pain in upper stomache with gas

[Bob56]

I am a 49 yr. old male; 6ft. 330#. About 10 yrs ago I had my gallbladder removed. I have had intermittant mild to moderate indegestion for my adult life. About 1 month ago I began having some pain, mostly while laying down, that was somewhat similiar to the pain that I had with my diseased gallbladder. While not as severe, the pain is mostly in the upper center stomache region with some pain passing through my back. This has not occurred every night, maybe 6 times in a month. Last couple of nights have been worse with little sleep, pain more constant and not relieved with antacids. I also have had extreme flatuance with this latest episode. Do you think that change in diet alone (I am a moderate beer drinker, about 4 per week, maybe once a week binge with 5 or 6 beers, and I still eat food that is fried and fatty to much) may be all that is needed to remedy this problem? If the probelm goes away in a timely fashion with life style changes would it mean that a more serious probelm with my digestive systom does not exist? THank you for any info, Regards, Bob.

[A. Freeman]

Our daughter, age 32, has both type 1 and type 2 dibetes.  She suffers from very bad smells plus pain in her stomach.  We have take her to see a Gastro, Endo Dr. also seen a nutritionist. She started off at 258 lbs and now is down to 88 lbs.  she continues to lose weight and suffers so much.  wE HAVE NO CLUES
where to turn next for her.

[CSectionPro]

I have a strong suggestion: Go to the nearest grocery store and purchase Raspberry Tea go home and make it and drink it plain cold or warm 2 x a day. I promise your prayers will be answers after the first couple of cups. Good Luck!

[Bob56]

Hi Nyn,
Felt awesome, if a bit groggy most of the day, then about 2 hours ago staring having mild discomfort while sitting and standing. Some what perplexing. I saw my Internist yesterday, he thinks that it is GERD and perscribed Prilosec and I have scheduled an appointment with a Gastro doc. I didn't start the Prilosec this morning as I felt so good. Maybe tomorrow if this persists tonight. Good luck with your situation, Bob.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Diet may affect the symptoms depending on the cause.  

Various upper GI disorders can lead to the symptoms you are describing.  This can include an ulcer, inflammation of the upper digestive tract, GERD, or Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction.  If the cause continues to be non-revealing, irritable bowel can also be considered.

I would start evaluate with an upper GI series and/or an upper endoscopy.  More specialized testing, including a 24-hr pH study or Sphincter of Oddi manometry can be considered if the cause is not clear.  

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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_

[Nyneve]

Bob,

Whatever it is, you're not alone! For about three years I've had the same problem. I wake up in the afternoon (sleep days)and it hurts to breathe. I thought it was my back at first, but then I realized it was coming from my stomach. I spoke to my doctor about it, and he did liver functions tests and many other blood test. He also did an ultrasound of my upper abdomen. Nothing showed up. He gave me meds for IBS and constipation. The only thing that has helped me at all, is not sleeping for more than 3 or 4 hours at a time. If I wake up within that time period to go to the bathroom or whatever reason then I'm usually ok. I'm sorry I can't give you any other advice. I just thought that if more than one person commented on the same problem then it might get a little more attention. Hopefully they'll give us both some answers.

Nyn