Liver Cyst Concerns
I am a 36-year-old woman, a non-smoker, who drinks occasionally and maintains a regular exercise routine. My height is 5 feet 2 inches, and I weigh 120 pounds. Recently, I experienced upper mid-abdominal pain for six consecutive days. After consulting with a nurse practitioner at my primary care provider's office, I was advised to undergo an ultrasound of my gallbladder. However, before the scan could take place, the discomfort intensified, leading me to seek treatment at the emergency room. There, I underwent a CT scan with contrast. The medical team reported no abnormalities aside from the discovery of an ovarian cyst. Once I returned home, I accessed my MyChart account to examine the test results in greater detail and noticed a mention of a small cyst on my liver, which had not been discussed during my hospital visit. Should I seek further information regarding this finding? Thank you for your help.
Answers (1)
8/16/2025, 10:50:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
The discovery of a liver cyst can be concerning, but it’s essential to understand that many liver cysts are benign and do not require treatment. Given your recent upper abdominal pain and the findings from your CT scan, it’s important to clarify a few points and prioritize your next steps.
Explanation:
- Liver Cysts: Most liver cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are typically asymptomatic and do not cause any health issues. They are often discovered incidentally during imaging studies like ultrasounds or CT scans.
- Symptoms: Your upper abdominal pain may be related to other factors, such as gallbladder issues or the ovarian cyst, rather than the liver cyst itself.
- Follow-Up: It is crucial to follow up on the liver cyst, especially since it was not discussed during your hospital visit. Understanding the size, type, and nature of the cyst can provide clarity.
Next Steps:
- Seek Clarification: Contact your healthcare provider to discuss the CT scan results specifically, focusing on the liver cyst. Ask for details such as size and whether any further evaluation, such as follow-up imaging, is necessary.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of any abdominal pain or other symptoms. Note when they occur, the intensity, and any possible triggers.
- Follow Routine Health Care: Continue with regular check-ups and follow-ups with your healthcare team to maintain awareness of your overall health, especially if abdominal pain persists or changes occur.
Feel free to ask more questions if you need help understanding the specifics of your liver cyst or if you want assistance interpreting medical information.
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