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Left side abdominal pain

bethmach
bethmach
After 3 years of daily drinking (8-15 beers per day) I have been sober now for 16 days. I have also, however, been experiencing some left side upper abdominal pain (under the ribs). Very concerned. Any idea as to what this could be?
citychick2011
citychick2011
I just googled "upper left abdominal pain" and many conditions turned up. i would get in to see a doc. as soon as you can. You don't want to have to wait to go to the ER when you are in excruciating pain.

I know tomorrow, I am going to see my doc. to get my blood drawn for a general check up. Also need to check my thyroid.

Good luck and keep me posted!
Taradactyl
Taradactyl
When I was drinking alot, I had the same sort of pain and all I could come up with was pancreas. It still bothers me once in awhile when I eat certain foods but it's not as bad as it used to be.

I would definitely ask a dr.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Not a doctor,so couldn't guess. But certainly check with your physician, being upfront about the drinking too. I used to have bad throbbing pains on my right side and under my chest as well - kidney, liver areas. I can only imagine the damage I was doing my internal organs after 25 years of drinking, especially the last few years there, for them to actually *hurt*.

Good news is that all of that went away soon after I stopped drinking.

Check it out.
PinkArzora
PinkArzora
My vote would be pancreas. Your pancreas reacts to blood sugar spikes in alcohol by releasing insulin, and you've trained it to expect that routine. When I quit drinking (I'm one week sober... kinda sad but also a point of pride for me) I feel that as well four or five days in. I think the alcohol numbs sensations that we aren't in tune to until we've quit. Your body is adjusting to your new lifestyle and healing.
I would recommend you avoid processed carbs, white flour, sugar, juice, etc. All that stuff stresses the pancreas. Go for the greens, lean protein, veggie juice, some yogurts... avoid those spikes while your body is in recovery.
gr8ful2b
gr8ful2b
I'm an RN and the best support I can give you is to go see a doctor.

Speculation of what it could be and what the solution might be is risky business.
sidecar
sidecar
It could be an ulcer, pancreas or liver issues. I agree with the others, I would see a physician as soon as possible. They can do blood screens, enzyme levels, etc., and very probably pinpoint what the issue is. Best wishes to you on the diagnosis.
CoogeeMum
CoogeeMum
Agree with gr8ful2b. Also ask the Doc about a colonoscopy. They can be life saving, alcoholic or not. To help the doc, keep a note of when the pain occurs and what's happened preceding it (eating, drinking, exercise etc). Let us know how it goes.