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Digestive Health
Question #15601
46 days ago
66

why pain in liver - #15601

Yash

I am really worried about this pain on my right side, it's been going on for about a week now. I’ve noticed that the discomfort just under my ribcage is like a dull ache but sometimes it sharpens up a bit. I thought it was just something I ate, but the other day I had some blood work done and the doctor mentioned possible liver issues. Why pain in liver seems to be getting worse? I've also felt kinda tired, like all the time, and I’m not sure if that connects, but I've heard some crazy stuff about liver problems from friends. They say it could be fatty liver or even something more serious, and like, why pain in liver would mean anything big? Just this past Saturday, I had some really greasy food and felt this weird heaviness afterward. Like is there a way to tell if my liver is in trouble? My mind's racing thinking about all this. Is there something I could do to help figure out why pain in liver is happening? I keep wondering if there are dietary changes I should consider or if I should rush back to the doctor for a follow-up. Just really want to get to the bottom of this and not let it linger. Want to know I'm doing everything I can to take care of myself, you know?

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Doctors’ responses

Right-sided pain under the ribcage, where the liver is located, can stem from several different causes, and it’s crucial to get clarity on what’s happening. If your doctor already mentioned liver issues based on blood work, they might be referring to elevated liver enzymes or other markers that suggest liver inflammation or damage. Common conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, or alcoholic liver disease could be to blame, especially if there are risk factors like obesity, diabetes, excessive alcohol intake, or a history of viral infections. Since the liver is involved in so many bodily functions, symptoms like fatigue, along with pain, can indeed fit with liver problems, making these feelings potentially related.

Greasy foods may have exacerbated your symptoms, especially if your liver’s having trouble processing fats, which is seen with fatty liver conditions. Besides, gallbladder issues like gallstones or cholecystitis can also cause pain in that area, often brought on by fatty meals.

Self-care steps can include avoiding alcohol, reducing intake of fatty or greasy foods, and keeping hydrated. However, it’s advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for more definitive diagnosis, as persistent or worsening pain is a clear indication to seek medical attention. They might suggest imaging tests like an ultrasound or additional blood tests to assess liver function more comprehensively.

Dietary changes can be part of liver health strategies—aiming for a balanced diet low in processed foods and rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help. Yet, it’s essential to address underlying causes with professional guidance, as untreated liver problems can lead to more severe complications. Tackling lifestyle factors is equally important, such as maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active. Since conditions affecting the liver can be complex and might not always show immediate symptoms, close monitoring and a tailored approach to management with your doctor are best to ensure you’re taking the right steps for your health.

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