Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => Other Health Discussion => Topic started by: Jeepers on April 08, 2018, 09:47:40 AM
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Hi all
I don't even know how to start this, just looking for anyone who can relate and offer some advice?
Two weeks ago, I had an acute anxiety attack.. so much so that I was trembling for an hour afterwards. The next day I felt fine, but towards the end of the day I had a pain under my left lower ribs, as if I had been kicked. I also had pain and burning across my upper abdo, and behind my sternum.
After a few days I started taking some Omeprazole for 6 days, and the symptoms did ease a lot. My appetite was reduced though. Feeling better I stopped the tablets, and for a few days I felt okay, but now the symptoms are starting up again. Not the rib pain, but nausea, bloating, burning and general pain in the stomach area.
I am trying hard to stay calm, but I just feel worried that the symptoms have come back, and that means there is a more sinister reason for my stomach being this way, other than Gastritis.
If anyone has any thoughts or experience I would be sooo grateful to hear it?
Thank you
Jeepers xx
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OK - gastric issues are common when meno hits, particularly excess acid, so you need to manage this with dietary changes. This type of discomfort is often as a result of taking NSAIDs e.g. Ibuprofen or aspirin so you mustn't ever take these again.
I have to avoid PPIs as they have given me so many problems. PPIs like Omeprazole stops the stomach acid that digests your food. If you have got an ulcer then PPIs will allow it to heal but taking any PPI for too long will lead to long term health issues. The problem is, when you stop taking the PPIs, the body will often over compensate and produce more acid, so symptoms return and it takes time for the balance to return.
I have now been diagnosed with IBS because the PPIs mucked up my whole digestive system and IBS is of course one of those terms for something the doctors don't know what to do about but is very common. Excess acid and Acid reflux, which gives the dull ache across the upper abdomen, usually result in GPs dishing out the PPIs without warning that they can have long term consequences. You can now even buy PPIs at the supermarket which I think is crazy!!!!!!
To reduce the acid and abdominal burning, I now take digestive enzymes before eating (you can get good ones online but BEANO is the best). I take probiotics when I feel my digestive system is out of balance (PPIs like Omeprazole will unbalance things). Eat very small meals often to reduce the acid. Eat slowly and chew everything well. Eat a banana everyday between meals and drink lots of water. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and fruit juices. Try peppermint capsules and take a couple of gaviscon about 20 mins after a meal.
If you do get ongoing and difficult pain then you do need to go to the GP and a short course of PPIs may be necessary.
DG x
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Hi Dancinggirl
thank you for replying, its a relief to know that this is probably a meno & anxiety thing (my sister in law died of stomach cancer, so that's a big fear for me).
sorry to hear that omeprazole has caused you problems -- IBS is horrible my daughter has it. How long did you tale the PPIs for? I stopped after days, but I have to admit to taking one today, as I was feeling so rubbish. Maybe I overloaded my recovering stomach too much yesterday. I met a friend for tea and cake, and the cake was really, really sweet and massive! I felt sick after eating it. Then I went out for dinner and had fish pie with vegetables and a diet coke. Maybe too much too soon.
Today I have had an egg on seeded toast, a small glass of keffir (does this count as probiotic?)and , after reading your post, a banana . I have had some tea and coffee, but I only drink decaff. I also have some peppermint tea, so maybe I'll try that too?
I do admit to being a very fast eater too... I need to work on that.
Thank you again, its so nice to be able to talk to people who understand
:thankyou:
Jeepers xx
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You making some good choices but just cut the amount you eat at once. I'm aftaid even decaffienated drinks will be acidic and fizzy drinks with artificial sugar are also not good. Cake has a lot of fat and fatty foods will increase acid in the stomach.
Kaffir is very good.
Take it easy. DG x
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Eat little and often.
Keep a mood/food/symptom diary.
Stop the Omeprazole and try Rennies as necessary. Gentler on the gut. I find when reflux begins if I chew 2 then symptoms ease, sometimes I need 3. If I'm laying down in bed it is worse. As it's usually at the same time of early morning I know it's not a heart condition.
Omeprazole is OK for 2-3 weeks but shouldn't be taken long term as it brings it's own problems. Read Dr James le Fanu in the Monday Telegraph pages ;)
I by-pass decaff ;D and don't drink coffee as it makes me feel sick quite quickly.
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Hi,
Thanks for your advice, it all makes sense. I will try the Rennies. I have mostly stuck to drinking water today, but I did have a cup of tea at my Mums (I don't want to worry her with my problems).
I will just stick to the Rennies then, and see how that goes. I did read that article, and it is a bit worrying. I have only taken 7 so hopefully I haven;t done any damage. I will keep up with the Kaffir too (oddly, I actually like the taste of it).
It would be really hard for me to give up tea and coffee completely, but I will cut down, and try to have peppermint tea more.
I have a doctors appointment tomorrow, so we will see what he says.
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I'll be interested to know how you get on with GP as I am suffering my third bout of symptoms you describe. Always starts with a trapped wind feeling under my left lower ribs then goes around my back at same level, then I get intermittent gurgling/burning through abdomen. I suffer from awful anxiety and feel sure that is the cause, but it can last months before i'm Right again. I need something to distract me from it and break the cycle, but am really struggling this time and considering an AD.
