Heat packs while pregnant

[fleacircus]

I've been suffering from a pain in my upper back, slightly on the RH side, and corresponding pain under my right breast. It started soon after I got pregnant and has got progressively worse and worse, now it is a daily occurence and has become really agonising. DP brought home two different kind of heat packs today to try to relieve it, Cura-Heat and ThermaCare. Both say to check with a pharmacist or doctor if pregnant. I've tried ringing NHS Direct but they are inundated and have a recorded message saying only to stay on the line if it's an emergency. So, what do you lot think? Anyone used this kind of thing while pregnant? The pain is just below where my bra strap rests and just under my right breast, not right on or behind my abdomen.

I suffer from really bad upper back pain, which my mw told me is due to posture (ie the bump pulling me out of alignment). She gave me some good back exercises, but this doesn't sound like your pain (partic. if you've had this from early on in pregnancy). I have used a hot water bottle on my lower and upper back to alleviate pain, but did read you have to be careful about this. I figured it's better than painkillers (for the baby) but you need to check about the packs as they tend to be more intensive. Not sure what the heat problem is, but it could be to do with overheating (that's the reason you can't use a sauna while preggaz). Good luck and keep on with NHS Direct if you're mw, GP or hospital can't help you over the weekend - if you're in pain, it IS an emergency!

Hi Flea

Its probably not but the pain you're describing is in exactly the place I got it when I had gallstones.

I'd just pop in to see your GP and get that ruled out if I were you.

Phee

I agree with Pheebe, it does sound very much like gall bladder proble (Cholecystitis).

it's exacerbated by fatty food.

Try to restrict fat in your diet,no hot buttered toast, dairy cream etc. and note if there is any improvement.

The pain in the right back/shoulder region is referred pain.

Lots of information on the internet, but I would recommend an early GP appointment.

To answer the heat pad question, I checked with the pharmacist before buying and he said it was fine. I have used them a couple of times when my back got really bad and it was fabulous!!! Hadn't felt so good in ages. I would agre with the others tough, check your problem with the dr -I hope it isn't gallstones, good luck!

Hmm, hadn't thought of gallstones, will get a GP appt. Thanks all for responses. MuppetGirl, that's reassuring, I'm glad they worked for you! And Sufi, you're right, I just have ridiculous belief that I shouldn't bother the busy doctors with my silly problems. I blame my mother and her extraordinary commitment to guilt!