'Sensitive' Stomach?

[missingsomething]

Hello all, I'm turning 16 this year and I've been having abdominal problems for a year and a half already. The abdominal problems started in 2006 after I had a terrible gastric pain/diarrhoea. It happened when I was out. I wasn't feeling well and I never felt that way before. I boarded a bus then felt very nauseous after some time. I remembered I had to alight from the bus 4 times to find a washroom. Anyway, two weeks later from that day, I started having abdominal discomforts 3 to 4 times weekly. Abdominal discomforts included gastric pains and diarrhoea. Then later on, after around 3 to 4 months, the abdominal discomforts were felt everyday. Later on, it became a few times daily. Now, I'm still having the problem.

Last year in July I think, I had a Urea Breath Test and it turned out negative. I was told that I probably have a sensitive stomach. I was recommended to take Gaviscon or Mylanta when necessary. So, I bought Gaviscon tablets and took them when my gastric pain/heartburn/acid reflux was bad or annoying. I got sick of taking them everytime and stopped.

I'm still having those problems now and I really don't know what is it. Basically, what I feel is:
1) Like 'bubbles' at the abdomen, around diaphragm. Then I may press that area to ease that feeling.
2) Churning acid or contents in the stomach (this happened everyday and it makes some annoying sounds most of the time.)
3) Burning sensation
4) Keep swallowing saliva or drinking water cause I keep feeling there's something stuck in the throat. Or not, I'd try to cough whatever it is out but nothing that looks like phlegm comes out. Most of the time, a colourless mucus (?) comes out instead. I don't know how to describe. It's just kind of sticky.

That's all I can remember for now. I'm very curious as to why I'm experiencing this everyday. >< And anyone knows what's a 'sensitive' stomach? Thank you.

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi missingsomething,
The symptoms you have mentioned point towards peptic ulcer disease/GERD.

I would suggest the following tests for you.

1. Upper GI endoscopy
2. 24 hours pH monitoring

Till then you can take PPI along with some life style modifications.

Life style modifications -
1. Head elevation while sleeping
2. Small frequent meals
3. Going to bed 2- 3 hours after food
4. Avoiding bed time snacks
5. Avoiding smoking and alcohol
6. Avoiding tight fitting clothes
7. Avoiding cola, citrus drinks, carbonated drinks, tea, coffee, spicy food
8. Weight reduction
================================================================
The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.
- Ratnakar Kini M.D.

[missingsomething]

Thank you so much for the information.

I'll take note of those life style modifications.

I was given Pariet 20mg tablets today by my cousin (a gastroenterologist). I was told to take one tablet a day before meal only when I have an upset stomach. I have not tried it yet.

Once again, thank you.