers or inflammation.

Chronic loose bowel movements need to be evaluated for inflammatory bowel disease or colitis.  A colonoscopy, as well as stool studies, can be done as an initial evaluation.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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 Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd