Should I ask for more testing?

I am a 30 yr old male with a concerning stomach issue.  I got hit pretty hard with a stomach type bug about a week ago. (stomach ache, diarrhea, chills, etc.)  That mostly passed quickly as it normally does except for a few things.  I am continuing to have diarrhea off and on, my appetite is still small, and my stomach basically churns and growls all day long more or less.  I have noticed that the growling seems to stop when I lay on my side.  Is that weird?

I have not vomitted, nor have I seen any blood in my stools.  Yesterday, I did take a full dose of Zoloft which I have not taken in a year and that may have caused my diarrhea to be worse yesterday.

Here are my main concerns.  I worry a lot by nature because I am an airline pilot and my job revolves around my health.  I am an only child, and there is no cancer history in my parents.  My mother however, did lose a sister (age 750) to colon cancer.  I have also seen many young people with it on these forums.  My GP is having me do an upper GI tomorrow.  Is this sufficient?  I hate to push things at my Dr. but I dont want to ignore something that may be cured early.  Also, how common is stomach cancer at my age?  ( I do not smoke or drink)

I realize in advance of your answer that there are a lot of confitions that cause my symptoms, but I am just trying to worry a little less while I wait to get tests done.

Thank you in advance for your answer.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

An upper GI series is a reasonable first test - it can help identify things like ulcers or GERD which can cause the symptoms.  As for stomach cancer, it would be unlikely in your age - the upper GI series can identify large masses.

If the symptoms continue, the upper endoscopy is the more comprehensive test and can be considered if the upper GI series is non-revealing.  

I would also consider a blood test for H Pylori - a bacteria associated with inflammation or ulcers.  If positive, this can be treated with antibiotics.

You may want to discuss these options 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.
Medical Weblog:
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