Localized Abdominal Discomfort and Numbness
For several months now, I've been experiencing a peculiar sensation in a specific area of my upper abdomen. This issue originated in February and has manifested as a small patch, measuring under two inches, positioned at the edge of my rib cage slightly to the right of the center. The sensations are both strange and distressing, featuring a mix of hypersensitivity and numbness. When I gently touch the skin, it feels extremely sensitive and painful, resembling the discomfort of a severe sunburn. Conversely, when I apply more pressure, the area becomes numb, akin to the sensation of a foot that has fallen asleep. Additionally, I frequently experience sharp, shooting pains throughout the day, which have escalated to the point of disturbing my sleep on multiple occasions each night. Bending over creates a compressive feeling in that area, accompanied by a vibrating sensation, as if something is being squashed that is not comfortable with that pressure. After my primary care physician ordered a CT scan of my torso, the results returned normal. A prior physician conducted an MRI on my back to check for any pinched nerves, but again, no issues were found. My current doctor referred me to a specialist focusing on nerves, suspecting potential entrapment of a nerve bundle. In an attempt to alleviate my symptoms, the specialist administered a steroid injection into the affected area a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately, there has been no improvement; in fact, the discomfort may have intensified. The nerve specialist mentioned he might have detected a small nodule or swollen area beneath the skin, although he wasn't entirely certain about it. I find myself feeling quite anxious regarding this situation. Reliably taking Tylenol doesn’t appear to be a viable solution for me, and I have no inclination to start on Gabapentin either. Currently, I have reached my maximum out-of-pocket expenses for medical treatments, allowing me to pursue any necessary tests without the burden of financial concerns. I am aware that CT scans are not particularly effective in identifying soft tissue problems. I had previously undergone surgery for a neuroendocrine tumor approximately seven years ago. Thus far, my oncologist does not seem overly worried by my symptoms and has delegated further investigation to my primary care physician. I am a 54-year-old female, standing at 5'7" and weighing 235 pounds; I am currently on medication for both hypertension and hypothyroidism.
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 11:41:00 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the ongoing discomfort and distress you're experiencing. It’s understandable to feel anxious when dealing with persistent symptoms like yours. Let’s break down the situation and outline some supportive steps you can take.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may indicate nerve involvement or sensitivity, potentially related to past surgeries or other underlying conditions.
- Without improvement from previous treatments, further exploration of non-invasive care and symptom management is essential.
Explanation:
Given the combination of hypersensitivity, numbness, and sharp pain localized in your upper abdomen, these sensations may suggest issues with the nerves or surrounding tissues in that area. The past surgery you had for a neuroendocrine tumor may factor into how your body is reacting. It's also worth noting that previous tests (CT scan and MRI) haven't revealed significant issues, which is encouraging in terms of ruling out major concerns like tumors or structural damage.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Tracking: Continue to keep a daily log of your symptoms. Note the intensity of your pain, any triggers, and how you respond to different activities. This information can be valuable in further discussions with your specialists.
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Home Care for Sensitivity:
- Gentle Massage: If tolerable, consider gentle massage around the area. Sometimes, soothing movements can ease discomfort.
- Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress may help relieve some muscle tension and discomfort in the area.
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Alternative Pain Management:
- Consider Non-Pharmacological Approaches: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga can help manage anxiety and may provide pain relief. Look up resources or classes focused on pain management.
- Physical Therapy: If you haven't yet, consider consulting a physical therapist who specializes in nerve issues. They can suggest specific exercises and stretches that may alleviate your symptoms over time.
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Follow-Up Appointments: Since you've had a recent steroid injection without improvement, follow up with your nerve specialist or consider getting a second opinion. They may recommend additional imaging techniques (like an ultrasound) or different interventions. Make sure to discuss all your concerns, including the small nodule they mentioned.
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Stay Connected with Healthcare Providers: Since you have a medical history that includes a neuroendocrine tumor, keep your oncologist informed about your current symptoms and any changes. They may decide to monitor you more closely based on your discomfort.
Reassurance:
Being proactive about your health and seeking various avenues for treatment is commendable. Remember, you're not alone, and there are options out there to help manage your discomfort. If at any point your symptoms worsen significantly (new fevers, severe pain, changes in bowel or bladder habits), seek immediate medical advice. Please let me know if you need further information or support.
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