Tightness and a sharp, burning sensation in the right upper abdomen?
Recently, I have been experiencing a tight sensation in the upper right abdomen (approximately from above the navel to just below the rib cage) that sometimes feels warm.
This has persisted for about a month and a half.
At the end of last month, I had an abdominal ultrasound which showed no abnormalities, only mild fatty liver.
Subsequently, I underwent an upper endoscopy and colonoscopy, which revealed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis, and two benign polyps were removed.
The doctor prescribed gastric medication, which I have been taking for about two weeks.
The occasional nausea I previously experienced has disappeared, but I still have intermittent tightness and a prickly warm sensation in the upper right abdomen.
I have noticed a pattern: when I lie down to rest at night, I almost never feel this discomfort, but during the day while I am active, I frequently experience these sensations.
They come and go, and while they are not painful, they feel tight and warm.
"It happens every day." After resting, the symptoms seem to lessen, which is quite bothersome.
I would like to ask if there are any muscles in this area that could cause similar symptoms.
Thank you, doctor.
Liu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/27
Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation
It is likely still gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastritis irritating the diaphragm and phrenic nerve.
It is recommended to complete the treatment for GERD and then observe the situation.
Reply Date: 2021/12/27
More Info
The symptoms you describe, particularly the tightness and heat sensation in the upper right abdomen, can be quite concerning and warrant a thorough understanding of the potential underlying causes. Given that you have already undergone several diagnostic tests, including an abdominal ultrasound, gastroscopy, and colonoscopy, it is essential to consider both gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal factors that might contribute to your discomfort.
From a gastrointestinal perspective, you mentioned having mild fatty liver, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and gastritis, along with the removal of benign polyps. While these conditions can cause discomfort, the specific sensation of tightness and heat may not be directly attributable to them. GERD and gastritis can lead to symptoms like burning sensations, but the localized tightness you describe could suggest other issues.
One possibility is that the tightness and heat sensation could be related to the muscles in the abdominal wall or the diaphragm. The abdominal muscles, particularly the rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis, can become tense due to various factors, including stress, poor posture, or overuse. Additionally, the diaphragm, which separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity, can also contribute to sensations of tightness if it is not functioning optimally. When you are active during the day, these muscles may be more engaged, leading to the sensations you experience. Conversely, when you lie down to rest, the engagement of these muscles decreases, which may explain why your symptoms improve at night.
Another consideration is the possibility of referred pain or discomfort from other structures in the area, such as the liver, gallbladder, or even the kidneys. While your ultrasound did not show any significant abnormalities, it is worth noting that conditions like gallbladder disease or liver inflammation can sometimes present with vague symptoms that are not easily identifiable through imaging alone.
Given that your symptoms have persisted for over a month and are causing you distress, it may be beneficial to explore further evaluations. Here are a few recommendations:
1. Musculoskeletal Evaluation: Consider consulting a physical therapist or a specialist in musculoskeletal medicine. They can assess your posture, muscle tension, and any potential trigger points that may be contributing to your symptoms.
2. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and muscle tension, incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises may help alleviate your discomfort.
3. Dietary Considerations: Pay attention to your diet, as certain foods can exacerbate symptoms of GERD and gastritis. Keeping a food diary may help identify any potential triggers.
4. Follow-Up with Your Physician: Since you have already had several tests, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. Discuss your ongoing symptoms and consider whether further imaging or tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, might be warranted to rule out any other underlying conditions.
In summary, while your symptoms may be related to gastrointestinal issues, it is essential to consider the role of the musculoskeletal system and other factors that may contribute to your discomfort. A comprehensive approach that includes physical evaluation, stress management, and dietary adjustments may provide relief and improve your overall well-being.
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