Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns

Q: Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns

Dear Ms. <br>N：<br>1. <br>Clinically, common diagnoses for right upper quadrant pain or discomfort include gastric ulcers or inflammation, duodenal ulcers or inflammation, gallbladder or biliary stones, gallbladder or biliary inflammation, liver abscesses or tumors, right lower l

Abdominal issues?

Hello, doctor: I often experience abdominal discomfort and diarrhea.
Yesterday, I felt a slight discomfort in my abdomen and had a bit of an urge to defecate, but after using the restroom, I was unable to have a bowel movement.
Later, before going to bed, I felt some discomfort in the upper abdomen, slightly to the right, but it did not affect my sleep.
This morning, the discomfort in the upper abdomen, still slightly to the right, persists.
I would like to know if there is an issue with a specific area, or if it could simply be due to straining too much while using the restroom?

N, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/20

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
N:
1.
Clinically, common diagnoses for right upper quadrant pain or discomfort include gastric ulcers or inflammation, duodenal ulcers or inflammation, gallbladder or biliary stones, gallbladder or biliary inflammation, liver abscesses or tumors, right lower lobe pneumonia or tumors, lesions at the hepatic flexure of the colon, early shingles, early acute appendicitis, and spasms of the abdominal muscles or diaphragm, among others.
Additionally, there are many less common conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal tumors, vascular diseases, superior mesenteric artery occlusion, autoimmune diseases, gynecological conditions, and anxiety disorders.
2.
Given your young age, medical considerations would likely rule out malignant lesions; however, the true cause still needs to be discussed with your primary care physician or you may seek care at a gastroenterology clinic at a regional hospital or higher.

Reply Date: 2021/07/20

More Info

Abdominal discomfort can arise from a multitude of causes, and understanding the underlying issues is crucial for effective management. Based on your description of experiencing discomfort in the upper right abdomen, along with a history of gastrointestinal issues, there are several potential explanations to consider.

Firstly, the upper right quadrant of the abdomen houses several vital organs, including the liver, gallbladder, and parts of the small intestine. Discomfort in this area could be related to conditions affecting these organs. For instance, gallbladder issues, such as gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), can lead to pain that may be felt in the upper right abdomen. Symptoms often include sharp pain after eating fatty meals, nausea, or even vomiting.

Another possibility is liver-related conditions. Liver inflammation (hepatitis), fatty liver disease, or even liver tumors can manifest as discomfort in the upper right abdomen. If there are accompanying symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or light-colored stools, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation.

Additionally, gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis or peptic ulcers can cause discomfort in the upper abdomen. These conditions may lead to a burning sensation or pain that can sometimes radiate to the back. If you have a history of acid reflux or have been taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), these could exacerbate such symptoms.

Given your mention of experiencing discomfort after using the restroom, it’s also worth considering the possibility of functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation. Stress and anxiety can also play a significant role in exacerbating these symptoms.

It’s important to note that while occasional abdominal discomfort can be benign, persistent or severe pain warrants further investigation. If the discomfort continues or worsens, or if you experience additional symptoms such as fever, significant changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. This may include blood tests, imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan), or endoscopic procedures to visualize the gastrointestinal tract.

In summary, while your discomfort may be related to benign causes such as muscle strain or functional bowel issues, the potential for more serious underlying conditions necessitates careful consideration. Monitoring your symptoms and seeking medical advice when necessary will help ensure that any significant issues are addressed promptly. Remember, your health is paramount, and proactive management is key to maintaining well-being.

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