Let us know how you get on.
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Hi rebel
Yes, of course I will. I followed your thread, how are you feeling now? I think it is linked to the anxiety too. I had a bit of a meltdown a couple of weeks ago, and it all started the next day. I have been feeling much calmer, but I think the damage was already done. What is an AD?
This anxiety thing is the worst aspect of meno by a long way. I am divorced, and have no-one to talk to mostly, so I feel really isolated. I also feel ashamed to admit to anyone how I am.
On the plus side, this site is an absolute god send, with lots of lovely ladies gicving advice and support. TBH its the only thing keeping me going right now (apart from the thought ogf my lovely kids)
Take care
Jeepers xxx
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I'm struggling at the moment to be honest. I have had external stress that built up and probably caused this attack, but it's gone now so I'm frustrated that I can't overcome it now.
I find if I go out, relax and don't think about it, it goes away, but I tend to obsess about any symptoms and ‘scan' for them incessantly. I'm fairly sure nothing is seriously wrong with me, but i've obviously really upset my stomach now.
ADs are anti-depressants - i've taken them before but don't really like them but am now desperate for an end to this miserable and constant anxious state.
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Where's the stomach situated?
Taking omeprazole won't do any harm but in the long term, may cause the gut to forget how to produce the acid it requires for digestion. I can feel reflex background now ...... if I feel it prior to eating I chew a Rennie B4 the meal.
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Hi all
CKLD, I'm not sure what you are asking? I mean we all know where our stomachs are, so is it something else?
Anyway, I went to the doctors yesterday, he had a feel of my tummy asked some questions and said that he agrees that it is likely to be gastritis, but arranged for me to have some blood tests too. One of the tests was for the h.pylori, but I didn't think that was a blood test? It was on a separate sheet too, so I am wondering if it was just missed by the nurse? Anyway, he has given me some more Omeprazole, but it is 20mg rather than the 10mg you buy over the counter. I will take them for 28 days, and hopefully that will allow my stomach to heal. I still need to be careful about what I eat, as it feels "delicate", and I do get nausea at times. The blood tests will take a week, and I am just hoping they all come back clear and there is nothing more serious going on.
The doctor was very nice, and we talked a little bit about my anxiety. He asked if I had tried medication for it, and when I told him that I was scared of medicines, he gor me a referral to a counselor in a couple of weeks. so, I will try that first. I cant go on like this in a constant state of dread, thats for sure.
Lastly (and not related to this thread), I plucked up the courage to ask him for some Vagifem, and he agreed straight away, and was sooo kind. He said straight away that the amount of hormones in it is very very small about the same as taking 2 pills a year, and he also prescribed my some replens as well, as he thought it would be good. I felt really lifted coming out of the surgery with that script in my hand!
rebel, I know exactly how you feel, I am the same. And with all of the aches and pains it makes it a scary time. I really hope that the counseling can help me to break the cycle. As soon as I am reassured about one thing, something comes along to take its place. It is exhausting isn't it? I do find it helpful to talk on here though,
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Very positive but not sure if you will get counselling in a couple of weeks, unless you went Private? It can take 6-9 months to wait for counselling. A family member of mine waited nearly a year!
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I have no idea where my stomach is :-\ - when I have what is known as 'stomach' upsets, I don't feel ill there but further down, around my belly button .......
I think that the stomach is below the left rib so if someone has a feeling of heaviness in that region could it be attributed to the stomach?
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This can be helpful https://anatomical.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/digestive-system-of-woman-photos-human-digestive-system-woman-human-anatomy-diagram.jpg
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Poor girl. No uterus, bladder or vagina ::)
Tnx. How do you feel now?
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Hi all
thanks for the replies.
I have got an NHS appointment for 24/04, so it must depend on the llocal area? I am lucky and grateful .
Looking at the diagram I can say it is definitely the stomach area (only other thing it could be is the liver, but the burning makes me sure it is stomach) . I did panic when I saw the salivery glands, as I have had discomfort in exactly these areas. Anxiety is rubbish isn't it? I am trying to calm myself down by thinking it is just a side effect of the PPI, and if it was something terrible, it would be there all the time, not come and go.
I have had one of my blood tests back, it was normal (sigh of relief). I need to look up which one it was. The others wont be in until Friday/
Sparkle, how long have you had your digestive problems? Sorry to hear you suffer too,. Mine is now 2 and a half weeks, and I just want to be better, its making me feel like I will never get better.
Even with the PPI I still have to be very careful with what I eat and drink, nausea never seems very far away .. :'(
Jeepers
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The bills tests they did were:
Amylase (serum)
Full Blood Count
Ferritin
Liver Function tests
Creatine & aelectrolytes
H.pylori
I think the one that came back was the ferritin, but she called it something else.
Jeepers x
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Oh Jeepers, I feel your pain! I am on my third bout of this stomach problem in two years. I am pretty sure it is stress related as each bout has come after a serious period of stress/anxiety. It appears to last longer each time - almost as if I lose a little bit more of the ability to rationalise each time, and as each 'cure' [like cutting out caffeine/running/yoga/distraction] loses a little of its efficacy -making me lose faith that I will ever get better.
I have a very big work thing tomorrow and have been worried for weeks - hoping that it goes well and I get some calm. It is the type of thing my sensible/rational self loves, but my anxiety-monster is ruining it for me...
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Hi all
Rebel, are you on any meds? Do they help? I know what you mean.. its been 3 weeks now, and I just have this dread that it will never goo away.
I rang the doctors today, and they said he blood results are back, but the doctor has not yet, reviewed or commented on them, so I have to ring back on Monday.
sparkle, it must be hard ti cope with it for so long.
Jeppers xx
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Hi Sparkle
I hope the wedding went well, and you were able to enjoy it. I don't know which part of the country you are in, but the weather in the Cotswolds was glorious yesterday,
Jeepers xx
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Glad you had a nice time at the wedding Sparkle, even if you couldn't eat the meal. Hopefully the docs will come up with a plan for you soon.
I had the loveliest of days in Sunday. I went to a new exercise class (new at my gym anyway) called Barre, based on ballet moves, then I had a nice coffee date, that's looking promising ;). Then I went to meet my new great nephew, who is gorgeous.
Yesterday, I felt positive for the first time in ages, quite ebullient actually, and felt like I might be on the mend, and I was on top f the anxiety until the pains came at 3pm. Maybe it was my fault for having tea and biscuits? I'm still on the omeprazole, which is making it feel better, but not yet 100%,
I got all of my blood tests back, and they were all normal , and negative for h.pylori. I'm not sure if I am supposed to go back to the doctors or just see how things go with the PPI's? I have been thinking (worrying) about that, and have been considering reducing to 10mg after 2 weeks, then if that's okay, to 10mg every other day after a week. So I don't just stop suddenly.
I have today bought myself some coconut water and some ginger and turmeric tea bags to try to steer clear of tea and coffee. Sugary things seem to be a trigger for me too.
I really want to kick this into touch.
Still haven't plucked up the courage to use the Vagifem!
Jeepers x
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Do be aware that long-term use of Omeprazole can cause problems ......... they can alter the gut flora which brings along other issues. [read Dr James le Fanu's articles in the Telegraph]
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Oh CLKD, I am aware, and it is fueling my anxiety :'(
that's why I have decided to start cutting down after 2 weeks. The GP gave me a 28 day course at 20mg, so I thought I would start reducing after 2 weeks.
I am also drinking Keffir every day, to try to keep my digestive system on the right path. Its so hard to know what to do for the best.
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Hi
Yes, that sounds like a good idea. I don't think it would be easy to get hold of my GP, but through my medical insurance, I have phone access to a GP. I could ring them up and explain everything, and tell them my proposed plan.
today has been a good day, just a couple of really minor , mild/burning and pain. So hoping that I am definitely going in the right direction.
I have bought myself some D Lux vit D & K2 spray, as I have not taken my vit D tablets for weeks now. I have ordered myself some enzymes too :-)
Now, I need to start with the Vagifem! I nearly did yesterday, but then I read the leaflet.
:sigh:
Jeepers x
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I read the Vagifem leaflet again earlier this week - it's awful - the same info as you get with systemic HRT - so really not appropriate. They are basically covering their arses - sorry about the language.
Use the Vagifem Jeepers - it's vital to keep urogenital atrophy at bay and will DO LOTS OF GOOD.
DG x
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I NEVER read the leaflets 'cos they cover everything from difficult lambing births to un-blocking a loo ::) ........
USE THE VAGIFEM ;D ............ my GP prescribed Ovestin which is similar and my symptoms have been controlled. It was like razor blades up there :-\ >:( but after 3/4 nights of use, symptoms ease ;-).
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Hi
Thanks, I did use the Vagifem last night. I don't know what I expected to happen/... die in the night? Wake up with flowers sprouting from my vagina?? :lol:
needless to say, I woke up this morning and nothing had changed!
I spoke to the GP on the phone, and he convinced me to finish the course, so I will persevere. After a chat, I have stopped drinking hot drinks, as this seemed to be a factor in getting pains. I have been drinking either tepid , or cold water, except for my Keffir and some coconut water. Today hasn't been bad, just some ultra mild pain, but no burning, so hopefully going in the right direction.
Other news is that I have an appointment in June at a private meno clinic. I am really nervous about that, as I really am not sure if I want to go down the HRT route at all..
Jeepers xx
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Jeepers - the appointment at the meno clinic will not be about ‘making' you go on HRT - it's a chance for you to have a talk with a specialist in an unhurried way. Write out all your symptoms and questions, print stuff off from this site to aid discussion and ask them to look at you holistically and give you clear options to consider. Ask them to explain the pros and cons to their suggestions. I find writing things down really stops me feeling nervous or anxious at doctors appointment. After the appointment you can come to this forum for more objective support if need be. You are welcome to message me if you want. DG x
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Hi all
Just thought I would update this.
