Pain in Upper Left Abdomen

[recklesskelly]

I have been having a pain in my upper left abdomen on and off for months. Earlier this year, I went to the ER twice becuase I began worrying so much about the pain that it made it seem much worse than it actually was. The pain itself is on my left side underneath my ribcage. When I notice the pain, it's not very severe, maybe 3 out of 10 but it tends to make me worry. I've been to my FP doc numerous times and had blood work done. All of the tests came back negative everytime. He mentioned that he was checking my liver and kidneys. My spleen is not enlarged. I had an upper GI done a few months ago as well and the doc said it was gastritis. I'm now taking 20mg of prilosec twice a day which doesn't seem to affect the pain at all. The pain doesn't seem to be triggered by anything, although I do notice it happens more often than not when I am quite full. Another sensation I have when the pain occurs is that my heart is about to palpatate. Odd description, but I have SVT and that seems to be the only way I know how to explain it. I suffer from anxiety whcih has made me worry quite a lot about this pain. I'm constantly telling myself that it's not cancer, nothing that can kill me quickly. Any advice you have on the issue would be appreciated. I've been contemplating having an upper endoscopy done, would this be wise?

[recklesskelly]

I know this may be a vague question, but I'm always worried about having cancer. I know my symptoms mights be some of that of cancer but I've always thought there would be more symptoms especially since this has been going on for months.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Various causes of dyspepsia and the spleen and pancreas should be evaluated for.

I agree with the upper GI, but you may want to consider an upper endoscopy.  A CT scan can evaluate the pancreas and spleen.  

You may also want to obtain pancreatic enzymes as well.  

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 patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com