stomach liver pain - #20924
I am really worried about this stomach liver pain that’s been bothering me for a bit now. A couple of weeks ago, I started feeling this dull ache on my right side, just below my rib cage, and I thought it was just something I ate, like bad takeout or whatever. But then it started radiating to my stomach too, like this weird stomach liver pain combo. I thought maybe I was overreacting, but I can’t shake this feeling. I went to the doc, and they did some blood tests and said my liver enzymes were slightly elevated but didn’t give me a clear answer. They said it could be fatty liver or something, but I don’t drink alcohol, like ever! I mean, I try to eat healthy and exercise, but I guess last winter I kinda let things slide. Now I’m scared of the whole stomach liver pain situation getting worse. I’m not sure if I should be doing anything different or if any particular diets could help with stomach liver pain. Has anyone had experience with this? What did your doctors say or what did you do to improve it? Just feels a bit overwhelming right now with all these questions swimming in my mind.
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Doctors' responses
A dull ache on the right side below the rib cage, sometimes radiating to the stomach, can indeed be concerning, especially with slightly elevated liver enzymes that your doctor noted. A common cause could be non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can occur even if you don’t drink alcohol. This condition is often linked to factors like diet, weight, metabolic issues, and inactivity. It’s great to hear you’ve been focusing on healthy eating and exercise—keeping up with such habits benefits liver health. Focus on a consistent, balanced diet; aim for one rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting processed foods and sugars can also help. Exercise is key, so look to engage in regular physical activity, even starting with moderate activity like walking or cycling for at least 150 minutes a week. This can also help with weight management, another factor in resolving fatty liver situations. Monitor portion sizes too, and maybe consider consulting a dietitian familiar with liver conditions to fine-tune your dietary plan. It’s wise to follow up with your doctor about any changes in symptoms or liver function over time, and keep an eye out for any severe pain, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), or fatigue. If anything like that arises or your general state worsens, it would warrant more immediate attention. While lifestyle modification can significantly improve your condition, be mindful of potential complications, and continue communicating openly with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if further imaging studies or specialist referrals are needed.
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