Pain in upper right abdomen

[oldnavy971]

I am a healthy 36 year old male, 5'8', 150 lbs. About a year ago I experienced a pain in my upper right abdomen underneath my ribcage. My doctor sent me for an ultrasound of the region (gall bladder, liver, pancreas, etc.) and everything was normal as was my blood work. After about 3 weeks the pain subsided. Over the past year I've had small twangs of discomfort here and there but nothing that lasted very long. Now, for the past week or so, I am experiencing the pain again. It's not disabling at all, more uncomfortable. I am able to go about my daily life, including working out, eating normally, etc. However, the pain is always there. I don't think it's muscular because it is more of a sharp pain or a burning than an ache and it doesn't seem to be associated with certain movement or position. There is a very mild nauseated feeling that accompanies the pain. It does sometimes radiate (still minor) into my right side and back. Everything else is normal - energy level, stool, urine, etc. but the pain is very annoying. it seems that most of the disorders that cause pain in this region involve shorter bouts of severe pain rather than constant and dull like mine. I do have a history of kidney stones but they have always brought about severe pain in my back that lasts a few hours and then goes away. I am due to have a physical in May which means I will have my blood work done in mid-April. I'm hoping not to go to the doctor before then.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

[sciencelady111]

Get a HIDA scan to test how well your gall bladder is working.  Even though you don't have stones, your gall bladder can still be diseased and show these symptoms.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the ultrasound, which would evaluate the liver and gallbladder.

Other causes of dyspepsia, like an ulcer, inflammation or GERD may lead to the symptoms.  

An upper endoscopy would be the test to exclude these symptoms.

This option can be discussed with a GI 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 patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com

[hepati]

I suggest that you may perform gastroscope examination