- Support fearless journalism
- Read The Daily Express online, advert free
- Get super-fast page loading
When you might want to communicate to your GP about abdomen issues
Dr Dawn Harper explains signs and therapy of IBS
Many of us have skilled abdomen points in some unspecified time in the future. Stomach ache, bloating and nausea, may be brought on by a myriad of issues.
Quite typically they’re nothing to fret about and may be the results of consuming an excessive amount of meals, or one thing that doesn’t agree with you.
However, in different instances they could be a signal of one thing extra critical. According to Doctor Jason Chow, guide medical oncologist at Cromwell Hospital, they could require a go to to your GP in sure circumstances.
Speaking with Express.co.uk , he stated: “It’s important to know when symptoms may be a sign of something more serious and when they should be checked out by a doctor.
“Particularly, if you’re over 55 years old, overweight, smoke or drink alcohol, have a poor diet, have a H. pylori infection (such as stomach ulcers), or you have a family history of gastrointestinal cancer.”
Stomach ache may sign one thing extra critical (Image: Getty Images)
He talked by the commonest gastrointestinal indicators and signs and when it’s best to search additional recommendation.
Stomach ache
If that is persistent, will get worse or retains coming again it’s time to hunt medical assist.
“It is common to have stomach pain, caused by gas, bloating and stomach bugs, but when it is intense pain that doesn’t go away or gets worse or keeps returning over the space of a couple of weeks then it’s important to speak to a doctor,” Dr Chow stated.
“If you notice that you are going to the toilet more often or losing weight alongside the stomach pain then I would recommend you speak to your doctor as soon as possible as this could be something more serious such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel disease or in rare cases, cancer. “
Stomach pain coupled with other symptoms such as losing weight could even signal cancer (Image: Getty)
Difficulties or pain when swallowing
Experiencing difficulties or pain when swallowing can be a sign of an infection, such as tonsillitis, or a cold.
Dr Chow continued: “But when it’s persistent, it may be a sign that there is something else wrong and should be checked out by a doctor.
“If the painful swallowing occurs with other symptoms, such as; blood when you cough, a hoarse voice that lasts longer than two weeks, or a lump in the neck, then make an appointment with your doctor to look into what might be causing this.”
Nausea or vomiting
Persistent nausea or vomiting is one to look at. Dr Chow stated: “Nausea and vomiting may be due to a number of things. If you’ve been vomiting for over 48 hours, then you should speak to a doctor as you’ll likely be suffering with dehydration.
If you have any worrying symptoms you should speak to a healthcare professional (Image: Getty)
“You should also see a doctor if your vomit is green or yellow as this could mean you’re bringing up bile which can sometimes suggest that you may have a blockage in your bowel, and need to get checked.
“If you are concerned that there is blood in the vomit, you should speak to a doctor urgently.”
Acid reflux
Acid reflux may be painful and happens when abdomen acid flows again into the oesophagus. Acid reflux is widespread and usually isn’t any motive to fret.
“However, it’s important to look out for symptoms becoming worse or persistent, especially when they do not improve after treatment,” Dr Chow stated.
“Usually over the counter products or lifestyle modifications will help to improve symptoms of acid reflux but when symptoms are persistent or include vomiting, sudden abdominal pain or difficulty breathing then seek medical help as soon as possible.”
Change in bowel behavior
It’s actually essential to note any modifications in bowel habits, Dr Chow stated.
He added: “While it’s completely normal to occasionally be constipated or have diarrhoea, when it carries on for longer than a couple of days, then you should see a doctor who will be able to look into why this is happening.
“If you experience any dark stool or blood in the stool, you should speak to a doctor immediately.
“While it’s likely to be nothing serious, your doctor will want to rule out irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bowel disease, Crohn’s disease and cancer. If it is any of these conditions, then early intervention leads to better outcomes and in some cases can even be life saving.”