So, I decided to cut to 10mg od Omeprazole yesterday, which I did, and had no problems other than the odd twinge. Then yesterday, I had to work overnight and when I got in I slept til 10 am, and completely forgot to take my PPI. So, today, I have been PPI free and so far, it is no worse than when I took them. I am still being careful with my diet, but if this continues I will be really pleased. Not sure how long before I can be sure I have no "rebound", but fingers crossed. IT wasn't my intention to stop yet, but now I have, I want to see if I can stay off them.
Yesterday, I had my first counselling session, and it went well. I m going to be doing CBT, and I have also been signed up for a mindfullness course, which is great, I feel quite positive that I am doing something about my anxiety. The course also looks at self esteem and self appreciation, so I think that might help too.
I have seen a chiropractor about my shoulder, and am having treatment for the problem I have in that area too.
So, all in all, feeling better than I have in ages, like I am taking control and doing something.
Oh, and I forgot to take my Vagifem as well after working all night, but hopefully that doesn't matter too much. I have just realised I am supposed to be doing the replens as well, but I haven't started that yet.
Thanks for all the advice and support, I am so grateful,
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Good news Jeepers, long may it last!
I am, I hope, also getting a bit better. Due at GP in a while, new practice to me so am hopeful, although worried about doc ‘finding something', which is starting to turn my stomach. My major issue now is the bladder ache, but have to admit that it's not an issue when I'm truly distracted.
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Jeepers - that all sounds so positive. It won't matter missing the Vagifem for one night and you will probably be moving to 2 times a week soon anyway. The Replens should be used at the same time as the Vagifem or it may effect absorption of the Vagifem - use the Replens before bed on a night when you don't use Vagifem.
You are being so proactive - keep going and keep us posted. DG x
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Hi
Thanks for the replies :-)
Okay, thanks for the info Dancinggirl, I'll do the replens when I drop down to twice weekly.
What do people generally do when they run out of Vagifem? Do I have to go back to the doctors? Or could I get a repeat prescription set up via a nurse? I've never done a repeat prescription before
I am still feeling much better on the gastritis, almost back to normal. The only thing I have at the moment is cracks at the corners of my mouth. Do you think this could be caused by the Omeprazole not allowing enough vitamins and minerals to be absorbed over the last few weeks? If so, maybe I should take a multi vit for a while? Has anyone else had this experience? I
Thank you all so much
Jeepers xxx
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Jeepers, you would need to get your GP to authorize the repeat prescription. Perhaps this could be done with a telephone appointment to save you having to turn up in person.
Cracks at the corners of the mouth might be due to deficiency in B vitamins or iron. I couldn't say if Omeprazole would have affected absorption but wouldn't be at all surprised. It would be best to buy separate B complex and iron supplements rather than a multivitamin, as the latter are not so effective. If you can eat something that contains vitamin C when you take the iron, this will help absorption.
JP x
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Jeepers - cracks at the corners of the mouth could be vitamin B and D deficiency but some Omega 3 might also help.
DG x
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I wanted to mention that cracks in the corner of the mouth are hallmark signs of Candida. I had this happen years ago after a round of strong antibiotics which killed off all the good bacteria in the gut and allowed the candida to thrive. It is a well known manifestation of Candida. Best thing is to add probiotics, have NO alcohol and limit any sugar, which is like throwing fire onto the candida situation. Mine cleared up in a few weeks but it was very troublesome.
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Cracks in the edges of my mouth is usually because I dribble at night ;D ........... maybe apply Vaseline, a good lip balm or Savlon regularly. I have never had cracks when I suffered vaginal thrush ::) fortunately.
Thrush thrives on natural sugars. It 'lives' in the back passage so can get passed forwards by bad toileting hygiene.
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The vaginal presentation seems different than when candida is running throughout the body. I've known a number of people who got oral thrush from antibiotic use but it did not give them vaginal thrush. So who knows? I think it must all depend on how balanced those systems are to start with! Salves and other moisturizing remedies are good ideas!
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Hi,
sorry for the delay in replying, I have been away for a week.
Thank you all for your replies. The cracks in my mouth seem to be better, I am using Vaseline, especially at night.
My stomach still doesn't feel quite right. Sometimes its tender,either in the centre or under ribs on the right sometimes is vaguely burning. Sometimes its okay, probably when I only eat small amounts. I sometimes also feel a little bit nauseous. I'm not sure if it is normal to still get digestive symptoms this long after gastritis?
Of course , my mind being what it is, I am still worrying about stomach cancer :-(
Jeepers xxx
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My friend had salmonella poisoning from ice-cream in Italy many years ago: it took 2 years B4 she could eat anywhere near a 'normal' diet and 4 B4 she felt well. Bland food little and often kept her alive.
Did the Vaseline help the lips? Use it even when you don't have symptoms. I'm dribbling as I type >:( ::) [did U go somewhere nice?].
Check what you eat too, spicy foods can aggravate any soreness in the digestive tract. I find chewing 2 Rennies eases symptoms.
