Right Side Flank Pain after eating

[nmabc123]

Hello, I'm am a 48-year-old female. I have had right side flank pain after eating for a year and 3 months. It occurs in front right side and in back right side, i would say maybe mid abdomen, about same height as bellybutton. The pain is dull and uncomfortable, rarely sharp (but occasionally very quick bursts). There is no pattern with what I eat, it happens even when I just drink some things, like coffee.  It does hurt worse the more I eat, but also hurts with just a little bit.  When it first started, I saw the Dr and did every test imaginable for 6 months. I had 2 CTs, several different types of blood tests, several types of ultrasounds, a HIDA scan, x=ray, colonoscopy, endoscopy, did a food elimination diet, went to gynecologist and had her do tests and check me out, and probably other things I can't remember.  Everything came back normal. I finally after all this just gave up and stopped going to the Dr. and she had no idea what was wrong with me. It got better for a few months, then came back and has continued. Recently it has gotten worse. I'm not losing weight and have not lost my appetite. The only other symptom I have is that I'm tired a lot, but I'm not sure if that is related or not.  One other thing to mention is that it started when I had COVID, was mild at first, then a month or so after it got worse.  My COVID was not a bad case. I'm so very frustrated and uncomfortable a lot.  I'm thinking about going back to Dr. (probably a different one) but afraid they'll just make me take all the tests again, and thousands of dollars later i'll be in the same boat again. I've posted on other sites and while it seems other people have similar problems, it seems none of them every figure out what is wrong, or at least don't post that.  If anyone has any suggestions/ideas please let me know. Thanks!

[jodes0120]

I'm so sorry to hear about the ongoing pain and discomfort you've been experiencing for such a long time. It's incredibly frustrating when medical tests don't provide clear answers. While I'm not a doctor, here are a few suggestions from chatgpt that might be worth exploring with a healthcare professional.  I hope you don't mind me using chagpt, and I'm  curious what you and others may think of its responses:

Second Opinion: Considering a consultation with a different healthcare provider might be a good step. A fresh perspective could lead to new insights.

Functional Medicine: Some individuals find value in consulting with a functional medicine practitioner who takes a holistic approach to health issues.

Dietary Journal: Keeping a detailed journal of your meals and symptoms might help identify any potential triggers or patterns that could be missed otherwise.

Allergies and Sensitivities: It's possible that you have developed food sensitivities or allergies. Discussing this possibility with a healthcare provider might lead to specific tests or elimination diets.

Gastrointestinal Specialist: A gastroenterologist may be able to provide further insight into digestive issues, even if previous tests were inconclusive.

Post-COVID Symptoms: Some individuals experience lingering symptoms after a COVID-19 infection. Mentioning the timing of your symptoms to a healthcare provider may be important.

Nutritional Assessment: Fatigue can sometimes be linked to nutritional deficiencies. A nutritional assessment might help rule out any deficiencies that could contribute to your symptoms.

Pain Management: In the meantime, working with a pain management specialist might help you find ways to better cope with the discomfort.

Please remember that these are general suggestions, and it's crucial to discuss them with a qualified healthcare professional. They can guide you through appropriate tests and potential treatment options. I hope you find the relief and answers you're seeking. You're not alone in this journey, and there may be a solution out there that hasn't been explored yet.

[nmabc123]

Thanks!