[35M] Experiencing abdominal and back pain post-stomach bug

Patient Description

A 35-year-old male reports crampy abdominal pain rated 5/10 in intensity, located in the mid to lower stomach area, and sharp back pain in the mid-back area near the kidneys, also rated 5/10. These symptoms have been present for 1 day. The abdominal pain comes and goes and is exacerbated by sitting and sometimes lying down. The back pain is worsened by sitting and becomes more severe in the evening. The patient has had small, stringy bowel movements resembling green beans but no blood in stool or urine. There is no fever, chills, recent injuries, or difficulty passing urine. The patient recently recovered from a stomach bug, which included significant weight loss and diarrhea, and is now reintroducing normal foods. Urine color was previously dark yellow to bright yellow but has not been accompanied by nausea or vomiting recently.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a virus or bacteria. It can cause symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. The fact that you recently had a stomach bug and lost weight due to diarrhea suggests this could be a possibility. However, gastroenteritis usually resolves within a week or two.
- Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and a gradual return to normal eating. Antibiotics or antivirals may be necessary in some cases.
Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain in your back or side, blood in your urine, and other symptoms. The fact that you had intense kidney pain that was relieved by drinking water suggests this could be a possibility.
- Treatment may involve pain relief, drinking lots of fluids to help pass the stone, or medical procedures to remove or break up the stone.
Gastritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The fact that you're experiencing stomach pain that feels like something is squeezing it suggests this could be a possibility.
- Treatment usually involves medications to reduce stomach acid and inflammation.

What you can do

You should definitely see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. This can help with a variety of digestive issues and may help if you have kidney stones.
Eat a bland diet: Try eating bland, easy-to-digest foods like rice, bananas, and toast. This can help soothe your stomach.
Avoid triggers: If certain foods or activities make your symptoms worse, try to avoid them.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Severe or worsening pain
Blood in your stool or urine
Persistent vomiting or inability to keep down fluids
High fever (over 100.4°F)
Any other symptoms that concern you

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines