[33F] With lower left abdominal and middle left back pain, high INR, and history of multiple conditions

Patient Description

A 33-year-old female presents with sharp, constant lower left abdominal pain and middle left back pain for the past few days. The pain has gradually worsened and is rated 7 out of 10 in intensity. The patient reports no relief from the pain, which is exacerbated when lying on her back or stomach and after eating. She also experiences nausea but no vomiting. The patient had a high INR test result of 8.0 yesterday and has been accidentally double-dosing Warfarin for over a week. She has a history of sarcoidosis, antiphospholipid syndrome, GERD, and hypertension, all diagnosed in 2020. She underwent a partial hysterectomy in 2016 without complications. The patient denies any recent changes in bowel habits, fever, chills, blood in urine, unusual bruising, or bleeding. No recent travel or allergies to medications are reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, there are several serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  1. Internal Bleeding: Given your high INR (International Normalized Ratio) of 8.0 and the fact that you have been accidentally double-dosing on Warfarin, there is a significant risk of internal bleeding. This could be causing your sharp, constant abdominal and back pain. Internal bleeding is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

  2. Kidney Issues: The combination of lower abdominal pain and back pain could indicate a problem with your kidneys, such as a kidney infection or kidney stones. However, given your high INR, internal bleeding is a more pressing concern.

  3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding could also cause sharp abdominal pain, especially if exacerbated by eating. Again, the high INR increases the risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity of your symptoms and the high risk of internal bleeding due to your elevated INR, you should seek immediate medical attention. Go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 for an ambulance. Do not drive yourself; have someone else take you if possible.

  2. Avoid Eating or Drinking: Until you are seen by a medical professional, avoid eating or drinking anything, as this could exacerbate your symptoms.

  3. Monitor for Additional Symptoms: Keep an eye out for any new symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, increased pain, or any signs of external bleeding (such as bruising or bleeding gums). If any of these occur, inform the medical professionals immediately.

  4. Bring Your Medication Information: When you go to the hospital, bring all your medications with you, including the Warfarin, so the healthcare providers can see exactly what you have been taking.

Remember, I am not a doctor, and this advice is based on the information you have provided. It is crucial to seek care from real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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5 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the risks of having a high INR level while on Warfarin?

A high INR level indicates that your blood is taking longer to clot, which increases the risk of bleeding, including internal bleeding. This can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention to adjust your medication and prevent complications.


Can internal bleeding cause both abdominal and back pain?

Yes, internal bleeding can cause both abdominal and back pain. The pain may result from blood accumulating in the abdominal cavity or affecting nearby organs, which can also lead to referred pain in the back.


How can accidental double-dosing of Warfarin affect my health?

Accidental double-dosing of Warfarin can significantly increase your INR, leading to a higher risk of bleeding complications. This can include internal bleeding, which is a medical emergency, and requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment.


What symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention when on blood thinners like Warfarin?

Symptoms that should prompt immediate medical attention when on blood thinners include severe or persistent pain, signs of bleeding (such as unusual bruising, bleeding gums, or blood in urine or stool), dizziness, fainting, or any sudden changes in your condition. These could indicate serious complications like internal bleeding.


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