costochondritis and stomach issues

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hello, I'm a 25 year old active and usually healthy male however I've had some health concerns over the past 8months or so. This began with sternum pain in which led to me having a panic attack (my first one in my 25 years). I went to the hospital to get it checked out and got a chest xray, bloods done etc and i was advised this was likely an muscoskeletal issue that would heal over time which it did however since this ive had issues from my sternum, to my back ribs and at my lower left ribs. I believe this is costochondritis although its never been diagnosed as I feel I can manage it fairly well and it seems to get worse if I'm stressed. Shortly after this i began having stomach issues that ranged from burning/aching to reflux and general stomach discomfort. This went on for a few months before I was told by the doctor that I had a helicobacter which was treated with a week of antibiotics. The course of antibiotics solved the reflux and thats just about it. Since then I still have constant stomach pain and other issues ranging from cramps, constipation, bloating and flatulence but most notably pain under my left ribs which is almost ever present. My bowel habits are often inconsistent and I've been advised by the doctor to use buscopan and fibogel although I don't feel that these have much impact. I feel that everytime I bring these issues to the doctor they are merely brushed off and my concern is that it may be something more serious. Does anyone have experience or had similar issues? if so what would you recommend. Thanks

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2 Replies

  • Posted

    hi James, poor you! it sounds like you have IBS, a series of symptoms that cause your bowels to go in to spasm, leave you in pain anywhere from your stomach right through to your bottom. costochronditis is inflammation under your ribcage which causes pain whenever you breathe, causes problem eating because of the pain and can cause weight loss. has your diet advised you watch your diet? be really careful, keep your diet bland if you can. look after yourself, get a second opinion off another doctor and take 1 step at a time....

  • Posted

    James this sort of stomach/digestive pain always gets worse with stress and anxiety. You could try taking a 2 week course of Omeprazole one a day for 2 weeks to see if that helps. You can buy it at most chemists/pharmacies and larger supermarkets.

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