Question:
What is this pain I am having on my left side?

I am 8 weeks post op open RNY and I have developed a pain. It seems to get worse in the evening and especially after I eat. It is located to the left of my incision sort of midway between my bottom rib and belly button - but I have a hard time pinpointing it with my hand since nothing hurts if I press. If I lay down on my side it totally goes away. Sitting is okay too. When I stand up is when I feel it. Not severe - but definitely uncomfortable. Feels like a hot, sort of burning pain. It stays right in the one area and does not spread. Since surgery I have not once thrown up or even been naucious. I have been able to tolerate everything I have tried - which is a variety of foods at this point. Any ideas?    — Kim B (posted on February 8, 2003)

February 8, 2003
Original Poster here - skip the part about getting worse after eating. It has been a few hours since my last meal and it still hurts whenever I stand up. It hasn't gone away and won't until I sit or lie on my right side (haven't tried left). Any help would be appreciated! Thank you.
   — Kim B

February 8, 2003
call your doctor!! pain is not something we should ever live with!! good luck!
   — nan K.

February 9, 2003
You should check with your surgeon, it could be an adheasion, or any number of things. Hope you feel better soon :0)
   — wizz46

February 9, 2003
I've had a similar pain and it was gas and constipation. If this is not the case, call your doctor!
   — susanje

February 9, 2003
hi there :) i remember having pain in my left side as well, especially when the jp drain was removed as it was on my left side. it was sore at times and i just figured it was becuase thats where alot of the work was done. hope it feels better for ya, but if not, just check with your doc to be safe. :)
   — carrie M.

February 10, 2003
I had the same problem, it started at about a month post op and lasted till about four months post op. It seemed to get worse the more active I was. Turns out it was exactly where my drain and had been and it was slow in healing. My surgeon said it was where the drain tube was slipped through my muscles and it just took time to heal. It sort of felt like a stitch in my side sometimes.. and others it was just barely noticable. Like previous posters said though I would check with your Dr. just to be safe. Good luck. Hugs and smiles..
   — MnShadows