Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps - Surgery

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Right upper abdominal pain can be a complex symptom with various potential causes, and it’s understandable that you feel frustrated and uncertain about your situation. Given your description, it’s important to consider several factors and possible diagnoses.

Firstly, yes, women can indeed experience hernias, including inguinal hernias, which are more common in men but can occur in women as well. Hernias happen when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. In the case of right upper abdominal pain, it could also be related to other conditions such as gallbladder issues, liver problems, or gastrointestinal disorders.

Some common causes of right upper abdominal pain include:
1. Gallbladder Disease: Conditions like gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) can cause pain in the right upper quadrant, especially after eating fatty meals.

2. Liver Issues: Liver conditions, including hepatitis or fatty liver disease, can also manifest as pain in the right upper abdomen. Given your history of chronic hepatitis B, it’s essential to monitor liver function closely.

3. Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can lead to discomfort in the upper abdomen.

4. Musculoskeletal Pain: Sometimes, pain in this area can be due to muscle strain or injury, especially if you have been engaging in physical activities that may have strained your abdominal muscles.

5. Pancreatitis: Although less common, inflammation of the pancreas can cause pain that radiates to the upper abdomen.

6. Hernias: As mentioned, hernias can occur in women and may present as localized pain, especially if there is a bulge or if the pain increases with certain movements or activities.

Given that you have already consulted with both a gynecologist and a family medicine physician, and they have ruled out gynecological issues, it may be beneficial to see a gastroenterologist or a general surgeon. A gastroenterologist can evaluate for any gastrointestinal causes, while a general surgeon can assess for hernias or other surgical conditions.

In terms of diagnostic tests, your healthcare provider may recommend:
- Ultrasound: This is often the first imaging test for gallbladder and liver issues.

- CT Scan: A more detailed imaging study that can help identify various abdominal conditions.

- Blood Tests: To check liver function, signs of infection, or inflammation.

- Endoscopy: If gastrointestinal issues are suspected, an endoscopy may be warranted to visualize the upper digestive tract.

It’s crucial to keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and any associated factors (like meals or activities). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.

In summary, while right upper abdominal pain can stem from various causes, it’s essential to pursue further evaluation with the appropriate specialists. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself and seek the necessary tests to get to the bottom of your discomfort. Your health is paramount, and understanding the underlying cause of your pain is the first step toward effective treatment and relief.