left epigastric pain

[tina5577]

Having pain in upper left epigastric area .. Knife like sharp pains associated with breathing difficulties. All on the left side, when taking deep breaths feels as if something is pulling with the deep breath. Past several mths have  all of a sudden developed anemia, fatigue and protein has showed up in urine also having difficulties going to the bathroom in general without the help of lax and stool soft. I have already had ct,ultrasound, and endoscopy... Can you provide me with any additional info. I am 27yrs old- have family history of lupus- however I am not sure if I have lupus at this point ...Thanks for any info you can give .

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You have had a pretty comprehensive evaluation that would rule out many of the major GI diseases.

You can consider more specialized testing, including a 24-hr pH study, esophageal motility testing or gastric emptying scan - looking for GERD, motility disorders or gastroparesis respectively.  

If lupus is a concern, an ANA test would be a reasonable start.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician or GI evaluation.

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_

[Illyraj]

A related discussion, Left Epigastric Pain was started.