All the symptoms of Gallstones but no gallstones found

[2LoveBugs]

As the above said... I've been suffering for over 5 years now with this pain. I've had numerous test done. Endoscopy, colonoscopy, MRI, Barium swallow test and abdominal scan.

All fingers point to gallstones but nothing has been found. I've then been told it's IBS or reflux. It's definitely not reflux as I've had that during pregnancy and the omeprazole does not help for this pain. They've also said IBS but I highly doubt it. Again, I've tried buscopan and peppermint oil capsules.

Recently I've been have more frequent flare ups and I'm not having these every other day.

Symptoms are: pain below my right ribcage which radiates into my back and occasionally some shoulder pain. I am also nauseous with it with a few occasions where I've physically been sick.

Has anyone experienced this or going through this at the moment? I feel like I've run out of options and been told it's everything under the sun but nothing helps.

Thanks in advance if you've made it this far.

Google sphincter of Oddi dysfunction

Here are some potential options from ChatGPT

I'm sorry to hear about the pain you've been experiencing. I am not a doctor, but there are many potential causes for abdominal pain, and it can sometimes be difficult to determine the exact source. If gallstones and other common gastrointestinal conditions have been ruled out, here are a few other possibilities to consider:

1. *Biliary Dyskinesia*: This is a condition where the gallbladder doesn't empty bile properly. It can mimic symptoms of gallstones, but gallstones are not present. A HIDA scan can be used to evaluate the function of the gallbladder and diagnose this condition.

1. *Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction (SOD)*: The sphincter of Oddi is a muscular valve that controls the flow of digestive juices (bile and pancreatic juice) from the liver and pancreas into the small intestine. Dysfunction can cause abdominal pain similar to gallstone pain.

1. *Costochondritis*: An inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone. It can cause chest pain that can mimic gallbladder or heart problems. The pain tends to worsen with movement or deep breathing.

1. *Musculoskeletal Issues*: Sometimes pain in the ribcage area can be caused by problems with the muscles or bones, such as muscle strains or rib fractures.

1. *Kidney Stones or Infections*: These can sometimes cause pain that feels like it's under the ribcage.

1. *Liver Conditions*: Diseases or conditions that affect the liver, such as hepatitis or liver cysts, might produce pain in the right upper quadrant.

1. *Chronic Pancreatitis*: Inflammation of the pancreas which can sometimes cause pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back.

1. *Functional Dyspepsia*: Sometimes referred to as non-ulcer stomach pain or non-ulcer dyspepsia, functional dyspepsia can cause upper abdominal pain without an obvious cause.

Given the complexity of diagnosing abdominal pain and the potential seriousness of some conditions, it's important to work closely with your healthcare provider or seek a second opinion, preferably from a gastroenterologist or another specialist relevant to your symptoms. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you to the appropriate tests and treatments.

I've twice had pain so bad I had to go to hospital. I thought it was gall stones as pain exactly as you describe and radiated to shoulder blade. Various tests done but they couldn't find gall stone. Turned out my gall bladder was full of 'sludge' so not draining properly. The consultant rubbed this thing over it many times pushing down. It was painful to have it done but I have not had problems since.

Angina? It can present in unusual ways in women, including abdominal pain.

I hope you get to the bottom of it. I had tests for gallstones earlier this year but none were found and no further explanation offered. Luckily, after 9 months of off/on problems it just stopped.