Liver Biopsy

[Sunshinegirlie]

Hi, my bf had a liver biopsy and he had some pain at the back and not the area and he has been feeling like this for days and I am so worried about that. He took the painkillers and he felt better but then again, there is the pain. His next appointment is in May. In the meantime, what could I do to help him feel better?

[Fibro2021]

Hi, It's understandable you're worried — post-biopsy pain can be unsettling, especially if it’s not exactly where the procedure was done.

If the pain is increasing or not improving over several days, it would be reasonable to consult a doctor earlier than May, just to be safe. One useful step might be a repeat ultrasound to check for a possible hematoma, which can occasionally form after a liver biopsy and cause referred or pressure-like pain in the back or shoulder area.

If there's no internal complication and the pain is neurogenic or musculoskeletal (which can happen after lying still during the procedure or due to nerve irritation), then topical pain relief such as lidocaine patches or prescribed oral painkillers can help.

I’d avoid applying heat (like a heating pad) unless a doctor says it's safe, especially in the first week or so post-biopsy, as warmth could worsen bleeding if a hematoma is present.

Monitoring symptoms — like increasing pain, fever, or changes in vital signs — is important. But hopefully, it’s nothing serious and just part of the normal healing process. Wishing him a smooth recovery!

[tomgill]

good morning Sunshinegirlie , over the years I’ve had quite a few liver biopsies due to hemocromatosis , I find the after effects are worse than the procedure but the pain will subside after a few days and he’ll be back to normal

[Readlots]

Hi, what a lovely bf you are. To help him feel better I’d suggest letting him rest, and relax. Pain is always worse when you’re stressed and trying todo too much. Maybe having a few quiet nights in with him snuggled up with a film or his favourite binge watch. Or offering to cook his favourite tea so that he doesn’t have to.