How do I manage abdominal pain with GERD and ulcers?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing pain in my abdomen below the ribs and on my sides at the hips. I feel this pain especially when I sleep lying on my stomach or on the side, mostly on the right side. I have a history of GERD, acid reflux, and duodenal ulcers. I underwent an endoscopy last year. While I have had symptoms of acid reflux on and off, the abdominal pain has been persisting for the past two months, and it is bothering me a lot.

What do you suggest?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Please share your endoscopy report from last year.

Are you mostly consuming home-cooked meals or eating out frequently?
Are you currently taking acid suppression medicine such as PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors)?
Have you ever been tested for your H. pylori status?

I suggest you follow the below-mentioned precautions:

Avoid overeating and always leave about 20 to 25 percent of your stomach empty by opting for frequent small meals.
After meals, refrain from lying down or sitting immediately; instead, take a short walk for five to 10 minutes.
Have your dinner approximately three hours before going to bed.
Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
Take acid suppression medicine like Pantoprazole 40 mg half an hour before breakfast for two weeks (if recommended by your doctor).
If you have never been checked for H. pylori, consider getting tested.
Minimize eating out and reduce alcohol consumption if applicable.
Refrain from using painkillers, especially NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), unless prescribed by your healthcare provider.

I hope this has helped you.

Kindly follow up with the requested information.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

I have reviewed your reports you attached (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). Your weight is contributing to fatty liver as well. The previous endoscopy indicated not only H. pylori-induced gastritis but also a lax gastroesophageal junction, which is the reason for your reflux symptoms. The key is to make lifestyle modifications from now onwards, such as weight reduction, regular walks, and increased physical activity. Aim for around 10 to 15 percent weight reduction within one year, as this will help improve all the issues related to your stomach, including reflux, fatty liver, and abdominal pain.

I hope this has helped you.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Your age is just 34; it is not a lifelong limitation to eating out. Avoid it for a while, perhaps a couple of weeks or two weeks. Once stable, you can have meals outside like a normal person. Just keep in mind, you have to burn extra calories to lose weight. Please let me know if you need any further assistance.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.

Answer 4

Hi

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

A sedentary lifestyle can explain all of the above symptoms. You need to engage in good physical activity, and your stomach symptoms will likely improve with acid suppression medication. Intermittent fasting is beneficial, but it is best to avoid junk food.

Let me know if you need any further help.

Thank you.

.

Answer 5

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I hope my answer has helped you. Wishing you good health.

Kindly follow up with the requested information.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.