Unexplained Abdominal Discomfort and Nausea in Pregnancy
A 35-year-old woman, currently 28 weeks into her pregnancy, has a history of gestational diabetes and otherwise maintains good health. For the past three days, she has experienced a pronounced discomfort, located approximately 2-3 inches beneath her ribcage and around 2 centimeters to the right of center. While the pain is manageable when seated, it intensifies significantly during deep breaths, walking, coughing, or turning her body. In addition to this discomfort, she has been experiencing increasing nausea, which has worsened today, accompanied by a headache and a general sense of malaise. Yesterday, she sought medical attention at the emergency room where numerous blood tests were performed, including assessments related to her pancreas, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) was conducted. All results returned normal. Interestingly, she also had an ultrasound for the baby on the same day, which showed no abnormalities. A urine test was conducted, but results were unremarkable. She reports that her eating and drinking habits remain unchanged, though she does have mild constipation and has noticed less frequent flatulence. Urination appears normal. The attending physician suggested that the pain may be due to trapped gas. However, she describes her previous experiences with trapped gas as producing more of a dull ache located lower in her abdomen. This current sensation is sharp, leading her to feel as if something might rupture or burst within her. Is there any insight into what this issue could be? Might the experience of trapped gas feel different due to the changes associated with pregnancy?
Answers (1)
2/11/2026, 4:50:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about abdominal discomfort and nausea during pregnancy, especially as you're nearing the end of your second trimester. While your recent medical tests were all normal, it's important to address your symptoms thoughtfully.
The discomfort you're describing, particularly being sharp, located under the ribcage, and worsening with movement, can stem from several potential sources. Pregnancy causes various physical changes, and sometimes that can lead to symptoms that feel different than what you have experienced in the past, such as trapped gas. Additionally, conditions like gallbladder issues, muscle strain, or even gastroesophageal reflux can present similar discomfort during pregnancy.
Key Points:
- Potential Causes: Your symptoms might relate to pregnancy-related changes, potential trapped gas, digestive issues, or muscle strain.
- Nausea and Discomfort: The increased nausea and malaise also warrant attention, especially since you are experiencing headaches.
Actionable Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting when and how they change throughout the day. This includes recording any dietary changes, activity levels, and how the pain responds to different movements.
-
Diet Adjustments: Consider modifying your diet slightly to ease digestion. Smaller, frequent meals can help minimize discomfort and nausea. Avoid foods known to create gas, like beans, carbonated drinks, and certain vegetables.
-
Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Try sipping water regularly, and if solid food feels challenging, consider clear broths or electrolyte drinks.
-
Gentle Movement: Engage in gentle walking or stretching to help alleviate discomfort, making sure to avoid movements that intensify the pain. This could help with gas buildup or tension.
-
Relaxation Techniques: Manage nausea through relaxation techniques like deep breathing. Since deep breaths increase discomfort, practicing a slow and controlled breathing technique can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
-
Heat Therapy: Applying a warm (not hot) compress to the area of discomfort may help alleviate some of the sharp pain you’re experiencing. Make sure to ensure the heat is safe during pregnancy.
When to Seek Help:
- If the sharp pain worsens significantly or becomes excruciating.
- If you experience additional worrying symptoms such as fever, prolonged vomiting, severe headache, or changes in your baby’s movements.
- Any signs of dehydration (like decreased urination, dizziness) should prompt immediate attention.
While trapped gas can manifest differently during pregnancy, your specific experiences are precious clues for understanding what's happening. Keeping your healthcare provider updated on your symptoms, especially those that grow more severe, is key to ensuring both your well-being and your baby's health.
Related Questions
Considering a Third Surgery for Biceps Tenodesis Revision?
