Pain in upper abdomen and lower right side?

[Liz E]

I have been having this pain on and off for about a year now. I have had blood tests (no sign of infection) but they still haven't figured it out. I will admit I haven't gone to the doctors as much as I should because I don't have health insurance. The pain is right at the apex of my ribs, right underneath the breast bone, I have been taking Prilosec OTC thinking it may help but thus far hasn't. I also get pain in my lower right side, was checked for appendicitis and was not that. It seems to get worse about a week and a half before my period. The pain is a gnawing feeling in my chest, but sharp in my side... I don't know if they are unrelated or not. Today I almost blacked out because I bent over to pick up a laundry basket and my side hurt so bad. I am 26/F/Non-smoker/average build.

[Ilene W]

I'll bet anything it is your gall bladder. I had the same problem and it does come and go and it hurts like hell. There is only one solution. You have to have it removed. But, if you need to buy yourself some time, I found a homeopathic solution that really helped. It got me through for about a year. Peppermint oil pills. Buy them at a reputable health food store, make sure they are highly concentrated. It won't cure you, but it will help you. Upper right quadrant is the gall bladder-google human physiology. Look up gall bladder disease or gall stones. Good luck. Hope you feel better soon.

[Jenny RS]

Have you seen a gynecologist? That probably won't explain your epigastric pain but you may find some answers to your lower right quadrant pain. Perhaps you have an ovarian cyst? I know how difficult it can be to find health care when you are uninsured. I would call your local health department and explain your situation. Perhaps they could refer you to someone who would be willing to set you up on a payment plan if needed.

[pabs2d_rescue]

You may have pneumothorax which means there's air in your lung cavity and it's pressing against your lung. it is marked by stabbing pain depending where the air pocket developed. the pain gets worse when you do physical activities. Or you may have gallbladder stones. this is marked by pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. you may also have fatty liver.the best thing to do? go to a doctor. public hospitals don't charge. just go early so you won't endure the long lines. : )