Pain in Upper Left Abdomen

I have had pain in my upper left abdomen for almost 2 months.  I had a 3 1/2" cyst on my kidney and they drained it thinking it was the problem.  I am still experiencing the same pain.  It is isolated and about the size of a silver dollar and felt right beneath my rib and I can also feel it in my back.  The urologist said if it wasn't the cyst it must be gastro and did not ask to see me again.  The cat scan shows no diverticulitis, and no abnormalties other than the cyst.  I have no infection.  I am tired, I am belching and have had nausea but not near like I had it before the cyst drainage.  The gastro doctor has me on Cipro and wants to do a colonoscopy in 2 weeks.  He has mentioned diverticulits, IBS and constipation.  I am not constipated, and the pain is isolated.  It's normally a dull pain, not severe, but there are times it will get sharp.  I have not noticed anything that would cause it (food, sitting, etc).
Any ideas?  Am I going in the right direction?  

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the CT scan, and this test would have evaluated for colitis, diverticulitis, or problems with the spleen.

I would further investigate the stomach and upper digestive tract, which can result in left upper abdominal pain.  This can be done with an upper endoscopy, which can exclude GERD, inflammation or an ulcer.

If negative, a colonoscopy can be performed to look for lower GI causes.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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 Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
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