[23F] Experiencing sharp pain in lower stomach and back

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female reports a sudden onset of sharp pain in the lower stomach, specifically under the right ribs, and severe back pain since giving birth via C-section in 2022. The abdominal pain is severe, rated 9 out of 10, and the back pain is also significant, rated 8 out of 10. The back pain is exacerbated by heavy lifting, pressure, and cold weather. The patient experienced nausea and diarrhea last Thursday but has not noticed any changes in urine or yellowing of the skin or eyes. No known allergies, chronic illnesses, or family history of gallstones or kidney stones were reported. The patient uses marijuana recreationally but is not on any other medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Gallstones: This condition occurs when hard, pebble-like deposits form in your gallbladder, a small organ under the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Gallstones can cause sharp, intense pain in the upper right part of your abdomen, which can radiate to your back or right shoulder blade. The pain usually comes on suddenly and quickly becomes very intense.

    • Treatment for gallstones may involve medication to dissolve the stones or surgery to remove the gallbladder.
  • Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Pain from kidney stones can be severe and usually starts suddenly when the stones move into the urinary tract, blocking the flow of urine.

    • Treatment for kidney stones usually involves pain relievers and drinking lots of water to help pass the stone. In some cases, surgery may be required.
  • Musculoskeletal Pain: This refers to pain in the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones. Your pain could be due to a muscle strain or sprain, especially since it started when you were bending down.

    • Treatment for musculoskeletal pain often includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help.

What you can do

  1. Seek immediate medical attention: Given the severity of your pain, it's important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can perform tests to determine the cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatment.

  2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent dehydration, especially if you've been experiencing diarrhea.

  3. Rest: Try to avoid heavy lifting and applying pressure to your abdomen, as these activities seem to make your pain worse.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • The pain becomes unbearable
  • You develop a fever
  • You notice blood in your urine or stool
  • You start vomiting and can't keep down fluids

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of gallstones?

Common symptoms of gallstones include sudden and intense pain in the upper right abdomen, pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder blade, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes jaundice if a stone blocks the bile duct.


How can kidney stones be prevented?

To prevent kidney stones, it's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, reduce salt intake, limit foods high in oxalates (like spinach and nuts), and maintain a balanced diet with adequate calcium.


What are some effective treatments for musculoskeletal pain?

Effective treatments for musculoskeletal pain include rest, ice application, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Physical therapy and exercises may also be recommended.


When should I seek medical attention for severe abdominal pain?

You should seek medical attention for severe abdominal pain if it becomes unbearable, if you develop a fever, notice blood in your urine or stool, or if you start vomiting and cannot keep down fluids.


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