[26M] Experiencing sharp abdominal pains and fever

Patient Description

A 26-year-old male has been experiencing recurring sharp pains in the navel area for over 2 days, rated at a severity of 6.5 out of 10. The pain is particularly worse in the evenings and has not been alleviated by usual remedies such as liver salt. Accompanying symptoms include a high body temperature that manifests in the evenings and subsides by morning, ongoing for over a month. The patient's urine is yellowish, and stools are brownish and watery. Recently, the patient has felt lightweight and noted redness in the eyes. The patient has started taking an antimalarial drug and a deworming medication today, prescribed for 2 days and 6 days, respectively. Past medical history includes convulsions in childhood, which ceased 21 years ago. There are no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications. The patient has not been tested for Covid-19 despite the prolonged fever.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, usually caused by a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected.

  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch located on the lower right side of the abdomen. It typically causes severe pain in the lower right abdomen, but can also cause pain around the navel. Fever, nausea, and vomiting may also occur.

    • Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the appendix.

  • Peptic Ulcer Disease: These are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. Pain is often felt in the upper abdomen (above the navel), but can also be felt around the navel.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to decrease stomach acid and protect the stomach lining.

  • Gallstones: These are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can cause pain in the upper right abdomen or around the navel. Fever and yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) may also occur.

    • Treatment may involve medication to dissolve the stones or surgery to remove the gallbladder.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions may also cause your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Blood in your stool or dark, tarry stools
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • High fever or chills

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common causes of abdominal pain around the navel?

Common causes of abdominal pain around the navel include gastroenteritis, appendicitis, peptic ulcer disease, and gallstones. Other potential causes could be hernias, intestinal obstructions, or infections.

How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and appendicitis?

Gastroenteritis often presents with diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, and the pain is usually diffuse. Appendicitis typically causes severe pain that starts around the navel and then shifts to the lower right abdomen, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. A medical evaluation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

What are the symptoms of jaundice and what might cause it?

Symptoms of jaundice include yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, and pale stools. It can be caused by liver diseases, gallstones, or infections that affect the liver or bile ducts.

When should I seek medical attention for abdominal pain and fever?

You should seek medical attention if you experience severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, blood in your stool, dark, tarry stools, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or a high fever or chills. These could indicate a serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

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