[34F] With severe pain and swelling after a fall
Patient Description
A 34-year-old female experienced a severe fall onto cement, resulting in intense pain and swelling on the left side of her body. The pain is localized to a specific spot and is rated at a 10 out of 10. The patient reports that the pain began immediately after the fall and has progressively worsened. She is experiencing significant difficulty in moving, breathing, and laughing. There is visible bruising and swelling at the site of the pain. The patient has no history of osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions. She uses alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs daily. There are no recent surgeries, medical procedures, or travel history that might increase the risk of injury or infection. No other 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, it sounds like you may have sustained serious injuries, such as broken ribs or a fractured pelvis, from your fall. Here are some possibilities:
- Rib Fracture: Broken ribs can cause severe pain, especially when moving, breathing, or laughing. They can also lead to complications like a punctured lung or pneumonia.
- Pelvic Fracture: A fractured pelvis can be extremely painful and may cause swelling and difficulty moving. This type of injury can also lead to internal bleeding or damage to nearby organs.
Both of these conditions are serious and require immediate medical attention. Typical treatments may include imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to confirm the diagnosis, followed by pain management, rest, and possibly surgery depending on the severity of the fractures.
What you can do
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity of your symptoms and the potential for serious complications, you should go to the emergency room as soon as possible. If you are unable to move or the pain is too severe, call 911 for an ambulance.
- Avoid Movement: Try to stay as still as possible to avoid worsening any potential injuries. If you need to move, do so very carefully and slowly.
- Pain Management: While waiting for medical help, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) to help manage the pain. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen if you suspect internal bleeding.
- Monitor for Complications: Be aware of any new symptoms such as difficulty breathing, increased pain, dizziness, or changes in consciousness. These could indicate complications that require immediate medical intervention.
Please remember, I am not a doctor. It is crucial to seek care from real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your health and safety are the top priority.
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3 mo ago