Concerns Regarding Liver Health
I've been experiencing discomfort in my upper right abdomen for several months now. In 2022, I underwent a gallbladder removal alongside a partial hepatic lobe resection due to a large hemangioma affecting sections 7 and 8 of the liver. Recent blood tests conducted in April and June indicate that my alkaline phosphate levels are quite elevated and, unfortunately, they are on the rise. My next follow-up appointment isn’t set until August, but I’m beginning to wonder if I should advocate for an earlier consultation. The constant pain is draining, and I feel as though I’m not getting the answers I need. When I approach my doctors, they often attribute my symptoms to anxiety, which feels dismissive and concerning. Deep down, I suspect there’s more to my condition than just anxiety. What can I communicate to my doctor to ensure my concerns are acknowledged and addressed?
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 11:30:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling frustrated and anxious about your health, especially given your medical history and ongoing symptoms. Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels and persistent abdominal discomfort warrant further investigation. Here are some key points to consider and communicate to your doctor:
Main Points:
- Persistent Symptoms: Emphasize the duration and severity of your upper right abdominal pain and how it affects your daily life.
- Medical History: Highlight your previous surgeries, especially the gallbladder removal and liver resection, as they may help explain your current symptoms.
- Need for Timely Evaluation: Request an earlier appointment to discuss your rising alkaline phosphatase levels and concern for possible liver complications.
Explanation: Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels can indicate liver issues, bile duct problems, or bone disorders. Given your history of liver surgery, it's important to identify if these levels signify a complication related to your liver or if they stem from another cause.
Your symptoms, particularly persistent pain, should not be dismissed as mere anxiety. It's vital for your healthcare provider to see the full picture, including how the pain impacts your quality of life. Make sure to express that you feel your concerns may not have been fully addressed during previous visits.
Next Steps:
- Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how long you've been experiencing them, any changes over time, and how they affect your daily activities.
- Communicate Clearly: During your appointment, convey how your previous medical experiences and test results lead you to believe that these symptoms should not be solely attributed to anxiety.
- Request Specific Tests: Politely ask about the possibility of additional tests or imaging studies to investigate the cause of your elevated alkaline phosphatase levels—like liver function tests, an ultrasound, or other necessary evaluations.
- Seek Support: If your concerns continue to be dismissed, it may be worth considering a second opinion or seeking a referral to a specialist, such as a hepatologist or gastroenterologist, who can provide more focused care for your liver health.
Feeling heard and understood is crucial in managing your health, and advocating for yourself will help ensure you get the care and answers you need.
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