Left Upper Abdominal Fullness and Back Discomfort
I am a 34-year-old man who uses nicotine through vaping, does not take any medications, and consumes alcohol on weekends, averaging about 5 to 10 drinks. I have a history of heavier alcohol consumption, but recent liver tests have returned normal results. My blood pressure is stable. For the past few weeks, I have been experiencing a sensation of fullness in the left side of my abdomen, just beneath the ribs. This feeling is often accompanied by a dull pain on my back in the same area. Additionally, I’ve noticed an increase in gas that seems tough to pass, along with some bouts of constipation. Although my stool generally appears normal—considering my history with IBS, which causes fluctuations—there have been no signs of fatigue, unintentional weight loss, or changes in my urine output. Given these symptoms, I’m wondering if this could simply be a case of trapped gas or constipation-related issues, or if it might be wise for me to consult a physician regarding potential problems with my pancreas, kidneys, or liver.
Answers (1)
8/16/2025, 11:01:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
You are experiencing discomfort and fullness in your left upper abdomen, along with back pain and gastrointestinal changes, which can be concerning. While these symptoms might suggest issues like gas, constipation, or even gastrointestinal distress related to your history of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it’s essential to approach this thoughtfully.
Explanation:
The symptoms you describe—abdominal fullness, back pain, increased gas, and constipation—can be linked to various causes. Given your IBS history, it’s possible that your symptoms stem from a flare-up of this condition or dietary factors. However, considering your lifestyle choices, like alcohol consumption and nicotine use, these could influence your gastrointestinal health as well.
Although it's less likely that there are serious underlying issues with your pancreas, kidneys, or liver because of your normal liver tests and absence of severe symptoms, it’s vital to monitor your condition closely.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of when the fullness and pain occur, how intense they are, and any changes related to your diet or lifestyle. Noting these patterns can be helpful for any future consultations.
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Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber and hydration, which can help regulate your bowel movements and reduce gas. Avoid high-fat or spicy foods that might trigger IBS symptoms.
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Stay Hydrated: Increasing your water intake can assist in alleviating constipation and improving digestion.
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Consider Reducing Alcohol & Vaping: Since both alcohol and nicotine can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, consider cutting back or eliminating these substances temporarily to see if your symptoms improve.
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Gentle Exercise: Regular light exercise can enhance digestive function and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with gas and constipation.
If your symptoms persist, worsen, or you develop any new concerning signs (such as severe pain, changes in stool characteristics, fever, or yellowing of the skin), it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
Please let me know if you need more specific advice or details!
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