[23F] Experiencing upper abdominal pain and other symptoms

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female presents with a 12-hour history of intense cramping localized to the upper abdomen beneath the ribcage. Accompanying symptoms include a throbbing headache rated 8/10 in intensity, located at the front and sides of the head, also persisting for 12 hours. The patient reports frequent headaches in the past. Additional symptoms include nausea, dizziness, a low-grade fever, and general upset stomach. The patient denies any recent injuries or accidents and states that no specific activities or triggers worsen the headache. No relief from the headache has been noted with any interventions thus far. The patient is not pregnant and has not mentioned any other chronic conditions or medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Gastritis: Inflammation of the lining of the stomach, often caused by a bacterial infection, long-term use of NSAIDs, or excessive alcohol use. Symptoms can include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if applicable, antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection.
  • Gastroenteritis: Often referred to as the "stomach flu," this condition is typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.
  • Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause pain in the upper right abdomen.

    • Treatment can range from lifestyle changes to surgical removal of the gallbladder, depending on the severity of symptoms and the size of the gallstones.
  • Migraine: A type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also be causing your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime:

  1. Try to stay hydrated, especially if you've been vomiting.
  2. Avoid foods that are hard to digest.
  3. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the pain, but avoid those that can irritate the stomach, like ibuprofen.
  4. Rest as much as possible.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your pain becomes severe or unbearable
  • You start vomiting blood or have blood in your stool
  • Your fever rises above 101°F
  • You become confused or disoriented
  • You experience a severe headache that comes on suddenly

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of gastritis and how is it treated?

Gastritis is often caused by a bacterial infection, long-term use of NSAIDs, or excessive alcohol use. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and, if applicable, antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection.


How can I differentiate between a migraine and a regular headache?

Migraines are characterized by severe, throbbing pain, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Regular headaches may not have these additional symptoms and are usually less intense.


What are the symptoms of gallstones and how are they treated?

Symptoms of gallstones include pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment can range from lifestyle changes to surgical removal of the gallbladder, depending on the severity of symptoms and the size of the gallstones.


What should I do if I suspect I have gastroenteritis?

If you suspect you have gastroenteritis, it's important to rest, stay hydrated, and manage symptoms with over-the-counter remedies. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent.


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