[18F] Experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, and missed period

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female presents with abdominal pain rated 7/10, located below the belly button, described as a cramp with a sharp nausea feeling. The pain is most severe in the early morning and has been occurring since last Friday. It is somewhat alleviated by loosening clothes. The patient also reports vomiting since yesterday, initially food and then stomach acid this morning. She experiences sweating when cold, with hot flashes and chills, which started last night. Her last bowel movement was this morning, with stool described as small and hard. She denies any recent injuries. Additionally, she has missed her period, which is usually regular since her last pregnancy 7 months ago. No specific food triggers have been identified for the vomiting episodes. The patient's symptoms are not time-specific but are more noticeable with heat or physical activity.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually resulting from a bacterial or viral infection, which can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever. It typically resolves on its own within a few days.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.
  • Pregnancy: Given your missed period and previous pregnancy, it's possible that you could be pregnant again. Early pregnancy can cause symptoms like nausea (morning sickness), vomiting, and changes in bowel movements.

    • Confirming pregnancy usually involves a home pregnancy test or blood test at a doctor's office.
  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small organ located on the right side of the abdomen. It can cause severe abdominal pain, usually starting around the belly button and moving to the lower right side, as well as nausea, vomiting, and fever.

    • Appendicitis is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

What you can do

  1. If you suspect you might be pregnant, consider taking a home pregnancy test.
  2. Stay hydrated and eat small, bland meals to help manage your nausea and vomiting.
  3. Rest and avoid strenuous activity, which could exacerbate your abdominal pain.
  4. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage your abdominal pain, but avoid aspirin, which can irritate the stomach.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your abdominal pain becomes severe or unbearable
  • You have difficulty breathing
  • Your vomiting becomes severe or you can't keep down liquids
  • You notice blood in your vomit or stool

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of gastroenteritis and how can it be treated at home?

Common symptoms of gastroenteritis include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Treatment typically involves staying hydrated, resting, and using over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. It's important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.


How can I confirm if I am pregnant and what are the early signs of pregnancy?

Pregnancy can be confirmed with a home pregnancy test or a blood test at a doctor's office. Early signs of pregnancy include missed periods, nausea (often referred to as morning sickness), vomiting, fatigue, and breast tenderness.


What are the warning signs of appendicitis that require immediate medical attention?

Warning signs of appendicitis include severe abdominal pain that starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right side, nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention as appendicitis is a medical emergency.


What dietary changes can help alleviate nausea and vomiting?

To alleviate nausea and vomiting, try eating small, bland meals such as crackers, toast, or rice. Avoid spicy, greasy, or heavy foods. Staying hydrated with clear fluids like water or broth can also help. Ginger tea or ginger ale may also be soothing for nausea.


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