Seeking Advice for Severe Chronic Abdominal Pain in a Young Woman
I experience severe, persistent discomfort on the upper right side of my abdomen, characterized by an intense dull ache that leaves me feeling somewhat breathless. This pain has been recurring intermittently for several years, roughly since 2018. Despite trying various pain relief methods, including painkillers and Tums, I have found no relief. I initially suspected it could be heartburn, but since it is not localized near my heart, I'm not so sure. The episodes can linger for hours or even longer, making it quite difficult for me to find comfort or sleep. I am an 18-year-old female, standing at 5’3” and weighing 107 pounds. My medical regimen includes spironolactone at a dosage of 25mg twice a day, along with Tarina Fe birth control. Additionally, I have a diagnosis of minor thalassemia, but apart from that, I don’t face any significant health issues. I’m reaching out in hopes that someone might offer assistance or insight into my situation, as I feel quite desperate for answers.
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 6:40:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are dealing with significant abdominal discomfort that has been quite distressing for you, and it's understandable that you're seeking help to understand it better. Chronic abdominal pain in the upper right side can stem from various causes, and it’s important to explore these while focusing on relief and comfort.
Main Points:
- The location and nature of your pain can be indicative of several possible issues, ranging from gastrointestinal to gallbladder-related concerns.
- Given the duration and severity of your symptoms, a thorough evaluation is important to identify the underlying cause.
Explanation:
The upper right side of your abdomen houses several organs, including the liver, gallbladder, and parts of the intestines. The dull ache you describe, along with feeling breathless, could suggest irritation or inflammation in that area, potentially linked to conditions like gallstones, acid reflux, or even gastrointestinal issues. Chronic pain that does not respond to typical pain relievers suggests that it may need more focused investigation.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Start a diary to track when your pain occurs, how long it lasts, and any activities, foods, or events that precede it. This can help identify patterns or triggers.
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Dietary Changes: While you're monitoring your symptoms, try to adopt a bland diet that is low in spicy, fatty, and acidic foods, which might help reduce irritation. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also alleviate discomfort.
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Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the affected area may help soothe the pain temporarily.
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Gentle Movement: Engage in light activities like walking or yoga, which may help improve circulation and reduce stress, potentially impacting pain levels positively.
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Consider Alternatives: You might explore over-the-counter medications like simethicone (for gas) or probiotics for digestive health, but it's important to do this cautiously and take note of any changes.
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Follow-Up Plan: Since the pain has been persistent for years with no clear relief from common methods, if symptoms do not improve or worsen, please advocate for comprehensive evaluations, such as an ultrasound or other imaging studies, that can help clarify what's happening.
I truly empathize with your situation and the frustration of living with chronic pain without clear answers. Taking these steps will hopefully provide you with some relief and guidance toward understanding your condition better. If any red flags occur—like sudden, severe pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), or significant changes in your health—consider reaching out for medical evaluation promptly.
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