Intermittent Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

Intermittent stabbing pain in the right upper abdomen?

After undergoing gastroscopy and abdominal ultrasound, the doctor mentioned that there were no significant issues, only excessive gastric acid secretion and a mild gastric ulcer.
After taking medication, I felt much better, but now, about six months later, I have started experiencing sharp pain again.
However, it is not a constant pain; it mostly occurs when I am sitting and there is pressure on the upper abdomen, particularly in the right upper quadrant.
Additionally, since my weight has exceeded 100 kg, I would like to ask the physician if this could have any impact or if it is still related to my stomach or gallbladder issues?

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/12

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, a 23-year-old male presents with intermittent stabbing pain in the right upper abdomen.
He has a history of excessive gastric acid and mild gastric ulcers, which had previously improved.
The symptoms have recurred, with pain exacerbated when sitting.
His weight has recently increased to over 100 kg.
Generally, consumption of sweets and fried foods tends to increase gastric acid and can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Irregular eating habits may also predispose him to gallstones and biliary stone formation.
It is advised to monitor dietary intake, control weight, and avoid overly sweet, oily foods, as well as eating too quickly or to excess.
If symptoms persist, a follow-up examination at the outpatient clinic is recommended.
Wishing you safety and health! Sincerely, Dr.
Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/08/12

More Info

Intermittent upper right abdominal pain can be a source of concern, especially when it recurs after a previous diagnosis of excessive gastric acid secretion and mild gastric ulcers. Given your history and the fact that the pain is triggered by certain positions, such as sitting, it is essential to consider various potential causes and their implications.

Firstly, the upper right abdomen houses several vital organs, including the liver, gallbladder, and parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Pain in this area can arise from various conditions, including but not limited to:
1. Gastric Issues: Since you have a history of gastric ulcers, it's possible that the pain could be related to recurrent ulcer disease or gastritis. Stress, diet, and certain medications can exacerbate these conditions. If the pain is associated with meals or specific foods, it may indicate a connection to your gastric health.

2. Gallbladder Problems: The gallbladder is located in the upper right abdomen and can be a source of pain, especially if gallstones are present. Symptoms of gallbladder issues often include pain after eating fatty meals, nausea, or bloating. Given your weight, which you mentioned is over 100 kg, you may be at a higher risk for gallbladder disease, as obesity is a known risk factor for gallstones.

3. Liver Conditions: The liver can also be a source of pain in the upper right quadrant. Conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis can cause discomfort. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is advisable, especially if you have risk factors such as obesity or a history of liver disease.

4. Musculoskeletal Issues: Sometimes, pain in the upper abdomen can be referred from musculoskeletal problems, especially if it worsens with certain positions. Poor posture, muscle strain, or even rib issues can lead to discomfort that mimics abdominal pain.

5. Pancreatic Issues: Although less common, conditions affecting the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, can cause pain in the upper abdomen. This is typically accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or changes in digestion.

Regarding your weight, being over 100 kg can indeed have implications for your health. Obesity is associated with a higher risk of several gastrointestinal disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gallbladder disease, and fatty liver disease. Weight management through diet and exercise can significantly improve your overall health and potentially alleviate some of your abdominal symptoms.

Given your symptoms and history, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as blood tests to check liver function, imaging studies to evaluate the gallbladder, or even an endoscopy if gastric issues are suspected. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, including weight management, dietary changes, and possibly stress management techniques, can be beneficial in managing your symptoms.

In summary, while your previous diagnosis provides some insight, the recurrence of pain warrants a thorough evaluation to rule out any new or ongoing issues. It is essential to address both the symptoms and the underlying factors contributing to your abdominal pain to ensure comprehensive care and improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Intermittent Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

In recent weeks, I have occasionally experienced pain in the upper right abdomen, mostly after meals, although it does not occur every time I eat. The location of the pain is not fixed; sometimes it is closer to the lower rib cage, other times it is above the navel, sometimes on ...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Most cases are neuropathic pain; local heat application, maintaining proper posture, and avoiding heavy lifting are recommended.

Intermittent Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

Hello doctor, for the past two months, I have occasionally felt a dull pain in the area to the right of my navel. Sometimes the pain is located more towards the upper right, and other times it is more towards the lower right. The discomfort is not persistent and is not very sever...

Dr. Zhang Kebin reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. En: You have been experiencing pain in the right upper abdomen for two months, along with constipation and decreased appetite over the past two weeks. Given the complexity of your symptoms and the presence of the gallbladder, bile ducts, stomach, duodenum, colon, and pa...

Understanding Intermittent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

Hello, Doctor. Recently, for the past two months, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pains in my abdomen. Initially, the pain was located near the right upper quadrant close to the rib cage and in the right lower back (it is more pronounced when lying flat or on my side)...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, neuropathic pain, gastroenteritis, gallbladder, and biliary pancreatic diseases are all possibilities. Hepatic hemangiomas generally do not cause pain. Gastrointestinal bloating and acid reflux may occur. It is recommended to limit foods that can trigger gastric acid, such...

Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

Hello, Dr. Tsai: I have been experiencing dull pain in my upper right abdomen for almost two years. Six months ago, I underwent liver function tests (GOT, GPT) and an ultrasound, both of which returned normal results. The diagnosis was suspected intercostal neuralgia, but in rece...

Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, there are many potential causes for pain in the upper right abdomen, including gallstones, hepatitis, peptic ulcers, or pancreatitis. Additionally, neuropathic pain, functional gastrointestinal disorders, colorectal pathology, or urinary system disorders could also be poss...