Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns

Q: Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns

Hello： First of all, it's important to note that neuropathic pain can occur anywhere, as nerves are present throughout the body. <br>Generally speaking, pain in the stomach and duodenum is often experienced when fasting, while gallbladder pain typically occurs after meals. <br>If

Left upper abdominal discomfort?

Hello, Doctor: I apologize for bothering you again.
I have been experiencing discomfort and pain in my upper left abdomen, which prompted me to return for a follow-up examination.
However, the doctor still suspects that the discomfort is caused by my previous duodenal ulcer (the previous pain was in the upper right abdomen), and therefore did not perform any tests.
I asked the doctor if it could be related to my pancreas, spleen, or other issues, but the doctor insisted it was still due to the ulcer and prescribed a month’s worth of gastric medication, advising me to return if the pain persists.
However, I feel that the pain is not related to the ulcer, as it feels different.
What should I do, Doctor? If it is another issue, will delaying for a month have any consequences? Is it possible to have nerve pain in the upper abdomen? A small clinic told me it was nerve pain and that I shouldn't worry about it...
(I really need your valuable advice, Doctor.)

xì, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/03/12

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: First of all, it's important to note that neuropathic pain can occur anywhere, as nerves are present throughout the body.
Generally speaking, pain in the stomach and duodenum is often experienced when fasting, while gallbladder pain typically occurs after meals.
If there are concerns regarding liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic issues, an ultrasound can be performed.
As for the spleen, it is located in the upper left abdomen and rarely shows pathological changes.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Chih-Feng, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2013/03/12

More Info

Left upper abdominal discomfort can be a complex issue, as it may arise from various underlying conditions. Your symptoms, including the persistent pain, discomfort after eating, and the sensation of something being "stuck," warrant a thorough evaluation. While your physician suspects a history of duodenal ulcers as the cause of your discomfort, it is essential to consider other potential causes, especially since you feel the pain may not align with ulcer-related symptoms.

The left upper quadrant of the abdomen houses several vital organs, including the stomach, spleen, pancreas, and parts of the colon. Pain in this area can stem from gastrointestinal issues, such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, conditions affecting the spleen or pancreas, such as splenic enlargement or pancreatitis, could also manifest as left upper abdominal pain.

Your description of the pain being different from what you experienced with ulcers is significant. It suggests that the underlying cause may not solely be related to your previous diagnosis. The sensation of pain radiating to the back and the intermittent nature of your discomfort could indicate a more complex issue, such as referred pain from the pancreas or even musculoskeletal causes.

Given that you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, including duodenal ulcers, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you develop new symptoms such as fever, jaundice, or significant changes in bowel habits, it is imperative to seek further medical evaluation. A gastroenterologist may recommend additional diagnostic tests, such as an upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) to directly visualize the stomach and duodenum, or imaging studies like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to assess the organs in the left upper quadrant.

Regarding your concern about nerve pain, it is possible for abdominal pain to have a neuropathic component, especially if there is irritation or compression of the nerves in the area. However, this is less common and typically would be considered after ruling out more common gastrointestinal causes.

In summary, while your physician's initial assessment may lean towards a history of ulcers, it is essential to advocate for your health. If you feel that your symptoms are not improving with the prescribed medication or if they are changing in nature, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or request further investigations. Delaying diagnosis and treatment can lead to complications, especially if an underlying condition requires timely intervention. Always trust your instincts about your health, and ensure that you receive the comprehensive care you deserve.

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