[67F] Experiencing sharp, intermittent upper right abdominal pain

What might be happening

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

• Gallbladder Disease: The gallbladder is located in the upper right part of the abdomen. Conditions such as gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) can cause sharp, intermittent pain in this area. The pain can be worse with deep breaths and movement.

  • Treatment usually involves medication to dissolve gallstones or surgery to remove the gallbladder.

• Pleurisy: This is inflammation of the lining of the lungs and chest (the pleura) that leads to chest pain when you take a breath or cough. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including viral or bacterial infections, and autoimmune diseases like your Mixed Connective Tissue Disease.

  • Treatment usually involves addressing the underlying cause and may include anti-inflammatory drugs or, in severe cases, procedures to remove fluid or air from around the lungs.

• Costochondritis: This is inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage where the upper ribs attach to the breastbone (sternum), an area known as the costosternal joint. Costochondritis causes chest pain that can be reproduced by pushing on the area of the chest cartilage.

  • Treatment usually involves pain relievers and physical therapy.

What you can do

You should consult a healthcare professional about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to alleviate your symptoms:

1. Rest and avoid physical activity to see if it helps reduce your pain.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
3. Applying a warm compress to the painful area may also help relieve your pain.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• You develop a fever
• You have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• You notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, as this could be a sign of a problem with your liver or gallbladder
• You have chest pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back, or if it's accompanied by nausea, sweating, or shortness of breath, as these could be signs of a heart attack.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.