Can you experience pain in the upper right abdomen that radiates to the back with PBC?
Yes, this is a common experience with PBC. Liver pain typically occurs in the upper right part of the abdomen where the liver is located, and it frequently spreads to the back or shoulder blades.
The pain can feel different for Show Full Answer
Can you experience pain in the upper right abdomen that radiates to the back with PBC?
Yes, this is a common experience with PBC. Liver pain typically occurs in the upper right part of the abdomen where the liver is located, and it frequently spreads to the back or shoulder blades.
The pain can feel different for different people:
* Sharp and stabbing
* Dull and achy
* Throbbing or piercing
A myPBCteam member described their experience: "Sharp, intense under my ribs, right flank, and radiates to my back at times. Sometimes it shoots across my upper abdomen from right to left."
This radiating pain happens because pain can be "referred" elsewhere, meaning it occurs in a different body part than where it started. The discomfort you feel is likely due to liver inflammation, damage to nearby tissues, or complications like ascites or an enlarged spleen.
If you're experiencing this type of pain, it's important to talk with your doctor. They can help determine if it's related to PBC progression or another issue, and work with you on the best management approach.
April 17