Friday, July 5, 2013

Abdominal Pain and a Trip to Mexico

I AGREE TO USE MD STAT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, THAT NO DOCTOR PATIENT RELATIONSHIP IS FORMED BY MY PARTICIPATION IN THIS EXCHANGE, AND I UNDERSTAND THAT MY QUESTION AND ANSWER(S) WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEBSITE AND WILL BE VIEWABLE BY VISITORS TO THE SITE.: Yes, I agree.

I have recently (a week) had a dull ache to the right of my solar plexus, just below the lower rib. I have recently been on holiday to Mexico.Otherwise I am fit and well.

 Gender: Male
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'8"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 231
 How old are you?: 47.5
 How long has this been going on?: A few days

 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Chest Pain

 What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 : I have as yet not taken any action

 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : Ampicillin
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) ::  I am prescribed Allopurinol for uric acid (gout).

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: Now
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Weekly

Possible causes?
______________________________________________________________

Well that's a tough one. Obviously your gall bladder could be a problem as this is the most common cause of pain in the right side of the abdomen under the rib. Without other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or diarrhea it's very hard to guess further than this. If your pain is persistent or recurrent you should see your physician as labs and imaging studies might be needed to assess the cause of this pain. Be well.

1 comment:

space doc said...

The pain could be from gall stones (in the gall bladder or in the ducts leading away from the gall bladder which can cause pancreatic inflammation also)

If your trip to Mexico included more than your usual intake of alcohol this could also cause cause inflammation of the pancreas

Gastitiis or ulcers can cause pain in this area.

Blood tests for liver/ gall bladder, infection, and pancreas (serum amylase and lipase) could be done.

An ultrasound of the abdomen could show gall stones and pancreatic cysts, stones.

If the discomfort continues or recurs it would be wise to see your doctor.

Best of Luck! Space Doc.