OpenHealth Q&A

Navigating Health Concerns: A Personal Journey

Age: 43 "I have a nagging feeling that something isn’t quite right with my body. What should I do next? The discomfort has persisted for over two months, and it’s worsening — a sensation I’ve never dealt with until now. For over two decades, I’ve been managing **hyperuricemia** while maintaining an active lifestyle through gym workouts and various physical activities. Every three months, I undergo **regular lab evaluations**. Results are generally acceptable, with the exception of my uric acid levels, which spike only when I’m not on my treatment of **Febuxostat 40mg**. This series of discomfort began in **February**, when I found a troubling rise in my **creatinine levels** (measured by the Jaffe technique). The standard reference range is between 0.400 and 1.400, yet my results showed 1.4. Immediately, I visited a nearby nephrologist, who diagnosed me with **Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)**. The news shocked me and caused a resurgence of my **PTSD**. He recommended an array of kidney assessments, including CBC, sodium and potassium levels, uric acid, serum creatinine, urinalysis, and a full abdominal ultrasound. Fortunately, **all results were within normal limits**, and my creatinine returned to a healthy level. I committed to a **rigorous diet** and enhanced my treadmill routine, vigilantly monitoring my condition for 2-3 months. I sought opinions from several other nephrologists and even a local gastroenterologist, only to find **normal results** persisted throughout multiple tests. The entire incident has led to increased anxiety for me. I adhered to a strict low-carb diet and engaged in **high-intensity workouts**, yet I gradually experienced **pain in my side and back, particularly in the right upper quadrant**. Doctors attributed the discomfort to muscle strain. However, after two decades of fitness training, I recognized that this pain felt unlike anything I had previously encountered, prompting me to doubt their assessments. I was even advised to consult a **psychiatrist** for mental health support. I consented, considering it might indeed be linked to my anxiety. However, despite psychiatric treatment, the pain has persisted, and I’m certain it’s genuine. Unconvinced, I visited a **specialized kidney hospital**. Upon review, the nephrologist there indicated prior tests were insufficient, so he suggested a **thorough evaluation**, including CREA, eGFR, potassium, uACR, UPCR, lipid profile, TPAG, PSA, and a KUB ultrasound. Ultimately, **all results were normal**, save for a recent **ultrasound** that noted signs of **parenchymal kidney disease**, which he assured me appeared benign. To ease my concerns, he arranged for a **Dual/Triple Phase contrast CT scan**. I inquired about the **CKD Stage 2** notation in my medical file, and he clarified that it didn’t hold significant weight — it was merely documented, while the test outcomes were what truly mattered. He reassured me that I’m doing well, scheduling some follow-up assessments in one to three months. Could the pain relate to my **gallbladder surgery from two years ago**? Might that explain the discomfort in my **right upper quadrant and lower back**? The radiologist mentioned it’s common for individuals to experience this type of pain following **laparoscopic cholecystectomy**. What additional evaluations should I consider to definitively confirm my health status? Is there a chance I’m facing another *liver issue*? One of the nephrologists suggested I get an **MRI**, but I **know and sense** this pain isn’t merely muscular. I’ve detailed the findings from my initial tests, the CT scan, and all recommendations in the comments below.

Answers (1)

7/27/2025, 4:30:51 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you are going through a challenging time with your health and experiencing significant discomfort and anxiety. Your history of hyperuricemia and previous kidney issues, coupled with the recent evaluations, understandably raise concerns. It’s important to navigate these feelings and identify any potential underlying causes of your symptoms.

Summary of Key Points:

• Persistent discomfort in the right upper quadrant and back pain, particularly after cholecystectomy, may have multiple causes.
• Your recent tests, including ultrasound and CT scan, returned normal, though you still experience pain.
• Ongoing anxiety and your medical history could be related factors, complicating your perception of the pain.

Explanation:

The pain you are feeling could indeed relate to several factors, including:

1. Post-surgical effects: It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience lingering discomfort after gallbladder surgery, as the body adjusts. This can sometimes be referred to as post-cholecystectomy syndrome, which might include digestive issues or referred pain.
2. Muscle strain or tension: Chronic anxiety can lead to muscle tension, particularly in the back and abdominal areas, which might contribute to discomfort.
3. Other potential sources of pain: Though many tests have returned normal, chronic pain can sometimes stem from less evident sources, such as changes in digestive function or nerve-related issues.

Actionable Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your pain, noting when it occurs, its intensity, and any triggering activities or foods. This information can be valuable for future consultations.
2. Consider Gastrointestinal Evaluation: Given your history, revisit the gastrointestinal aspect with a gastroenterologist who can assess any potential post-surgical complications or related digestive issues.
3. Pain Management Techniques: Utilize non-invasive pain relief strategies such as gentle stretches, physical therapy, or mindfulness techniques to help manage your discomfort and reduce anxiety.
4. Follow-Up on Anxiety Management: Make sure that your mental health support also considers your physical discomfort. Procedures like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may provide you with tools to better cope with pain and anxiety coexistently.

Further Evaluations:

If pain persists despite these measures, it might be worthwhile discussing:

• MRI of the abdomen: To explore deeper structures that might not have been adequately assessed via ultrasound or CT.
• Referral to a pain specialist: Who can help identify chronic pain syndromes and develop a tailored management plan.

In conclusion, although your tests indicate normal results, the ongoing discomfort you feel should not be dismissed. Continue advocating for your health, taking these next steps to gain clarity, while managing both your physical and emotional well-being. Please keep communicating with your healthcare providers about your concerns; it’s crucial they understand the full scope of what you're experiencing.