Persistent Rib Discomfort: A Year of Frustration
I’m a 29-year-old female who underwent gallbladder removal in 2022. Starting in December 2023, I began experiencing a sharp discomfort beneath my right breast, reminiscent of the pain I felt when I had a large gallstone. I consulted a general practitioner in February 2024, but my experience with this particular doctor was disheartening. Now, in March 2025, I find myself still waiting for an endoscopy. An ultrasound I had conducted a year ago came back inconclusive. Additionally, I’ve had an alarming issue with pus leaking from my belly button, occasionally accompanied by traces of blood, for which I was given a topical antifungal ointment. The scar tissue around my belly button has been swelling as well. This pain has severely limited my daily activities; I struggle to sit at my office desk, perform sit-ups, or engage in intimate relations. Life has become quite unbearable due to this discomfort. Is it possible I have a hernia or another gallstone? How can I make the medical professionals take my concerns seriously? I live in constant anxiety, fearing that the leftover portion of my gallbladder might rupture and lead to a bile infection. Moreover, I suffer from significant bile acid malabsorption, yet doctors have only prescribed Creon and refuse to provide bile binders despite my insurance coverage. I feel desperate for assistance—what steps can I take? Thank you for reading.
Answers (1)
3/24/2025, 11:20:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand how frustrating and distressing your situation is, especially with the ongoing discomfort and multiple health concerns. It’s important to address your symptoms and ensure your voice is heard by medical professionals. Let’s break down your key issues.
Main Points:
- You have persistent rib discomfort and complications after gallbladder removal, including pus leakage from your belly button and possible bile acid malabsorption.
- You are experiencing significant limitations in daily life due to this discomfort and want to ensure your concerns are taken seriously.
Explanation:
The sharp discomfort beneath your right breast could potentially be related to several factors, including residual effects from gallbladder removal, scar tissue, hernias, or even complications from bile acid malabsorption. The pus and occasional blood from your belly button, especially with swelling, indicate a possible infection or seroma, which warrants attention.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Journal: Start tracking your symptoms meticulously. Note the timing, severity, and triggers of the rib discomfort, any changes in your belly button, and how these issues affect daily activities. This information can be invaluable when discussing your case with healthcare professionals.
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Communicate Clearly with Providers: When you see a doctor, be direct about your concerns. Use your symptom journal to illustrate how your symptoms impact your life. Ask specific questions like, “Could this be a hernia, or are there other tests we can do to consider all possibilities?”
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Seek a Second Opinion: If you feel unheard or dismissed by your current provider, consider consulting a different doctor, especially one who specializes in gastrointestinal issues. A fresh perspective can sometimes lead to timely investigations and responses.
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Island of Safety: If your symptoms worsen, especially if you experience increasing pain, fever, or worsening pus, prioritize seeking immediate medical attention. These changes can warrant urgent evaluation.
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Advocate for Your Needs: Voice your concerns about your bile acid malabsorption treatment to your healthcare providers. Explain how this condition affects your quality of life and express your desire for comprehensive management options, including bile binders.
Given your ongoing struggles, I want you to know that you have every right to compassionate care and thorough investigation of your health issues. Please stay proactive about your health, and don’t hesitate to reach out to various healthcare professionals to ensure you receive the attention and care you deserve. Let me know if there’s anything more specific you'd like to discuss.
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