For four months, stomach problems with Helicobacter Pylori without successful treatment.
08/13/2014: During a long-haul flight, I suddenly experienced extremely severe stomach pain and nausea. Upon arrival, I took an over-the-counter medication for heartburn, but the pain remained unbearable. During the night, I noticed black stools. In the following days, I continued to experience severe stomach pain and temporarily stopped eating. Due to business travels, I was unable to see a doctor immediately. I was able to eat light meals again with the combination of over-the-counter medications.
08/25/2014: Due to persistent pain, I went to my general practitioner in the Netherlands. Blood was drawn and tested for anemia and Helicobacter Pylori. The doctor pressed on my stomach a few times and mentioned that I likely have stomach ulcers. I was then prescribed a 7-day course of Rantidine.
09/01/2014: I was informed that there was no evidence of anemia, but that I would receive an antibiotic treatment for Helicobacter Pylori.
09/02/2014: I started a 7-day course of PantoPAC.
09/09/2014: Following this, I was prescribed Pantoprazole for 8 weeks. I was assured that everything would be fine afterwards and that I did not need to come in for a follow-up appointment. At the beginning of the treatment, I fasted for three days as my stomach was more sensitive due to the antibiotic treatment. I also took a 10-day course of probiotics (Othiflor Plus).
09/19/2014: After finishing the Pantoprazole treatment, my symptoms returned. I experienced bloating and discomfort after eating, as well as frequent burping, foam, and food regurgitation. I also had almost constant pain in the upper abdomen, even on an empty stomach, such as before bedtime.
12/01/2014: Due to ongoing symptoms, I scheduled another appointment with my general practitioner. I was referred for a contrast X-ray and had blood drawn again to determine the success of the antibiotic treatment. Additionally, I was prescribed Pantoprazole for another 3 months.
12/03/2014: A contrast X-ray was performed to examine the diaphragm. The findings indicated that everything appeared normal and the movements of the stomach were good.
12/08/2014: The doctor's assistant informed me that the blood test showed an increase in antibodies. However, my general practitioner later mentioned that there were actually fewer antibodies and requested another blood test in three months.
12/14/2014: I have been taking Pantoprazole again for two weeks, but have not experienced any relief in symptoms. I am constantly experiencing stomach pain, and after every meal, I feel like I am regurgitating foam and food. I am extremely tired, but unsure if this symptom is related to my stomach issues.
Prior to the incident on 08/13/2014, I had been experiencing stomach issues for several years, although not as severe, and therefore had not sought medical attention. I always had upper abdominal pain in the evenings, occasionally regurgitated foam and other stomach contents after eating fatty foods, and experienced severe stomach cramps for two days after consuming normal amounts of alcohol (e.g. two glasses of wine), causing me to now only tolerate small amounts.
My question now is whether the treatment process in the Netherlands aligns with the German guidelines, what potential diagnoses you would consider, and what further tests you may suggest. Additionally, are there any recommendations I should follow? My doctor mentioned that a healthy stomach should be able to handle anything, so I do not need to adjust my habits. I am hesitant to take Pantoprazole for years as it has caused liver damage in my family and gives me headaches.
