Discomfort in Upper Right Abdomen Without Gallbladder
A 31-year-old woman residing in the USA, standing 5’8" and weighing 240 pounds, is seeking insights about her health concerns. She maintains a lifestyle free from smoking and alcohol and follows a diet rich in whole foods, focusing on organic and locally sourced items, completely avoiding highly processed foods. Currently, she is on a regimen that includes levothyroxine and liothyronine to manage her thyroid condition. Alongside her medical treatment, she is also making strides to shed some pounds through increased physical activity. For the past five days, she has been experiencing pain in her upper right abdominal area, which extends to her back. The discomfort is similar to what is typically associated with gallbladder issues and is frequently accompanied by episodes of loose stools and nausea. The pain intensifies with physical movement. On the third day of this ailment, she visited the emergency room where extensive blood tests were conducted. The results indicated no abnormalities aside from her TSH levels, which are currently being adjusted in consultation with her endocrinologist, as well as some cholesterol tests being evaluated by her primary care physician. The lipase levels, on the other hand, returned within the normal range, and no further investigations were performed. She reported neither fever nor significant appetite, but whenever she attempts to eat, she experiences diarrhea instead. What could be causing these symptoms?
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 12:02:25 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be worried about discomfort in your upper right abdomen, especially when it's been persistent and is accompanied by symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. Given your situation, several potential causes need to be considered, particularly since you no longer have a gallbladder.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may result from digestive issues, biliary tract problems, or possibly a reaction to dietary changes.
- Stress and anxiety can also contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Managing your symptoms and keeping track of any changes is crucial.
Explanation:
Since you’ve had your gallbladder removed, abdominal pain in that area can still occur due to other reasons. Common possibilities include:
- Biliary Dyskinesia: This is when the duct that drains bile isn’t functioning well, causing similar symptoms to gallbladder issues.
- Pancreatitis: However, since your lipase levels were normal, this is less likely.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This could explain loose stools and discomfort, particularly if stress or dietary changes are influencing your symptoms.
- Dietary Intolerance: It's essential to consider if you have recently introduced any new foods that might upset your digestive system.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including food intake, to identify any potential triggers. Note when the pain occurs relative to meals and any specific foods you eat.
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Modify Your Diet if Needed: Since you're already focused on whole foods, consider temporarily avoiding high-fat foods, dairy, or high-fiber foods that may contribute to digestive upset. Focus on gentle, bland foods (like bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) if you experience nausea or diarrhea.
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Manage Stress Levels: Incorporate mindfulness or relaxation techniques, as stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal discomfort.
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Stay Hydrated: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so ensure you drink plenty of fluids, preferably water or electrolyte solutions.
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Follow-Up: If symptoms persist or worsen, or if you begin experiencing additional symptoms like fever or significant weight loss, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Your proactive approach to health, including managing thyroid conditions and physical activity, is beneficial. Continue to listen to your body and adjust your strategies based on how you feel. If you have further questions or need more personalized advice, feel free to reach out!
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