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Jeepers - you would probably be diagnosed with IBS now, as your symptoms do sound very typical for this ‘vague' diagnosis. To be honest, I have found that I just have to eat small amounts these days and to keep the problems at bay - I think as we age our digestive system does get far more sensitive. DG x
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Hi
Thanks for the replies --
CKLD, your poor friend, that must hae been awful. But at the same time, I feel reassured. I can live with it, as long as I know that its nothing sinister. I am trying not to drink any hot drinks today, as I think it does make the symptoms worse. Am eating a bland diet as much as I can. Avocado and egg on toast for brekkie, I will have porridge for lunch with banana, not sure about dinner as I am going out.
Yes, the Vaseline definitely helped, I made sure I put it on overnight too.
Dancinggirl -- do you really think so? I don't know much about IBS, but I thought that was then large intestine, and all of my pains etc definitely come from above the naval, exactly where the stomach is. Does IBS cover the whole gastro-intestninal system?
Jeepers xx
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IBS can effect the whole digestive system and is a general term that doctors give when they can't find anything else wrong. It's usually linked with food sensitivity and there is the FODMAP diet sheet that is handed out but I found this unhelpful as so many of the things on it aggravated my heartburn and reflux and the things it says to avoid I'm fine with!!!
You might like to try taking digestive enzymes and some probiotics to aid digestion? I find eating small meals often is the only way to keep things calm. DG x
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I don't know where my stomach is, it never seems to feel 'sick' where the diagram says it ought to be :-\.
My IBS was due to the spasm almost stopping. Due to anorexic-type symptoms from age 3. I felt hungry but there wasn't any room in the digestive tract to take any more ....... fortunately the GP had a trick up his sleeve and saved my Life.
I couldn't face an egg at any time: unless it's in :cupcake: ;D
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Hi all
Things did get better for a while. The last week or so, I was completely symptom free! I have even managed to progress with one of my "dates" and things are going super well in that department.
The Vagifem is working like a dream, absolutely no bladder problems, all comfy "down there"!
So I made an appointment for the doctor to get set up on a repeat prescription, and that appointment was this morning. I have been really happy and relaxed, not anxious about anything at all. I have even started back to the gym in earnest.
So, this morning I woke up, and stomach pains are back!! Not really severe, but defnitely there about where my ribs part in the middle. So, when the doctor asked me, I had totell him. Now he has arranged for me to have an endoscopy, and I am freaking out. A couple of tjhings he said "As you have never had gastritis before" like it is a bad omen, and "given your age!" (56). Now it feels like I have been handed a stomach cancer diagnosis :-(
Its like fate is having a cruel joke... I meet a lovely man and now I have no future :'(
I spent a lot of time this afternoon trying comfort myself with logic and statistics (its a big part of my job, and how my mind works:
1 in 154 women will be diagnosed with SC, so thats .65% by my reckoning, so over a 99% chance I dont have it?
65% of diagnosis are over the age of 65
I don't have any of the known risk factors (overweight, smoker, h.pylori etc, etc)..
I haven't lost weight, my bowels are the same as ever...
I also tried to convince myself that it might be because I used some of the milk that I had left out in the sun all day, or the mozzarella that tasted slightly "off" because the bag had split..
I have no idea how long I will have to wait for the appointment, I didn't ask. I just remember him saying "we can make a case for you to have and endoscopy"
Yesterday, I was as giddy as a schoolgirl, now I'm back to square one. How am I going to cope??
Jeepers xx
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Try not to worry x
Type endoscopy into the search engine on here and you will see a lot of ladies have had one. Read up as you are not alway referred because they are thinking of SC. Often it is for diagnosis of a stomach ulcer. My mother in law had an endoscopy to diagnose her ulcer after suffering pain under her left breast. She's fine now.
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Hi,
thanks for your replies, it means a lot to me to be able to talk on here.
I am trying not to panic, but its so hard. Last week I felt like I was getting my mojo back, I even managed a gently scuba dive. I now think I was tempting fate, and have been put back in my place.. as if I was bad to think I could be "normal"
I want to have the endoscopy, as the not knowing is the worst thing ever, imagining everything. At least if it is the worst kind of news, I will know for sure.!
I have my new man (I shouldnt say "my", but I don't know what else to say), around for dinner tonight. HE has bought me quite a few dinners, and wont let me pay, so I am cooking for him. I am so tempted to tell him I can't see him anymore... after all , he didn't sign up for what might be in store :'(
the pain is sharp and comes and goes, is in the centre of my upper abdomen, although I do get pain under my right ribs at times too. I just want it to go away, and let me have my life back,
thank you again
Jeepers xxx
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Hi
Thanks sparkle, the evening went really, really well. I can safely report that I do NOT have any problems on the Libido dept :oops: :yes:
I don't want to tell him, just in case it turns out to be noting, and I have sabotaged things like I always do ..if that makes sense.
I didn't notice any symptoms last night :-\ , and I cooked (and ate) lasagne with garlic bread and salad. Pudding was strawberries in balsamic vinegar with ice cream, and I even had a a small glass and a half of prosecco!
