Right Upper Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea: Possible Causes and Concerns

Right upper quadrant pain and diarrhea?

Hello, Director Chen.
This Monday (4/20), I started feeling slight discomfort in my upper right abdomen.
On Tuesday (4/21), I experienced diarrhea (twice), and the next day (4/22), I had another episode.
After that, I began eating porridge and toast.
Currently (4/26), I still feel continuous peristalsis in my abdomen, and I still experience discomfort when eating, along with occasional burning sensations.
However, I have not had diarrhea since then.
Additionally, I am unsure if it's psychological, but I feel that my abdomen has become somewhat harder (I am naturally very thin).
PS: I have already visited a clinic, but it was just a brief consultation, and they prescribed some gastrointestinal medications and pain relievers.
If I don't take the pain medication, I feel uncomfortable, but taking it definitely helps.
I would like to ask you, Director, could this be a sign of a serious illness?

den, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/26

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It may be due to incomplete recovery from enteritis; continue with dietary and medication treatment.
If discomfort persists, further examination at the hospital may be necessary.

Reply Date: 2020/04/26

More Info

Right upper abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea can be concerning, and it’s important to consider a variety of potential causes. The symptoms you describe, including discomfort in the right upper abdomen, diarrhea, and a sensation of burning, could be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues.
One common cause of right upper abdominal pain is gallbladder-related issues, such as gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder). Gallstones can obstruct the bile duct, leading to pain, especially after eating fatty meals. The burning sensation you mentioned could also be related to acid reflux or gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining. Both conditions can cause discomfort in the upper abdomen and may be exacerbated by certain foods.

Another possibility is a liver-related issue, especially if there are any underlying conditions such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease. The liver is located in the right upper quadrant, and inflammation or enlargement can lead to discomfort. Additionally, if you have a history of any liver disease, it would be prudent to consider this as a potential cause.

Infectious causes should also be considered. Gastroenteritis, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, can lead to diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. If you have experienced any recent travel, changes in diet, or exposure to contaminated food or water, this could be a factor.
It’s also worth noting that psychological factors, such as anxiety or stress, can manifest physically and contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms. Anxiety can lead to increased gut motility, which may explain the sensation of your abdomen feeling "hard" or experiencing increased peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions in the intestines).

Given that you have already consulted a physician and received gastrointestinal medication, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the discomfort persists or worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or severe pain, you should seek further medical evaluation. Diagnostic tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be necessary to rule out more serious conditions.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to common gastrointestinal issues, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and consult with your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve. They may recommend further testing or a referral to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, for a more comprehensive evaluation. Your health is paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can help prevent potential complications.

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