[20F] Experiencing multisystem symptoms including sharp abdominal pain

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female presents with a sudden onset of sharp, constant pain in the left lower abdomen rated 7/10 for severity, starting today. She has been experiencing a throbbing headache around the frontal lobe for a year, rated 5/10, which worsens with vaping. Additionally, she reports aching right-sided neck pain for a few months, rated 6/10. She also describes tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, and severe dizziness when winded, particularly when ascending stairs, with these symptoms persisting for a year. The dizziness is rated 10/10 for severity and is accompanied by disorientation. She mentions feeling hot but denies fever, nausea, vomiting, palpitations, wheezing, and changes in her menstrual cycle due to an IUD. She has a family history of lung cancer but no personal history of chronic illnesses, allergies, or current medication use.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be considered:

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is particularly common and is also known as stomach flu. Symptoms can include abdominal cramps, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary if the cause is bacterial.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both.

    • Treatment typically involves long-term management of diet, lifestyle changes, and stress.
  • Diverticulitis: This is a condition where small, bulging pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract become inflamed or infected. Symptoms include abdominal pain (usually on the left side), fever, and sometimes changes in bowel movements.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, pain relievers, and a liquid diet until inflammation eases. In severe cases, hospitalization or surgery may be required.
  • Migraines: These are a type of headache characterized by throbbing pain, usually confined to one side of the head, that tends to get worse with movement and can last hours to days.

    • Treatment typically involves pain relieving and preventive medications.
  • Tension headaches: These are the most common type of headache, characterized by a dull, aching sensation all around the head.

    • Treatment typically involves pain relievers and lifestyle changes to manage stress.
  • Cervical spondylosis: This is a general term for age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks in your neck. This can cause neck pain and stiffness.

    • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Asthma: This is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

    • Treatment typically involves long-term control and prevention of asthma attacks.
  • Anxiety: This is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one's daily activities. Symptoms include stress that's out of proportion to the impact of the event, inability to set aside a worry, and restlessness.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medications, and coping strategies.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in a comprehensive manner.

What you can do

  1. For your abdominal discomfort, try to rest and stay hydrated. Avoid any foods or drinks that seem to trigger these symptoms.
  2. For your headaches, try over-the-counter pain relievers. Rest and avoid any triggers, such as bright lights or loud noises.
  3. For your neck pain, try gentle neck stretches and over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid straining your neck and maintain good posture.
  4. For your shortness of breath and chest tightness, try to avoid triggers such as vaping and strenuous activity. Practice deep breathing exercises.
  5. For your dizziness, sit or lie down immediately when you feel dizzy and avoid sudden changes in position.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain or discomfort that doesn't improve within 24 hours
  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that's getting worse
  • Severe, sudden headache or sudden headache accompanied by a stiff neck
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What could be causing my sudden sharp pain in the left lower abdomen?

Sudden sharp pain in the left lower abdomen could be caused by conditions such as gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or diverticulitis. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.


Why do I experience headaches that worsen with vaping?

Headaches that worsen with vaping could be related to migraines or tension headaches. Vaping may trigger or exacerbate these headaches due to nicotine or other chemicals. Avoiding vaping and identifying other triggers can help manage the headaches.


What might be the reason for my neck pain and how can I alleviate it?

Neck pain could be due to cervical spondylosis, which involves age-related changes in the neck's spinal disks. Gentle neck stretches, maintaining good posture, and using over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the pain.


Why do I feel dizzy and disoriented when climbing stairs?

Dizziness and disorientation when climbing stairs could be related to conditions like asthma or anxiety, which affect breathing and stress levels. Avoiding triggers, practicing deep breathing exercises, and consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation are recommended.


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