[24F] Experiencing headache, swelling, and body pain

Patient Description

A 24-year-old female presents with a sudden onset of an aching headache rated 7/10 in severity, localized to the front forehead area, worsening with coughing, and persisting for 3 days. She also reports puffy swelling in her fingers and ankles, cold feet, and sharp shoulder pain rated 10/10 in severity, all of which began 3 days ago. Additionally, she experiences cramping in her stomach, rated 5/10 in severity, with a feeling of hunger but an inability to eat, lasting for 5 days. The patient has sharp back pain, constant but worsening with coughing, rated 5/10 in severity, also present for 3 days. She notes redness associated with the swelling in her fingers. The patient has experienced changes in vision, neck stiffness, and fever. She denies nausea or vomiting. The patient reports possible recent exposure to fentanyl and is currently taking Abilify for borderline personality disorder. No known allergies, medical history, or other medications were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Viral Illness: Your symptoms of headache, body pain, and stomach cramps could be due to a viral illness, such as the flu. The sudden onset and the presence of multiple symptoms affecting different parts of the body are typical of viral illnesses.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms.
  • Drug Reaction or Withdrawal: Given your recent use of fentanyl, it's possible that some of your symptoms could be related to drug use, reaction, or withdrawal. Symptoms can vary widely and can include changes in body temperature, swelling, and pain.

    • Treatment involves discontinuing the drug (under medical supervision) and managing symptoms. In some cases, medication may be needed to manage withdrawal symptoms.
  • Side Effects of Abilify: Some of your symptoms may be side effects of your medication, Abilify. While it's less common, Abilify can cause symptoms like headache and stomach discomfort.

    • Treatment involves discussing these side effects with your doctor, who may adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.

What you can do

  1. Rest and hydrate: Regardless of the cause, rest and hydration can help your body recover. Try to get plenty of sleep and drink fluids throughout the day.
  2. Over-the-counter medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage your headache and body pain. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package.
  3. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any changes. This will be useful information for your doctor.
  4. Consult a doctor: Given the severity and number of your symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a more accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms
  • You have difficulty breathing
  • You experience severe pain
  • You have a high fever (temperature over 100.4°F)

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. Always consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What could cause a sudden onset of headache and body pain?

A sudden onset of headache and body pain can be caused by a viral illness, such as the flu, or could be related to drug reactions or withdrawal. It's important to consider recent exposures or changes in medication.


Can fentanyl exposure lead to symptoms like swelling and pain?

Yes, exposure to fentanyl can lead to a variety of symptoms, including swelling, pain, and changes in body temperature. These could be due to a reaction to the drug or withdrawal symptoms.


Are stomach cramps and a feeling of hunger common side effects of Abilify?

While less common, Abilify can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach cramps and changes in appetite. It's important to discuss these symptoms with your doctor.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for these symptoms?

You should seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms worsen, you develop new symptoms, experience difficulty breathing, severe pain, or have a high fever over 100.4°F.


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