This morning I have a pain in my right side (and a headache, I am such a lightweight)... its strange how things seem to move around. So could that possibly be gall bladder sign? I only had the blood tests I listed earlier, not sure if they are for gall bladder? If so, do I need a different test other then an endoscopy?
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Glad to hear your evening went well Jeepers! The closer you two get the more you will start to feel he can be there for you through all your troubles without you deciding for both of you that he would be better off without you. I'm sure he won't feel like that at all.
You have similar digestive problems to what I had a while ago but like you say, you had no symptoms last night. I was like that. Sometimes a type of food I ate gave me problems and other times I could eat it and be fine. Anxiety doesn't help with stomach issues. I have been healthy eating for a few months now and have had none of the digestive issues I used to get. Try not to worry that the endoscopy will show up anything untoward and carry on with enjoying your new romance!
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Hi snoooze
Thanks for your reply.
I have chatted to new man, and the subject of illness came up. I said "if I got I'll, I would let you go, as that is not what you are signing up for.". He was a bit taken aback and said he wouldn't turn away from me, that's not what caring people do.
I didn't tell him about the ongoing problems though. We went out for a lovely walk yesterday evening and ended up in a pub. I haven't had much appetite lately and had not had any dinner. Do then I foolishly drank a pint (!) of orange juice.
It hasn't helped and I feel nauseous today, as well as the pains in my stomach!
I'm tempted to go back to the doctor's, as he said I should go straight back if I felt worse. I don't know, feels like this has been going on forever.
Yesterday morning I had some very strange sharp pains at the top of my hip bone on the right. It only hurt when I stood up after sitting for a while, and by the afternoon it had completely gone.
So many different pains and tenderness... I just want to feel better. :'(
Jeepers xx
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Jeepers, I agree with Sparkle in terms of things that need to be evaluated to see what's the source of the trouble - whether gallbladder or acid stomach, etc. I've had issues off/on for many years and will be seeing a GI doctor next week. I suspect I, too, will have to have an endoscopy and am shaking in my boots. :( I am terrified of tests and really avoid them whenever I can. It just ramps up my anxiety so badly. I also have horrible health anxiety and being over 50 now realize that I can't just ignore things like maybe I would have in my 20's. I greatly sympathize with the way our minds go to the 'what if's' as I'm doing it terribly right now. You are not alone in this at all!!
Sparkle, I was diagnosed years ago with a hiatal hernia but they tend to be 'sliding' hernias and are not always seen at endoscopy. It was seen many years ago and I was told it was quite large, then another endoscopy about 10 years later it was not evident (must have slid back into place). But it's definitely a good check to see what's happening. For gallbladder the first check they would do is an ultrasound as it gives a good visualization of the gallbladder and they can see if you have gallstones or inflammation, etc. I had several of those and ended up having my gallbladder removed after a HIDA scan (to test the contracting function of the gallbladder) showed mine was functioning very poorly. I'd had symptoms for almost 10 years off/on).
Many stomach issues are functional and there is no readily apparent cause, though. Anxiety and nerves can do a number on the GI tract. I can attest as I'm sure many others here can too! I will be keeping my fingers crossed for you that all is well and that things check out perfectly for you. I know it doesn't help the anxiety of the 'why do I feel like this?', but at least you will have peace of mind. I'm hoping it for both of us. xxxxx
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Hi Jeepers,
Glad you had a little chat with him and I like what he said. He sounds like a keeper!
I agree with Sparkle, I never touch orange juice, far to acidic. Nowadays all I drink is still water or peppermint tea! I don't touch alcohol or any fizzy drinks.
I have had that pain in my hip. I put it down to another symptom of IBS.
Hopefully you will get some answers soon and can put your mind at rest.
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Hi All
Thank you so much for your replies, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. I'm in a dark place right now, I'm just not sure how much longer I can go on. I'm trying to be strong for my kids, but to be honest, if I could just close my eyes and go to sleep forever, it would be a merciful release from the torment I am putting myself through. I can't stop crying, I don't know what to do with myself.
Today, I haven't had too much pain, quite mild really. However, I have had a strange pain in my back, slightly lower than the waistline, and slightly to the left of my spine. It comes and goes, is quite sharp and is like a sharp pulse for about 30 seconds, then goes away for a while. I stupidly googled "pain in mid back" and it came back as a red flag for doctors diagnosing cancer, which has spread to the bones. :'( :'(
I haven't heard anything about my endoscope appointment, the waiting and wondering is too much to bear.
I keep getting flashbacks to my Dad dying, and I really don't want t put my kids through that
I'm sorry to be so weak, I just want it all to stop,
Jeepers xxx
PS -- I know it was a terrible idea to drink not just an orange juice, but a pint of it.
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Aww Jeepers, I know what it's like as a health anxiety sufferer to let your mind run away with you and the terrible googling is a bad idea but I'm guilty of it too. I've been busy lately and I've noticed it really helps to keep busy as the mind is occupied and hasn't time to think of every little pain and twinge.
As for your back. That sounds very muscular to me. I have had similar. I had it in my thigh, that sharp pulse for 30 seconds. It was actually coming from my back during a time when I was spending far too much time just lazing in bed.
