[36F] Experiencing severe back pain, headache, and gastrointestinal symptoms

Patient Description

A 36-year-old female presents with a 12-hour history of severe, throbbing pain in the back, hips, and legs, rated 8 out of 10 in severity, which worsens with sitting or laying down and radiates down the legs. The patient also reports a throbbing headache, primarily behind the eyes, exacerbated by light, and rated 7 out of 10 in severity. Additionally, she experiences stomach ache with nausea and an achy feeling in the gut, also rated 8 out of 10 in severity, along with lethargy attributed to lack of sleep. The patient vomited once in the morning and has had difficulty with appetite. She has had on and off fever or chills. The patient is currently taking sertraline 25mg, with no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications and no pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Viral Syndrome: Your symptoms of back pain, headache, stomach ache, and lethargy, along with the fever and chills, could be due to a viral infection, such as the flu. Viral syndromes are often characterized by a variety of symptoms that can affect various parts of the body.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms.
  • Migraine: Your throbbing headache, particularly behind the eyes, and sensitivity to light are common symptoms of a migraine. Migraines can also cause nausea and vomiting.

    • Treatment for migraines often involves rest in a dark, quiet room, hydration, and over-the-counter or prescription medications.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually resulting from a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, and general malaise.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and eating bland foods when you feel able to.

Please note that these are possible explanations and not definitive diagnoses. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

  1. Rest and hydrate: Regardless of the cause, rest and hydration are key to recovery. Try to get plenty of sleep and drink fluids to stay hydrated.
  2. Over-the-counter medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the back pain and headache. Over-the-counter medications can also help with the stomach ache and nausea.
  3. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen or persist for more than a few days.

What you should look out for

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

  • Severe headache or a headache that is worsening
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep down fluids
  • High fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
  • Symptoms that persist for more than a few days or worsen over time

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare provider.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a viral syndrome like the flu?

Common symptoms of a viral syndrome such as the flu include fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, headache, sore throat, cough, and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting.


How can I differentiate between a migraine and a regular headache?

Migraines are often characterized by a throbbing or pulsing headache, usually on one side of the head, and can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Regular headaches may not have these additional symptoms and are usually less severe.


What are the typical symptoms and causes of gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis typically presents with symptoms like stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever. It is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, and can also result from food poisoning.


What over-the-counter medications can help with symptoms like headache and nausea?

Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate headache and body pain. For nausea, medications like dimenhydrinate or meclizine may be helpful. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare provider if needed.


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