[36F] Experiencing intermittent right-sided abdominal pain with associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 36-year-old female presents with intermittent sharp pain on the right side of the abdomen, which has been worsening over the past three months. The pain varies in location, sometimes felt in the lower abdomen near the ovary and at other times under the rib cage. She reports occasional nausea and a low-grade fever. The patient has observed changes in bowel movements, with stools being yellow or black. She also experiences itchy skin with a rash on her legs, fatigue, and has noted her urine to be an orange-yellow color. Her medical history includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high pulse, diagnosed three years ago. She has had her gallbladder, uterus, and tonsils removed. Currently, she is not on any medications and has no known drug allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, several conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Gallstones or Biliary Disease: Even though you've had your gallbladder removed, it's possible to still have issues with the biliary system. This could explain the pain under your rib cage and changes in stool color. However, this usually doesn't cause a rash.

    • Treatment typically involves managing the symptoms and, in some cases, surgery.
  • Liver Disease: Given your history of fatty liver disease and the presence of itchy skin, fatigue, and changes in stool and urine color, this could be a possibility. Liver disease can sometimes cause right-sided abdominal pain.

    • Treatment depends on the specific type of liver disease but often involves lifestyle changes, medication, and in severe cases, a liver transplant.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Your history of IBS could explain the abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements. However, it doesn't typically cause itchy skin or changes in stool color.

    • Treatment often involves dietary changes, stress management, and medication.
  • Dermatological Conditions: The itchy skin and rash on your legs could be due to a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis. These wouldn't explain your other symptoms, though.

    • Treatment typically involves topical creams or ointments, and avoiding triggers if they can be identified.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be causing your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the complexity and severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

  1. Keep a symptom diary: Note down when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they occur, and anything that seems to make them better or worse. This can help your healthcare provider figure out what's going on.
  2. Stay hydrated: This is especially important if you're experiencing diarrhea.
  3. Eat a balanced diet: Try to eat a variety of foods to ensure you're getting all the nutrients your body needs. This is particularly important given your history of fatty liver disease and IBS.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your stool
  • A high fever (over 100.4°F)
  • Yellowing of your skin or eyes
  • Sudden worsening of your symptoms

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


Can you still have biliary issues after gallbladder removal?

Yes, even after gallbladder removal, you can still experience biliary issues such as bile duct stones or dysfunction, which can cause abdominal pain and changes in stool color.


What are the common symptoms of liver disease?

Common symptoms of liver disease include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, pale stool, itchy skin, and abdominal pain, particularly on the right side.


How can Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affect bowel movements?

IBS can cause a variety of bowel movement changes, including diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two. It can also lead to abdominal pain and bloating.


What might cause itchy skin and a rash on the legs?

Itchy skin and a rash on the legs can be caused by dermatological conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, or allergic reactions. It can also be related to systemic conditions like liver disease.


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