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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have a really sharp pain in my stomach. I've been to the hospital for this three times they've done all kinds of testing and they can't

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Reno, NV

Find out what the problem is. I had one really bad one after I had my little biopsy and I was in the ER for 5 hours and they couldn't find out what the problem was. Can you give me some advice

August 26
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone dealing with unexplained sharp stomach pain, offering both emotional support and practical suggestions. Several... Read more

Members rallied around someone dealing with unexplained sharp stomach pain, offering both emotional support and practical suggestions. Several members shared their own experiences with similar issues, including diverticulosis, lupus-related inflammation, sluggish digestion, and blockages, with helpful tips like eating smaller amounts, using a heating pad, and switching to liquids during flare-ups. A recurring theme was encouragement to keep advocating with doctors, try an elimination approach with supplements or foods, and never hesitate to return to the ER if pain gets worse.

A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member I’ve experienced that as well Judy. I already have Diverticulosis which is painful in itself, plus the Inflammation from Lupus exacerbates this condition even more. When this happens I don’t eat anything for a few hours and just have liquids instead. If your pain intensifies go back to the ER as many times as you need to. Let your rheumatologist also know what’s happening. Hope you feel better soon Judy. 🌈💜🌈

August 26
A MyLupusTeam Member

I was experiencing stomach pain and my dietician recommended, I stop all my supplements to see if maybe I was overdoing it. So I did. Turned out one had Iodine in it. I know I am allergic to Iodine, but everyone told me you can't be allergic to the ingestible kind. Turns out, I am. So, maybe evaluate what you are taking and eating. Try the elimination approach.

August 29
A MyLupusTeam Member

It may be lupus-related, irritable bowel, or diverticular pain, among other possibilities. Judy, have they done an abdominal CT, endoscopy, colonoscopy, and labs? I'm not sure of the exact location of the pain, but an ultrasound of the gallbladder may be helpful if it's in the right upper abdomen. I hope you get some relief.

August 27
MyLupusTeam

That sounds really exhausting and frustrating — going to the ER multiple times without answers is genuinely tough, especially when you're already managing lupus. You deserve some clarity!

Lupus can directly cause abdominal pain by affecting the intestines or the lining of the abdomen, which can sometimes be tricky to Show Full Answer

That sounds really exhausting and frustrating — going to the ER multiple times without answers is genuinely tough, especially when you're already managing lupus. You deserve some clarity!

Lupus can directly cause abdominal pain by affecting the intestines or the lining of the abdomen, which can sometimes be tricky to diagnose. It's worth knowing that sharp stomach pain in lupus can have several possible connections, including:

- Inflammation from lupus itself affecting the digestive tract
- Side effects from lupus medications
- Lupus-related conditions like vasculitis or peritonitis One really helpful step is to track your pain carefully before your next appointment. Try noting:

- When the pain starts and how long it lasts
- How severe it is on a scale of 1–10
- What makes it better or worse
- Any other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or fever
- Whether it happens after eating or certain activities

Bringing this detailed log to your rheumatologist — not just the ER — can make a big difference. A rheumatologist may connect the dots between your lupus and the pain better than an emergency setting can.

Never ignore severe abdominal pain, and if it becomes unbearable, keep going back. You know your body best!

August 26
A MyLupusTeam Member

That sounds like it's kind of hard to take medication that you're allergic to. Sorry that happened to you I hope you have a great weekend pain-free big hugs

August 29

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