Please try not to worry that something major is going on. Relax and try to focus on something else. This too shall pass xx
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Hi
thank you for replying.
No, I don't think it was an urgent referral. I should take heart from that, as hopefully that means he isn't suspecting the worst.
I keep busy at work, but after that its really difficult. I was going to the gym 4 times a week, but I'm too scared to go in case it makes my symptoms worse and sends me into a panic (I d get burning/pain when I exert myself at home, like picking up something heavy). I need to get back to it, or my body will turn to mush! Maye not the body pump though :-\, I would have gone for a walk or run, but its lashing down here. I will start tomorrow.
My back has been a little better today.
I spent some time yesterday looking at stomach cancer stats on the cancer research site. And for women in my age group there were 121 per 100,000, so that equates to 1 in 826.. which must be quite good odds.
My posture isn't great. My right shoulder is misaligned from using computer mice for so long. I am supposed to be going to a chiropractor for that, but haven't organised myself to make the appointment yet. I really should.
On a better note, I had a health check which is part of my health insurance package. My bp was 115/80, my cholesterol was 4.97 with a TC/HDL(?) ratio of 2.73, and my blood sugar level was within limits (can't remember the exact figure). As I have lost a few pounds due to gastric issues, my BMI is now 24.7. The only negative was my waist size, I need to lose a couple of inches .
Thank you again, I do appreciate it. Especially on days where I work from home, and speak to no-one :thankyou:
Jeepers xx
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Maybe STOP looking at google etc.! :-\
Most of the stuff on there isn't verified. I haven't followed your story due to Mum's situation making me extremely tired as well as DH being poorly etc., but if you feel as low as 'that' then 'phone your GP or the Samaritans, or check when your local MIND walk-in Centre is open.
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Jeepers, I've sent you a message. :)
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Sparkle, I am not afraid of the endoscopy itself, it's the results! I can take pretty much any type of discomfort or odd test. I just hate having tests done in the first place and fearing the worst. :(
Yes, it was interesting that they did not see the hiatal hernal on a subsequent endoscopy but I am told this is not at all uncommon as they are sliding and sometimes are more present than others. If they were fixed in place that would actually be quite a problem and could become emergent.
I'm sorry that we are suffering with this kind of thought process. It really is difficult but I find keeping as busy and occupied as possible (work, exercise, getting outdoors, etc) helps a great deal.
Hugs to all! xxxx
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Hello Jeepers,
Hope you're feeling better today.
I've had exactly the same symptoms a while ago an it turned out to be all from anxiety plus the acid reflux that comes with it. The digestive system is our second and sometimes our first brain due to the amount of neurons that it contains and how it is affected by anxiety, panic and depression amongst other mental issues.
My advice is to distract your mind as much as possible from anxiety by keeping yourself busy (body and mind) to the point of exhaustion, then you have to find ways to get relaxed (mindfulness, cbt, yoga, tai chi, whatever suits you better).
You also have to pay attention to your meals, as I know you're already doing, but it's very important to eat slowly and avoid swallowing air while eating which is very common in anxiety. This trapped wind can result in all sorts of pain that are often confused with gall bladder, pancreas and other digestive issues.
Conolly X
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The gut is the 2nd brain. It's where my weakness is :'(. My gut was always rumbling as a child and I felt constantly sick. I have found over the years that eating little and often, bland food stuffs, eases symptoms. If my gut is empty it needs feeding, something to work on, otherwise it grumbles and groans ....... causing wind up and down :-X.
Dry biscuits.
Mixed fruits and nuts [dried].
Bananas.
A good breakfast usually muesli.
Some can eat eggs for a quick burst of protein but unless it's in :cake: :cupcake: I am unable to digest eggs. Also, a little of what I fancy goes a long way! It was IBS that sent me to the GP - it almost killed me :-\ :'(. But medication helped a lot.
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Hi all
Once again, thank you for your replies.
I had a letter for the referral, and I have to ring up next Thursday to arrange the appointment (it seems a strange system, you have to activate your referral, then wait 4 days for consultant to review, then you can make the appointment). I don't think it can be an urgent referral then.
Been feeling a little better the last couple of days, only very mild sensations. I think I have bee sort of sabotaging things a little. Sort of, when I feel better, eating something unwise to "prove" to myself that I am better. I need to stick to good things (I do mostly anyway) until at least after Endoscopy, to keep things goodish, including my anxiety. I woke up this morning feeling anxious, and I didn't even know why, just a general feeling. I have been trying to be calm as much as I can.
Other meno symptoms seem to be creeping back in... had quite a few hot flushes , my hips were aching yesterday...sigh, I had a good spell on those for a while.
I did make myself laugh the other night. I had bad guts, with lots of wind (sorry tmi), which I was wracking my brains to think why. Egg on toast for brekkie, porridge with banana and cinnamon for lunch, what could it be??? I completely forgot that I had a mixed bean and vegetable stir fry for dinnner. Doh!!
CKLD -- sorry to hear your having a tough time with DH & your Mum. It sounds like you have also had more than your fair share of health problems, and I feel a bit ashamed that I am freaking out so much, when others have been much braver.
