[37F] Experiencing right upper quadrant pain with associated symptoms

What might be happening

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

• Gallbladder disease: Even though your ultrasound did not show any gallstones, you could still have a condition called biliary dyskinesia, where the gallbladder does not empty bile correctly due to a defect. This can cause symptoms similar to those produced by gallstones.

  • Treatment typically involves a cholecystectomy, which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a condition where 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 and cause upper abdominal pain.

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

• Peptic Ulcer: Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid. If an H. pylori infection is present, antibiotics will also be needed.

• Kidney stones: Even though your ultrasound did not show any stones, small stones might not have been detected. Kidney stones can cause severe pain and urinary symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relievers and drinking lots of water to help pass the stone. Medical procedures may be needed to remove or break up larger stones.

• Liver disease: Given your alcohol consumption, there is a possibility of liver disease, which can cause right upper quadrant pain.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as abstaining from alcohol and losing weight. Medications and surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.

Please note that these are potential diagnoses based on the symptoms you've reported. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They may need to perform additional tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers (like certain foods or activities).
3. Try to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated. Avoid foods that seem to trigger your symptoms.
4. Limit your alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol can contribute to liver disease and other health problems.
5. Continue taking your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting or vomiting blood
• Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.