Intermittent Sharp Pain in the Right Side and Lower Back
I’m a 24-year-old female experiencing intermittent sharp pain near my right side, just beneath my ribs. This discomfort began about three weeks ago and sometimes feels as though it extends to my left side and lower abdomen, just above the pelvic area. Typically, the pain intensifies after eating. My doctor prescribed Naproxen while we await the results of further tests, suspecting it might be linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). I have only taken the Naproxen on two occasions when the pain became particularly intense, and while it provided some relief, I'm aiming to limit its usage. I underwent an ultrasound and a urinalysis. The urine test returned normal results, while the ultrasound showed a few kidney stones, with the largest measuring 0.6 cm. Fortunately, they’re not obstructive. Additionally, my ultrasound report contains two findings related to my liver: "Liver: MCL 12.3 cm. Left lobe is non-well-defined; there is an avascular echogenic area measuring 1.4 x 1.1 cm possibly indicating a hemangioma." "Hepatic echogenic focus potentially indicating a hemangioma." I’m seeking clarity on what these liver findings imply and would appreciate suggestions on pertinent questions to pose to my doctor during my follow-up appointment to better understand my situation.
Answers (1)
7/6/2025, 1:30:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with several interconnected issues, including pain that may relate to your gastrointestinal health, the presence of kidney stones, and findings on your liver ultrasound. Let's address each of these concerns step by step and prioritize action.
Main Points:
- Understanding Liver Findings: The ultrasound findings suggest the possibility of a hemangioma, which is typically a benign (non-cancerous) vascular tumor of the liver. These often do not cause symptoms or require treatment.
- Managing Your Symptoms: Since you're experiencing pain that worsens after eating, this may need further evaluation, especially in connection with your suspected IBS and kidney stones.
- Preparing for Your Doctor's Appointment: It’s important to go into your next appointment with clear questions to get the most out of the discussion regarding your liver findings, symptoms, and treatment options.
Explanation:
- Liver Hemangiomas: Hemangiomas are common and usually harmless. They can be found incidentally during imaging for other reasons. They usually don't require treatment unless they're causing symptoms, which is rare.
- Kidney Stones: Even without obstruction, kidney stones can occasionally lead to discomfort, especially if they're moving. Dietary modifications may help manage pain and prevent stone growth.
- IBS: If the pain is linked to IBS, dietary management may be crucial. Foods that trigger your symptoms should be identified and modified accordingly.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor and Record Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed log of your pain, noting when it occurs, its intensity, and any related symptoms (like dietary intake, bowel habits, etc.). This can offer valuable insights for your doctor.
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Consider Dietary Adjustments:
- Since your pain intensifies after eating, try to identify specific foods that may trigger discomfort. Keeping a food diary can help.
- Consider a low-FODMAP diet temporarily, which may alleviate IBS symptoms. This refers to foods that are generally easier to digest and less likely to cause gas or bloating.
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Prepare Questions for Your Doctor:
- Ask about the implications of the liver ultrasound findings regarding follow-up or monitoring.
- Inquire about the management plan for your kidney stones and whether they're likely to cause further issues.
- Discuss your pain, especially its relationship with eating, and what other treatments or lifestyle modifications you might consider if Naproxen is to be limited.
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Stay Hydrated:
- Ensure you're drinking plenty of water, especially if you have kidney stones, as hydration can help prevent stone formation and facilitate their passage.
By focusing on these steps, you'll be more informed and prepared for your follow-up appointment, helping you to understand your condition better and find effective management strategies.
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