Persistent Abdominal Discomfort: Seeking Guidance
Hello, I’m a 21-year-old male facing ongoing discomfort on both sides of my abdomen since November. My medical assessments have led to the diagnosis of Fatty Liver Disease and an Inguinal Hernia. Fortunately, the ultrasounds I’ve undergone confirmed that my gallbladder, stomach, kidneys, and intestines are functioning normally. However, the challenge I’m facing is that medical professionals assert neither condition accounts for the pain I’m experiencing throughout my abdomen and sides. They indicated that Fatty Liver Disease typically doesn’t induce such symptoms, while the Inguinal Hernia should primarily cause groin pain, which I am not feeling. Additionally, I’ve noted that there are no noticeable bulges or lumps in the area they mentioned. Currently, I have been dealing with a more intense pain that has persisted for the past two weeks. It manifests as a sharper ache located between my lower and upper abdomen on the left side, accompanied by a dull ache on the right side. Notably, these discomforts do not improve with bowel movements or when I change my position, whether sitting or lying down. As I prepare for my upcoming appointment on Friday, I would be grateful for any suggestions regarding additional scans or possible diagnoses that I could discuss with my doctor. I’m feeling quite lost and in need of help.
Answers (1)
4/2/2025, 5:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
Persistent abdominal discomfort can be distressing, especially when existing diagnoses like Fatty Liver Disease and an Inguinal Hernia don’t seem to explain the pain you’re experiencing. Your symptoms warrant thorough evaluation, and it's good that you're seeking clarity before your appointment.
Understanding Your Symptoms
Your description of persistent discomfort in both sides of your abdomen, coupled with sharp and dull pains that don't improve with bowel movements or position changes, suggests that there may be other factors at play. Common causes of abdominal pain that may not be identified in initial assessments could include:
- Musculoskeletal issues (like muscle strain)
- Gastrointestinal disorders (like irritable bowel syndrome)
- Referred pain from other organs
- Nerve irritation
Suggested Next Steps
Prior to your appointment, consider the following actionable steps:
-
Symptom Diary: Keep a record of your pain patterns, including:
- Timing (when does the pain occur?)
- Intensity (on a scale from 1 to 10)
- Specific locations and any accompanying symptoms (e.g., nausea, changes in appetite) This information can help your doctor pinpoint the issue.
-
Discuss Diagnostic Imaging: Ask about additional ultrasound views or other imaging methods (like a CT scan or MRI) that may provide more insights into abdominal structures, particularly around the areas of pain.
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Broach Other Conditions: Bring up the possibility of other conditions with your doctor, such as:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Biliary colic (though your gallbladder was normal)
- Neuromuscular disorders affecting the abdominal wall
-
Review Lifestyle Factors: Evaluate if there are any dietary habits, stress levels, or physical activities that correlate with your symptoms, and be ready to discuss these.
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Evaluate Pain Management: Ask your doctor about safe over-the-counter pain relief options that might help you cope with the discomfort until a diagnosis is confirmed.
Going Forward
It’s understandable to feel lost with ongoing pain without clear answers. Bringing detailed information to your appointment will empower you to advocate for further evaluation and help ensure you receive the support you need. Remember, you’re not alone in this—many people face similar challenges in finding the cause of their discomfort. Stay proactive, and I wish you the best in your upcoming doctor's visit.
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