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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Acute upper right quadrant pain
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Acute upper right quadrant pain
by JennyWS, Jun 03, 2007 12:00AM
I am a 55 female, excellent health. For 6 months, I have been experiencing chronic and infrequently acute pain in my upper right quadrant--under the rib cage but in the front, rather than the back of the rib cage. Originally, I noticed a dull ache when lying on my stomach--though severe enough to wake me up while sleeping. Then, infrequent very sharp pain in my far right chest cavity began to occur when I twisted my torso, such as reaching around for an object, or when I bent in such a way that my chest was compressed, such as when tying shoes. Occasionally, I feel a 'fullness' in my right chest. An ultrasound and a CT scan of the area revealed normal condition of liver, gallbladder, general area. The CT scan was ordered by my onologist--I had radiation of right breast after a lumpectomy 14 months ago--to ensure the pain was not the result of radiation damage. On average, I drink 2 cups of coffee, 2 non-caffeine diet sodas, and 2 alchoholic drinks per day. Infrequently, I am experiencing heartburn after eating rich foods (like ice cream). The may be unrelated to the original condition.
Thank you for your diagnosis and advice.
Thank you for your diagnosis and advice.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Jun 03, 2007 12:00AM
, Jun 03, 2007 12:00AM
The negative ultrasound and CT scan would make liver and gallbladder disease less likely.
At this time, I would consider evaluating the upper digestive system. An upper endoscopy or upper GI series can be considered to rule out GERD, an ulcer, or inflammation of the upper digestive tract. I would also consider tests to look for H Pylori - which may cause inflammation or an ulcer leading to your symptoms.
If the GI tests continue to be negative, you can consider pulmonary or musculoskeletal causes of the pain.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
At this time, I would consider evaluating the upper digestive system. An upper endoscopy or upper GI series can be considered to rule out GERD, an ulcer, or inflammation of the upper digestive tract. I would also consider tests to look for H Pylori - which may cause inflammation or an ulcer leading to your symptoms.
If the GI tests continue to be negative, you can consider pulmonary or musculoskeletal causes of the pain.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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What you are describing sounds more like bowels. It takes hours for food to digest, try checking this in the mornings prior to eating breakfast and discuss your concerns with your family physician. Hope the information helps and stay well!