What is the reason for stomach cramps, pain, and heartburn?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been having stomach cramps and pain for about a week now. The pain is there for most of the time. It seems to get worse when I eat and I have heartburn. I had a history of problems associated with gynecology and fertility. I am currently taking the medication Naproxen.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

It seems you may be having gastritis or even a stomach ulcer. The most common cause of abdominal pain related to meals is peptic ulcer disease. In peptic ulcer disease, the pain could be worse without food or worse when you eat. May I ask if the pain is burning in nature and triggered by spicy meals? Also, are your stools dark and tarry? The drug Naproxen is known to trigger peptic ulcers when used excessively or for a long period of time. I advise you to meet your prescriber for an alternative pain relief medication. Investigations you can carry out to diagnose a peptic ulcer include a Helicobacter pylori antigen or antibody test as well as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Treatments include antibiotics to eradicate H.pylori as well as a proton pump inhibitor which is a drug used to reduce stomach acid. In the meantime, you can take an over-the-counter antacid such as tablet Tums (Calcium carbonate) which can relieve your symptoms.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always come back and reach me at icliniq.com.