Persistent Discomfort in the Lower Right Abdomen
I'm scheduled to consult with a gastroenterologist soon, but I'm reaching out for insights first, as I'm feeling quite perplexed about my condition and who to see regarding it. I’m a 43-year-old female, weighing 160 pounds and standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a generally low level of physical activity. Thankfully, I don't have any food allergies, though I do react to aspirin and NSAIDs with symptoms like throat swelling and itchiness. For over two years, I have been experiencing a recurring discomfort localized in my lower right abdomen, particularly just beneath the lower rib margin. Initially, I suspected that caffeine or alcohol were the culprits because I noticed that about 12 to 36 hours post-consumption, I would experience an exacerbation of pain lasting from one to three days. After removing both substances from my diet, I consulted my primary care physician, who ordered an abdominal ultrasound that came back normal, as did my blood test results. I don’t have any issues like constipation or diarrhea accompanying this pain. However, I’ve observed that physical activity tends to trigger and worsen the discomfort. Activities such as hiking, jogging, or simply standing during my teaching duties amplify the ache. I’ve considered several possible causes: - anxiety - potential food intolerance or allergy - chronic appendicitis (a somewhat debatable diagnosis) - an issue with my right ovary (though the ultrasound should have detected this) - gas buildup The sensation I experience is primarily a dull ache accompanied by an uncomfortable feeling of fullness, which in turn diminishes my appetite. Occasionally, the pain may cramp or intensify but usually remains at a manageable level, roughly between 2 and 4 on a scale of 10. Nonetheless, it remains quite distracting, making it challenging to concentrate on my teaching duties. I would greatly appreciate any advice or suggestions from medical professionals regarding the types of evaluations or tests that could be beneficial for my situation. Additionally, I’d like to mention that I had a similar pain in that specific area when I was around 19 or 20 while studying abroad in Ecuador. At the time, I was uncertain if it was due to caffeine, anxiety, amoebic dysentery (which I had treated after experiencing diarrhea), or another issue altogether.
Answers (1)
6/19/2025, 7:30:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort in your lower right abdomen that has been quite perplexing and distracting. Even though you’re set to see a gastroenterologist soon, I can provide some insights that may guide your thinking ahead of that appointment.
Key Points:
- Your symptoms could stem from a variety of causes, including gastrointestinal issues, muscular pain, or even anxiety.
- Monitoring your symptoms and maintaining an open dialogue with your healthcare providers will be crucial for identifying the underlying issue.
Explanation: Your description of the pain being exacerbated by physical activity and certain foods suggests that it could be linked to muscle strain, tension, or even a sensitivity to certain dietary components (though these haven't been identified yet). Given that the ultrasound and blood tests returned normal results, it may be worth considering functional gastrointestinal disorders or visceral pain syndromes, which can often present with similar symptoms without clear pathology.
Your history of abdominal pain in the past, particularly in a different environment, alongside the current symptoms, may suggest a combination of factors, including potential food intolerances, stress, or even previous infections influencing your gastrointestinal system now.
Next Steps:
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Start documenting episodes of pain, noting any activities, foods, or stressors that seem to correlate with worsening symptoms. This can provide valuable insights for your gastroenterologist.
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Evaluate Stress and Anxiety: Since anxiety can manifest physically, consider techniques to manage stress, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Even if anxiety doesn’t seem like a primary cause, managing it can improve overall well-being.
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Gradual Return to Activity: Since physical activity seems to worsen your discomfort, try to maintain a balanced approach to exercise. Gentle stretches or low-impact activities like walking may help reduce tension without aggravating your symptoms.
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Dietary Considerations: While you've removed caffeine and alcohol, it may be helpful to keep an eye on other foods or food groups that could lead to discomfort, possibly consulting with a dietitian for guidance on identifying and addressing potential food intolerances.
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Discussion with Your Gastroenterologist: Share your history and the results of your symptom diary in detail with your gastroenterologist. They may suggest additional tests, such as an endoscopy or colonoscopy, or provide recommendations for dietary trials to rule out intolerances.
Your symptoms warrant attention, and staying proactive in documenting your health will ultimately support you and your healthcare providers in identifying the cause and management strategy for your discomfort. Remember to stay optimistic; many people with similar symptoms find relief with targeted approaches.
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