Discomfort in the Right Lumbar Area
(F22) To give a bit of background, I underwent gallbladder removal surgery in December, although I can’t ascertain if it correlates with my current condition. Since late January, I have been experiencing pain localized near my navel, extending to the waist (between my lower ribs and hips). This area becomes significantly more painful upon pressure. The pain varies; at times it is so mild that I hardly notice it, while at other moments, it intensifies to such a degree that I find it difficult to remain still. This discomfort occurs daily, radiating upward yet primarily focusing in that specific area. The sensation is sharp, resembling that of a bruise but more profound. I have not observed any food-related triggers, as I experience this pain regardless of whether my stomach is empty or full. I’ve been diligent about maintaining a healthy diet and have started taking digestive enzymes, but these efforts have yielded no relief. My bowel movements are generally regular, aside from occasional bouts of constipation, and my stool color has been yellow to orangish-brown. A recent CT scan returned with normal results, and my blood tests have also shown no abnormalities. What could be the underlying issue?
Answers (1)
3/19/2025, 8:30:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
You're experiencing discomfort in your right lumbar area, especially after gallbladder surgery, and it's understandable to seek clarity and relief. Your symptoms could arise from several causes, and it's good to know that your CT scan and blood tests came back normal, as that rules out some serious conditions.
Explanation: The pain you're describing, which varies in intensity and is tender upon pressure, could be caused by a few different factors. Since it started after your gallbladder surgery, it might be related to post-surgical changes, such as scar tissue or muscle strain. Other possibilities include referred pain from nearby organs or even irritation of nerves or muscles.
The fact that you have persistent discomfort, sometimes sharp, and that your symptoms do not vary with food intake might indicate a musculoskeletal issue or muscular strain. However, given your previous surgery, it’s crucial to be aware of any possible connections.
Next Steps:
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Gentle Movement and Stretching: Engage in light stretching or gentle exercises, such as walking or yoga, to ensure you maintain mobility. Avoiding prolonged inactivity can help reduce pain over time.
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Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the affected area for 15-20 minutes may help relax muscles and ease discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your pain, noting when it worsens, what activities you were doing, and any lifestyle factors that may change it. This can help identify patterns and guide further treatment options if necessary.
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Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider using over-the-counter pain relief medication, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if you find that your pain is significant, following the dosing instructions on the packaging.
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Review Medication: Since you mentioned taking digestive enzymes without relief, consider discussing this with a pharmacy expert or reviewing whether these supplements are appropriate for your situation.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, especially regarding any changes in bowel habits or if new symptoms develop, reevaluating with healthcare professionals may be beneficial. Staying proactive about your discomfort will help you find the best path to relief.
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