**Summary:** I have undergone two unsuccessful biceps tenodesis procedures in 2022. I'm still facing issues with biomechanics, heightened tension in my posterior chain, and a noticeable decline in strength. After a fresh MRI conducted in February 2026, I am exploring the option of a comprehensive revision that involves an anatomical or near-anatomical reattachment of the long head of my biceps tendon. I am open to traveling and covering expenses for this surgery. **Detailed Account:** As an athlete and bodybuilder, I experienced a significant shoulder injury in May 2022 while lifting dumbbells, which resulted in a torn labrum. Despite six months of physical therapy, I saw no improvement in my functionality or pain, which compelled me to pursue surgical options. The first surgery I underwent involved arthroscopic labrum repair along with a suprapectoral biceps tenodesis, aimed at alleviating ongoing pain in my right forearm. The labrum repair was successful; however, the biceps tenodesis did not yield the desired results. In response, a revision surgery was performed using a subpectoral technique. Since then, I have remained active and committed to my rehabilitation process. Although the revision surgery was deemed successful, I continue to suffer from pain in my posterior shoulder, dysfunctional biomechanics in my right arm and shoulder, leading to weakness and an imbalance in strength, alongside a persistent feeling that my arm is misaligned. I am now considering the possibility of a further surgical intervention that would aim for an anatomical restoration of the long head of my biceps tendon to a more correct position, potentially through graft extension and either intra-articular or suprapectoral reattachment. What do you think? I’m willing to share my medical notes and recent imaging with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance on this matter.
Should I Visit the ER or Urgent Care?
I’m a 54-year-old woman currently using methadone, clonidine, and zofran due to my gastroparesis and high blood pressure. I am also a smoker and occasionally use cannabis. Last night, I may have overindulged and ended up dozing off, subsequently falling directly on my knee from a height of about three feet. The pain is excruciating, accompanied by significant swelling and minimal bruising. In my past experience of fracturing my foot, it took several days for the bruising to extend from my knee to my ankle. I struggle to apply any pressure on my knee, and bending it induces intense pain; even trying to apply ice is problematic due to the added weight causing severe discomfort. Should I seek help at the emergency room or consider urgent care for this injury?
Understanding Mole Biopsy Findings
I’m reaching out to see if anyone can help interpret my biopsy results. I've been trying to contact my physician for the past two days since the results appeared on my patient portal, but I've had no luck. Thank you in advance for any insights you can provide! - Diagnosis: Dysplastic compound melanocytic nevus exhibiting moderate atypia, with clear margins. (Refer to the detailed note below for further information). **Detailed Note:** The biopsy indicates an uneven growth of melanocytes that are organized in clusters as well as individual cells, which are noted near the edges and at the tips of the rete ridges. These melanocytes show variability in structure, characterized by enlarged nuclei and ample amphophilic cytoplasm. Additionally, similarly structured melanocytes can be identified in superficial dermal nests and cords, with evidence of progressive maturation as they descend. Importantly, the margins are clear of any involvement. ### Personal Information for Reference: - **Age:** 31 - **Gender:** Female - **Height:** 5 feet 1 inch - **Weight:** 130 pounds - **Ethnicity:** Caucasian - **Duration of Symptoms:** 2 days - **Location:** United States
Knee Injury Sustained While Playing Hockey
I am a 14-year-old, standing approximately 5'11" tall and weighing around 180 pounds. I do not smoke, use vaping products, or consume any illicit drugs, but I have some concerns regarding my injury. Recently, my hockey skates were improperly sharpened, which made it difficult for me to stop effectively while skating. When I attempted to brake, I lost my balance and crashed knee-first into the boards. This incident occurred around four hours ago. Since then, I have been applying ice frequently to the affected area. Currently, I am experiencing a mild limp, and my knee is noticeably swollen; however, I have not observed any bruising as of now. I have yet to consult a physician about this injury.
Surgery for Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the Wrist
At 18 years old and standing tall at 6'1", I lead a healthy lifestyle without any previous or existing health issues. Unfortunately, I need to undergo a surgical procedure for Avascular Necrosis (AVN) affecting my right wrist. The operation is referred to as "medial femoral trochlea flap for lunate reconstruction of the right wrist, with a potential partial wrist fusion". I have been informed that following the surgery, I will need to immobilize my wrist in a cast and wear a brace on my leg. I’m not entirely sure if this inquiry fits within the context of this subreddit; my apologies if it doesn't, but I would like to know whether I can continue my job as a dishwasher during my recovery. How long should I anticipate being away from work? The cast is expected to remain for approximately 8 months, while I'll be in the brace for about 6 weeks. Is it possible to have a waterproof cast?