liver problem pain area - #18089
I am the past week or so, I've been having these weird pains in my upper right abdomen, like pretty intense localized discomfort, and I can't help but worry it could be something serious like a liver problem. I mean, my diet hasn't been the best lately, lots of takeout and maybe too much alcohol on the weekends. I keep hearing about how liver problems can manifest in pain in the liver problem pain area, so I guess naturally, my mind is going through all the worst-case scenarios. I tried to ignore it, but it hasn't gone away, and at this point, it feels a bit like a dull throbbing, especially after eating. I also noticed some mild nausea, but nothing too horrific. A friend suggested I should get my liver checked for any liver problems, but I'm not sure what to do next. What exactly should I be looking for in terms of symptoms of a liver problem? And how do doctors usually pinpoint where this liver problem pain area is if it is that? Feeling lost and kind of freaked out, honestly. Anyone been through this? What tests were helpful for you?
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Pain in the upper right abdomen can indeed be a sign of liver issues, but it’s key to remember it might also be related to other organs in that area like the gallbladder or the stomach. Since you mentioned some lifestyle factors like diet and alcohol, it’s wise to consider their impact on your liver. Common symptoms of liver problems can include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, and abdominal swelling or discomfort, other than the pain you’ve described. To determine if the liver is the culprit, physicians often start with a physical examination to look for signs of liver dysfunction. They may also order blood tests like liver function tests (LFTs) to evaluate how well your liver is working. Imaging studies such as an ultrasound can help visualize the liver and adjacent areas more clearly, which might help pinpoint the cause of your discomfort. It’s quite normal for doctors to take a detailed history of your alcohol use and any recent changes in your diet. If there’s suspicion of liver damage or disease, additional tests like a CT scan or MRI might be used. In some cases, a liver biopsy could be recommended for a definitive diagnosis, but this is typically after other less invasive tests. It’s crucial not to ignore these symptoms, especially since they’ve persisted for over a week and involve risk factors like alcohol use. Scheduling a checkup with your doctor or seeing a gastroenterologist would be a step in the right direction to get clarity and peace of mind. They can determine the exact cause of your pain and help you make appropriate lifestyle changes or treatments based on your specific situation.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.