[35F] Experiencing upper right quadrant pain and intermittent chest discomfort

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing symptoms like chest pain, burning sensation in the chest, and gas.

  • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, your doctor might recommend prescription medications or surgery.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. The symptoms can include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating.

  • The treatment usually involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which helps relieve gastritis symptoms and promotes healing.

• Gallstones or Post-Cholecystectomy Syndrome: Even though you mentioned that you do not have a gallbladder anymore, it is possible to still have symptoms related to gallstones or a condition called Post-Cholecystectomy Syndrome. This can cause symptoms similar to those produced by gallstones, such as abdominal pain and bloating.

  • Treatment can range from watchful waiting to medications to dissolve gallstones or surgery.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and constipation or diarrhea, or both.

  • Treatment of IBS is usually focused on relieving symptoms. A variety of treatments can help, including dietary adjustments, medication, and stress management.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Avoid foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms. Common triggers include alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, spicy foods, and greasy foods.
2. Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day rather than three large meals.
3. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
4. Try over-the-counter remedies for gas and constipation. For gas, remedies such as simethicone can help break up the bubbles in your gut. For constipation, fiber supplements or a gentle laxative could help.
5. Try to manage stress. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga may help reduce symptoms.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with dietary changes and over-the-counter treatments.
• If you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or notice blood or a black color in your stool.
• If you experience unexplained weight loss or fatigue.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.