New man came over last night, and I plucked up the courage to tell him about the Endoscopy and also about my appointment for the meno clinic next month (this would have been a major thing for me as I live my life under a veil of secrecy at the best of times, but to tell a man with whom I am trying to build a special connection!), and he could not have been more lovely. He has offered to come with me for the 'scope. That makes me tear up just typing it.
Also it is very,very comforting to know that others have had the same gastro symptoms. I promise not to google anymore. IT does mean however, that I might whinge more on here when i start to feel overwhelmed. Sorry 'bout that. :-[
hope you are all having a lovely weekend
Jeepers :thankyou:
XXX
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Keep positive jeepers. That's good to hear your new man is being so supportive x
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You whinge ;D ........ we can listen if we want too. We might even respond ;)
DH is better. Tnx. I have to eat B4 my body is hungry otherwise I feel sick and dizzy :-\ :'(. Otherwise I really suffer and anxiety kicks in.
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Hi
Thank you all for your replies.
Things have gone wrong, all my fault. I think I need professional help, I'm such a stupid person. I'm not coping with life at all.
:'( :'( :'( :'(
Thank you all again , so lovely to know you are there xxx
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Come on jeepers you are not a stupid person,you can do this,if I can do it anyone can.ive been there I know it's the pits,but u got this,we are all here for you,keep posting and we will get through this together.xx
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Make an appt. with your GP or Practice Nurse in the morning? Then let us know how you get on?
Life is ups and downs. This too will pass.
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Do you mean things have gone wrong with your man? I'm sure if you explain how you have been feeling he will understand as he seemed to be understanding about your health issues?
You are not a stupid person. You are going through hormonal changes that really effect many women during this time of their lives. Best thing you can do is talk about it and not bottle things up x
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I have replied in the personal section, as it seems inappropriate here,
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Have replied!
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See this with regards long-term use of Omeprazol etc..
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Hi#
Well, finally I have had my Endoscopy. It wasn't pleasant, I had to opt for no sedation, as I didn't have anyone to be a "responsible adult" after the precedure. Still, I got though it, and whilst I Still have some mild gastritis, otherwise there was nothing sinister. Dr too a biopsy to check for H. Pyloribactor, and suggested I take Omeprazole at a high dose for 2 months, then reduce. I am a little reluctant to do this, as I have been doing okay without it for a while now. I can;t decide whether I should or not. I'm a bit worried that I will muck up my digestive system for good.
Maybe I could just alter my diet a bit?
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Hi Jeepers. I just wanted to reach out because I went through almost the exact same thing as you about two years ago. Discomfort under left ribs/awful wind and burping. I got so anxious about it and saw several GPs. Like other on the site I found Omniprazole make things worse not better (I don't think the problem is acid but inflammation almost . The stuff made my stomach like cement). The only thing the GP prescribed was called Ranitidine tablets or Peptac and it was much more gentle. Anyway it all turned out to be stress and anxiety related. (Triggered maybe 3-4 months after a family breakdown) Then my fear of my gastric problems (plus hormones maybe) just upset my whole digestive system. Since then I have really cut down on gluten (especially bread), alcohol and never eat fried foods or chilli which can set it off. I have cut down tea and coffee and switched to green tea and milk. I eat little and often things like nuts/fruit. All these things plus time have really helped. I get the odd ' flare up' every 2-3 months but the dull ache went within 6-8 weeks as my anxiety reduced (or switched to another perceived ailment!). I feel like my system has almost healed itself as my stress reduced. My anxiety too is fuelled by a morbid dread that I won't be around for my kids, maybe made worse by loosing my sister when she was young. Please try and keep positive (HeadSpace or Pacifica are good Apps) and just try and enjoy each day. I wish I had found this site years ago. I felt so alone with my (baseless) fears at the time.
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I think this is a very common thing in menopause - gastritis and GI issues. I had an endoscopy in June. Found chronic gastritis and some inflammation/esophageal reflux. I was put on Omeprazole but I did not like how it made me feel. Like you said, Roseneath - my stomach felt like cement and I felt like I wasn't able to digest my food properly at times. It was not good. I ended up on high dose ranitidine (still on it). I am having a repeat endoscopy in September to see that the inflammation and irritation is doing better. In the US they always follow up on these things to see if the medication is doing the job, and then would switch it out or change doses if not. I guess that's better than just being thrown a prescription with no follow through!
One interesting thing my regular (Primary care/GP) doctor told me, and this may give some of you comfort: If you took 100 people our age and gave them endoscopies, about 80% would have findings similar to everything that everyone is discussing here. And I had read this before but kind of dismissed it. He said because of age, wear and tear, poor diet, stress, alcohol, etc, that most people have some gastric findings on endoscopy that do not usually cause symptoms. I have always had a very sensitive stomach so I notice everything! But he said most people do not and hence they have things going on that they wouldn't know about unless the endoscopy was done.
I hope you feel better Jeepers and you too Roseneath and all that are dealing with unsettled stomachs and all this GI stuff! xxxxx