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I Have A Dull Ache Pain (between #2 And #4)

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Posted on Tue, 28 May 2019
Question: I have a dull ache pain (between #2 and #4) in between my sternum and navel, mid-body, and closer to the front of my body that wakes me every night. After becoming vertical or semi-vertical for 1 to 3 hours,it abates enough to go back to sleep. Anything to do with food does not affect it at all (type, time eaten, amount, etc.).

This has been going on since 2007. I have had almost any test one can name, and many Gastroenterologists (including the entire GI staff at UCI) have all ruled out any stomach or digestive tract GI-related problem. They feel it is more likely a mechanical, possibly muscle related situation. But no one can offer any solution.

During the day it is so slight that it doesn't affect my daily life, although I spend much time trying to make up for lost sleep.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (39 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
possible hernia or diastasis recti

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
It sounds like possible abdominal wall issue and at this area most common are ventral hernia,rectus muscle diastasis or neuralgia of parietal abdominal nerves. This can be ruled out my abdominal wall MRI scan. If nothing is found than exploratory laparoscopy may be required to explore abdominal cavity and abdominal wall. I believe that body mass reduction and exercise may help but if hernia or rectus diastasis is present then surgicla repair may be required Wish you good health. Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (26 minutes later)
Regarding your statement "This can be ruled out my abdominal wall MRI scan."

I had asked my primary physician about that - he said that an MRI wouldn't work on my gut area because of breathing movement.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (10 hours later)
Brief Answer:
See next

Detailed Answer:
Hi. Well, that's not really true because MRI is standard imaging test for abdominal issues. Also, it is more important to see abdominal wall muscles and fascia rather than gut in case. Breathing may interact with MRI but it can be corrected during the test and patient may be asked to stop breathing for 15 - 20 seconds
Note: Revert back with your health reports to get further guidance on your gastric problems. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich

General Surgeon

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 13886 Questions

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I Have A Dull Ache Pain (between #2 And #4)

Brief Answer: possible hernia or diastasis recti Detailed Answer: Hi and welcome. It sounds like possible abdominal wall issue and at this area most common are ventral hernia,rectus muscle diastasis or neuralgia of parietal abdominal nerves. This can be ruled out my abdominal wall MRI scan. If nothing is found than exploratory laparoscopy may be required to explore abdominal cavity and abdominal wall. I believe that body mass reduction and exercise may help but if hernia or rectus diastasis is present then surgicla repair may be required Wish you good health. Regards