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Abdomen involuntarily squeezed tightly
Digestive Health | Last Active: Apr 19 7:58pm | Replies (20)Comment receiving replies
For the past two years I am not comfortable when sitting or lying down.
Fell like I’m being squeezed from inside .
Have had numerous tests, however, no one has been able to find out what is wrong.
I walk 3 miles a day, golf and play pickle ball.
Hate nighttime when I have to sit.
Never is any better whether I eat or not eat.
Drink or not drink. It is always the same.
Replies to "For the past two years I am not comfortable when sitting or lying down. Fell like..."
@smac1216
Have you been tested for MALS Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome? It's where your diaphragm comes down over your celiac artery and compresses the artery making it narrow. The blood flow to your stomach and other organs then becomes less and creates pain. The pain feels like it's squeezing the abdomen.
There are several GI conditions that can mimic the pain for MALS, so all GI issues need to be ruled out.
The tests used to diagnose MALS, are a Mesenteric Doppler Ultrasound, CTA Angiogram with and without Contrast, and a Celiac Plexus Block. There are specific protocols needed to do these tests, so it's imperative to find a good interventional radiologist who is experienced in MALS.
After confirming results, it's then important to find a very experienced
MALS Vascular Surgeon who knows how to do the surgeries. Do your research. There are many other compressions that can cause this pain along with having MALS. Sometimes, Other causes of compressions can be repeated compressing of the celiac artery and c stents m au need to ge placed or the nerves in the abdomen maybe compressing the arteries from the outside and need to be removed.
The MALS Foundation Facebook page is a great resource page with a list of doctors who patients have recommended, along with information explaining MALS.
Years ago, there was very little availability about MALS even though it's been know about since 1963. It's a rare condition so most GIs and PCP think you can't have it. It seems more and more people have it though.
Other Facebook pages that are a great resource and support are MALS PALS, MALS Awareness, Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome and many others.
There aren't many doctors even aware of what MALS is. Be careful and don't let doctors gaslight you because of their ignorance of it being so rare.
If you are diagnosed, it can be a tough road for surgery and recovery.
I hope this helps. Stay Positive and keep advocating for yourself.
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@smac1216
I have a similar sensation around my ribs/belly and one thing I read was MS can cause this, it's called the MS hug, just a thought, good luck.