Discomfort in the Upper Right Abdomen During Movement
30-year-old male. Currently taking propranolol at a dose of 10 mg and cholestyramine at 4 g daily. Underwent gallbladder removal surgery in March. Medical history includes chronic daily migraines, also known as status migrainosus, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and conditions related to depression and anxiety. Diagnostic imaging included a CT scan with contrast and an abdominal ultrasound, revealing the gallbladder was filled with sludge prior to removal. Additionally, tests indicated fatty liver. The CT scan confirmed the presence of fatty liver and a slight enlargement, while the results from the FibroScan showed significant fat accumulation in the liver without any fibrosis present. Laboratory tests were largely normal, except for a calcium level of 10.3; liver enzymes were within normal limits, although there was a spike in ALT levels for three weeks post-surgery. Bilirubin levels were normal as well. Pancreatic function has also remained stable during initial evaluations. Alcohol use consists of approximately 20 drinks on weekends. Since the gallbladder surgery in March, I've experienced discomfort in my upper right abdomen, particularly in the area where the gallbladder previously was. This sensation intensifies with certain twisting or stretching movements and when bending forward. Additionally, I've been having unusual diarrhea, with stools appearing to have a higher fat content (notably floating), and there's an overall sense that my body is not functioning as it should. I'm open to providing any further details if necessary.
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 6:50:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing discomfort in your upper right abdomen after gallbladder removal, alongside digestive issues like unusual diarrhea. This can be concerning, but there are ways we can focus on improving your situation.
Key Points:
- Possible Causes: Post-surgical pain in the upper right abdomen and changes in bowel habits can be related to several factors, including bile salt diarrhea, post-cholecystectomy syndrome, or even tension in the abdominal muscles from movement.
- Lifestyle Changes: Addressing your diet and alcohol intake may help reduce symptoms associated with fat malabsorption and liver health.
Explanation:
After gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), some people experience abdominal discomfort and changes in digestion. The gallbladder's role is to store bile, which helps digest fats. Without it, bile continuously drips into the intestines, which can sometimes lead to excessive fat in the stool (steatorrhea) and abdominal discomfort when consuming fat-rich foods.
In your case, the elevated alcohol intake combined with fatty liver may be contributing to gastrointestinal symptoms. Additionally, anxiety and stress can impact digestion and exacerbate discomfort, especially in someone with a history of anxiety.
Next Steps:
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Dietary Adjustments: Temporarily reduce your intake of fatty foods and alcohol. Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Smaller, more frequent meals can also help alleviate discomfort.
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Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of water, as it can aid digestion and help reduce stool consistency issues.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when discomfort occurs and any dietary triggers. This can help identify patterns and improve management.
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Physical Activity: Engage in gentle physical activity such as walking or stretching to improve digestion and reduce discomfort. However, avoid movements that exacerbate your abdominal pain.
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Stress Management: Explore stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or talking to a therapist, which may help alleviate your overall symptoms.
If your symptoms persist, worsen, or you notice other concerning signs like severe pain, blood in your stool, or significant changes in your weight, consider reaching out for further evaluation for targeted management options.
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