Feeling Confused? Nerve Issues or Overreaction?
To provide some background, earlier this January, I experienced severe bloating along with spasms in the upper right side of my abdomen and some discomfort on the left side. My abdomen felt consistently tight, almost as though I was tensing those muscles, despite being completely relaxed. Occasionally, I felt a burning sensation in the upper right area that was more of a warm feeling. I also experienced significant trapped gas and fluctuations in my blood pressure. I lost 35 pounds in under a month, which led me to undergo a HIDA scan of my gallbladder on January 30 or 31. This procedure took an unusually long time, and the result showed a zero percent ejection fraction, leading to a diagnosis of biliary dyskinesia. Consequently, I had my gallbladder removed just a week later. Since then, most of my symptoms have subsided with the exception of occasional constipation and a mild tight sensation, although it’s much less intense than before. I still sometimes feel spasms, but the overall band-like sensation encircling my upper abdomen lingered until just recently. Currently, that area feels numb; I can scratch it and feel some sensation, yet there is a persistent feeling of numbness beneath the surface. Interestingly, my frequent belching has ceased, but so has my appetite. I work in an office environment where I often twist my body to relieve tension in my back, and I realize that my posture isn’t the best. Could this tightness and numbness be related to a nerve issue?
Answers (1)
8/28/2025, 2:11:58 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you have been through a significant health journey, and it's understandable to feel concerned about the persistent sensations you're experiencing. Based on your description, it’s possible that the tightness and numbness you’re feeling could be related to several factors, including nerve irritation or post-surgical changes, especially after gallbladder removal.
Understanding Your Symptoms:
After gallbladder surgery, some people report ongoing abdominal sensations, which can be due to nerve irritation, muscle tightness, or even changes in digestion. Numbness can sometimes occur if nearby nerves have been affected or irritated during surgery. Additionally, poor posture or frequent twisting can contribute to muscle and nerve-related sensations in your abdomen and back.
Next Steps to Consider:
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Posture and Ergonomics:
- Focus on improving your posture at work. Consider using ergonomic furniture, such as a chair that supports your lower back and a desk set up to avoid twisting your body excessively.
- Engage in stretching or strengthening exercises for your back and abdomen. Gentle yoga or Pilates can be beneficial in improving core strength and flexibility.
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Nerve Care:
- If the numbness persists, consider gentle stretching or massage in the affected area to alleviate tension.
- Heat therapy, like a warm compress, might help reduce discomfort and promote relaxation.
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Diet and Hydration:
- Since you mentioned occasional constipation, ensure you're drinking plenty of water and incorporating high-fiber foods into your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This can help regulate your digestive health and might ease some abdominal sensations.
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Observation:
- Keep track of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any activities that seem to worsen them. This can help identify potential triggers and monitor changes over time.
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Consult with Healthcare Professionals:
- If your symptoms of tightness, numbness, or any new sensations persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to follow up with a healthcare professional. They can evaluate for potential nerve-related issues and provide targeted treatment options if needed.
Reassurance:
It’s essential to be mindful of your body, and it's good that you’re paying attention to these sensations. Post-surgical changes can take time to resolve, and while it’s normal to feel some nervous about lingering symptoms, follow through with self-care steps and observation. If you have any new or worsening symptoms such as increased pain, loss of sensation, or digestive changes, address those promptly with a healthcare provider for peace of mind.
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