fatty liver back pain - #19514
I am dealing with this weird situation, and I'm not sure what to make of it. For the past few months, I've had this dull ache in my back, right between my shoulder blades, and I’m kind of freaking out about it. I've been on a journey trying to lose weight and eat healthier since I found out I have fatty liver. My doctor mentioned that fatty liver could lead to all sorts of issues, and now I'm wondering if the back pain could be related to it, you know? I've cut down on fried foods and started exercising more, but the pain just won't go away. Sometimes, it feels more intense after I eat, which makes me think maybe it’s all connected. Like, could fatty liver cause back pain? I'm also not sure if I should just wait it out or if I need to go back in for more tests. I hate to be that person who overreacts, but it’s been such a distraction, like I find myself constantly shifting positions to get comfortable. And with everything I read online about fatty liver back pain, it just adds to my worries! Have others experienced same thing? Should I be looking into different dietary changes, or what else could help with the pain? Any advice would be super helpful!
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Doctors' responses
The relationship between fatty liver disease and back pain is not typically direct. Fatty liver disease mainly affects liver function, and while it’s associated with conditions like fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or a feeling of fullness, it’s less likely to cause pain in the area you’re describing. The discomfort between the shoulder blades that you experience might not be directly linked to the liver. However, it’s important to consider that factors like an enlarged liver, inflammation, or other gastrointestinal issues could cause pressure or discomfort that might be perceived as back pain. Since you mentioned that the pain intensifies after eating, it may be worthwhile to assess whether this could be related to gastrointestinal issues like gallbladder problems or acid reflux, which can manifest as back pain due to nerve pathways. It’s good that you’ve started lifestyle changes, as weight loss and healthier eating positively impact fatty liver. Continue monitoring your diet, focusing on low saturated fat intake, ample fruits and vegetables, and avoiding excessive sugar or alcohol consumption. Keep up with regular physical activity, tailored to your comfort levels and capabilities. For your current discomfort, consider exploring ergonomic adjustments if a posture-related cause is plausible, and check in with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They might recommend imaging tests or additional assessments to rule out gallbladder or other concerns. If the pain worsens, becomes severe, or you experience any other alarming symptoms like jaundice or severe digestive changes, prioritize immediate medical attention. While worrying about overreacting is common, persistent or unexplained pain is best evaluated directly by a healthcare professional.
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