Mild lower abdominal ache and right side burning sensation

[Eric55]

I've had a re-occuring slight burning pain on the upper right side of my ribs about 7 inches under my arm pit. I also have a dull very mild ache or full sensation in the lower right abdomen about 3 inches below my ribs and tends to not always be in the same spot. I've had comprehensive blood tests, urine test, stool sample, ultrasound, CT Scan, chest X-Ray, Lung compacity test - ALL tested normal. I have no other sympotoms and feel absolutely fine. Only thing other than the burning and abdominal discomfort is that I've notice my bowel movements are smaller in size since this started. Also, this discomfort is not present in the morning and don't notice it while I'm sleeping.

This has been going on for about 7 months. I've been very concerned there could be a problem with my liver as I do drink alchohol. I also drink about 3 cups of coffee per day. My diet otherwise is healthy and balanced. I'm not overweight and I'm a 37 year old male.

What should I be looking for if I go to a GI specialist of what this could possibly be.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You have had a pretty comprehensive evaluation for your symptoms.  The ultrasound and CT scan would rule out many of the major gI disorders.  

You can consider upper GI conditions, such as dyspepsia or GERD.  An upper endoscopy is recommend if this is suspected.  

The ultrasound and CT scan would have appropriately evaluate the liver.  I would also obtain liver function tests to ensure disease isn't present.  

If the tests remain negative, looking outside the GI system can be considered.  A chest CT can look for pulmonary causes for instance.

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_

[Eric55]

Does anybody out there know what the doctor is refering to when he says "liver funtion tests"? Is he referring to my AST/ALT levels?

[pgilmore]

I had my gallbladder removed 01/07.  Everything was great!  Then about a month ago I started having a burning, sticking pain under my last rib on my right side.  It is getting worse.  I am also having problems when eating, at least twice a week or sometimes 3 times a day I can not swallow.  It is a 10 on the pain scale.  Any ideas???  Could the staple my surgeon used when removing my gallbladder come loose???  I know that sounds stupid, but the burning, sticking pain feels like a straight pin sticking me.

[SES6969]

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