[23F] With right-sided abdominal pain and gallbladder inflammation

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female has been experiencing right-sided abdominal pain for about a month. The pain is primarily dull but can become sharp, radiating to the back and shoulder. It occurs approximately every two weeks, lasting a couple of days, with a severity of 4 out of 10. Certain foods trigger rapid diarrhea, though specific foods are unidentified. The patient also reports a sharp ache in the back, concurrent with the abdominal pain. There is mild nausea but no vomiting, fever, chills, or jaundice. A HIDA scan indicated gallbladder inflammation, with normal ejection but delayed tracer uptake (90 minutes). Family history includes maternal gallbladder removal. The patient is temporarily on penicillin for a tooth infection, taken four times daily, with no known medication allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms and the HIDA scan results, a possible explanation could be:

  • Gallbladder Inflammation (Cholecystitis): This condition occurs when the gallbladder becomes inflamed, often due to gallstones blocking the bile ducts. Your symptoms of right-sided abdominal pain radiating to the back and shoulder, along with nausea, align with this condition. The delayed tracer in your HIDA scan suggests possible issues with bile flow.
    • Typical Treatment: Treatment may include dietary changes, medications to manage pain and inflammation, and in some cases, surgery to remove the gallbladder if symptoms persist or worsen.

What you can do

  1. Dietary Adjustments: Try to identify and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms, such as fatty or greasy foods. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help with digestion and overall health.
  3. Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track any food triggers, and monitor your progress. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.
  4. Consult a Doctor: Follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and the results of your HIDA scan. They can provide a formal diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain that doesn't go away
  • Fever or chills
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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2 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of gallbladder inflammation?

Common symptoms of gallbladder inflammation, or cholecystitis, include right-sided abdominal pain that may radiate to the back or shoulder, nausea, vomiting, fever, and sometimes jaundice. The pain can be triggered by eating fatty foods.

How is a HIDA scan used to diagnose gallbladder issues?

A HIDA scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that evaluates the function of the gallbladder. It involves injecting a radioactive tracer into the bloodstream, which is then taken up by the liver and excreted into the bile. The scan tracks the flow of bile from the liver into the gallbladder and small intestine, helping to identify blockages or inflammation.

What dietary changes can help manage gallbladder inflammation?

To manage gallbladder inflammation, it is recommended to avoid fatty, greasy, or fried foods, as these can trigger symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and staying hydrated can also help. Identifying specific food triggers through a food diary may be beneficial.

When should someone with gallbladder issues seek medical attention?

Medical attention should be sought if there is severe abdominal pain that does not subside, fever or chills, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or persistent nausea or vomiting, as these could indicate complications or worsening of the condition.

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