[35M] Experiencing persistent upper right abdominal pain

Patient Description

A 35-year-old male has been experiencing a constant knot-like pain in the upper right abdomen for four months, with a severity of 6 out of 10. The pain occasionally radiates to the right shoulder blade. The patient notes swelling in the area of discomfort but reports no changes in bowel movements, which appear normal, and no discoloration of the skin or eyes. There are no accompanying symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting. The patient has no known allergies, is not on any medications, and has no past medical history of chronic illnesses or conditions.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Gallstones: These are hard deposits in your gallbladder, a small organ under the liver. The pain from gallstones, also called biliary colic, can be severe and usually occurs in the right upper part of your abdomen. Gallstones can also cause pain in the right shoulder blade.

    • Treatment of gallstones may involve surgery to remove the gallbladder or medications to dissolve the gallstones.
  • Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining. Gastritis can cause pain in the upper right abdomen, but it's more common in the upper left or middle.

    • Treatment of gastritis usually involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, avoiding hot and spicy foods, and abstaining from alcohol.
  • Peptic Ulcer: These are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is burning abdominal pain.

    • Treatment of peptic ulcers involves antibiotics and drugs to reduce stomach acid.

Please note that these are only possible diagnoses and you should consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen can help with the pain. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin, as they can worsen stomach pain.
  2. Heat: Applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to your abdomen can help relax your muscles and relieve pain.
  3. Diet: Try to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day. Avoid foods and drinks that seem to trigger your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes
  • Dark or bloody stool, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • Unexplained weight loss

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of gallstones?

Common symptoms of gallstones include sudden and intense pain in the upper right abdomen, pain that radiates to the right shoulder or back, nausea, and vomiting. Some people may also experience bloating, indigestion, and gas.


How can gastritis be managed at home?

Gastritis can often be managed at home by avoiding foods and drinks that irritate the stomach, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and taking over-the-counter antacids can also help reduce symptoms.


What are the warning signs of a peptic ulcer that require immediate medical attention?

Warning signs of a peptic ulcer that require immediate medical attention include severe or persistent abdominal pain, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, black or tarry stools, and unexplained weight loss.


Can changes in diet help alleviate abdominal pain related to these conditions?

Yes, dietary changes can help alleviate abdominal pain related to these conditions. Eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods, and staying hydrated can help manage symptoms. It's also important to avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can irritate the stomach lining.


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