
Could Recurrent Bloating, Gas, Nausea And Burping Be Due To Stress-induced IBS?

I have been having the following symptoms for the last couple weeks.
Inner right groin pain (sharp/stabbing at times constant dull aching) worse when sitting down
Sharp pains that come and go in the right upper and lower abdomen (comes and goes)
3-4 bowel movements a day
Constipation
Bloating
Gas
Burping pretty often
Sometimes I get nauseas after eating
Daily headaches
Feeling like I haven't expelled all bile during a bowel movement, straining and feeling like there is something left
I was in the hospital a couple weeks back with the pains and they said it was constipation. I was taking Miralax. I went and saw the doctor on Monday and he prescribed me Amitiza. I have been taking that as prescribed and the symptoms seem to not be residing and getting worse at times.
It also seems to get worse the more I focus on the pain and think about it. I don't feel any symptoms when I wake up in the morning or if I take a bath they seem to reside. But throughout the day they are very severe.
I have been very stressed over the last few weeks and have been dealing with health anxiety issues.
Could this be due to stress induced IBS or do I need to seek medical attention immediately?
May also have GERD
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for your query.
Bloating, gas, nausea and burping often can sometimes occur with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Adding reflux medication may help with this eg Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid.
Constipation can also cause bloating and gas but since you are able to have 3 to 4 bowel movements a day, though straining, then it is not a likely cause.
The headaches may be due to stress or worry about your symptoms or any other issues.
Many symptoms or our reaction to symptoms are influenced by our thought process, this is why the pain seems to worsen when you focus or think about it.
Stress itself cause abdominal symptoms and may also worsen IBS.
Based on what is written, you do not need to seek immediate medical attention but can make a routine appt with your doctor for assessment.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician

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