[28F] Experiencing sharp, radiating left abdominal pain with fatigue

Patient Description

A 28-year-old female has been experiencing sharp and radiating pain in the mid to lower left side of the abdomen for over a month. The pain is constant, severe (rated 7/10), and persists regardless of activity, with no relief from various attempted remedies. The patient has also experienced vomiting, which temporarily alleviated the pain, and reports fatigue. There has been recent unintended weight loss, although the abdomen appears swollen. Bowel movements are described as normal, with no blood present in stool or urine. The patient's current medications include Zoloft, Strattera, birth control, Allegra, and ibuprofen 800mg for pain management. There is a noted allergy to penicillin. No other symptoms, pre-existing conditions, or chronic illnesses were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain when they move through the urinary tract. The pain can be sharp, and can radiate from the back to the front of the body.

    • Treatment for kidney stones varies depending on the size of the stone and its location. Small stones can often pass on their own with increased fluid intake, while larger stones may require medical intervention.
  • Diverticulitis: This is an inflammation or infection of small pouches called diverticula that develop along the walls of the intestines. The signs and symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain, fever, and a change in bowel habits.

    • Treatment for diverticulitis can include antibiotics, pain relievers, and medications to relax the muscles in the colon.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is particularly common and can be highly contagious.

    • Treatment for gastroenteritis usually involves rest, hydration and over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both.

    • Treatment of IBS is aimed at relieving symptoms. Lifestyle changes like improving diet, regular exercise and reducing stress can help a lot.

What you can do

  1. Seek immediate medical attention. The severity and duration of your pain, along with your other symptoms, warrant a prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.
  2. Avoid eating large meals. Instead, eat small meals more frequently.
  3. Try to rest and relax as much as possible. Stress can exacerbate many of the conditions that could be causing your symptoms.
  4. Stay hydrated. This is especially important if you've been vomiting.

What you should look out for

  • If your pain becomes unbearable or you develop a high fever, seek immediate medical attention.
  • If you notice blood in your stool or urine, seek immediate medical attention.
  • If your symptoms persist or worsen, make an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Please note that 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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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of kidney stones?

Common symptoms of kidney stones include severe, sharp pain in the side and back, below the ribs, pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity, nausea and vomiting, and frequent urination.


How is diverticulitis typically treated?

Diverticulitis is typically treated with antibiotics to clear the infection, pain relievers to manage discomfort, and sometimes medications to relax the muscles in the colon. In severe cases, hospitalization or surgery may be required.


What lifestyle changes can help manage Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage IBS include eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, avoiding trigger foods, maintaining regular meal times, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and managing stress through techniques like yoga or meditation.


What should I do if I experience severe abdominal pain and vomiting?

If you experience severe abdominal pain and vomiting, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition that requires prompt evaluation and treatment by a healthcare professional.


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2 Comments


Archie#3960

1 yr ago

Careful with taking too much 800mg ibuprofen, it can have renal (kidney) toxicity

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Leo#3962

1 yr ago

Would definitely cut down on the ibuprofen and try a non-NSAID medication instead. For example Tylenol. As a nursing student, have seen a few patients who took lots of ibuprofen for stomach pain and actually developed a stomach bleed. You can't always see blood loss from your GI system in your stool very easily.

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