[36F] With severe menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding

Question

What does this seem like

Patient Description

A 36-year-old female is experiencing severe menstrual cramps that feel like contractions and are painful in the lower part of her vagina, radiating side to side and in a straight line. These cramps have been particularly bad for the past two days, and today is the third day. Along with the cramps, she is also experiencing significant back pain and heavy bleeding. She has used twelve tampons and seven pads in a day, and the bleeding has been heavy with clots and bright red in color. This is her third period this month, and she is feeling weak and experiencing headaches despite drinking fluids. She has a history of high blood pressure, diagnosed in 2004. She is allergic to Batrum lycephyll and sodium benzoate. Currently, she is taking Nifedipine 90 mg, EE Prenatal, and Vitamin B12. She also has Spoil Child Collagen and Hair supplements but refrains from using them because they cause headaches.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  1. Dysmenorrhea: This is the medical term for painful menstrual cramps. Primary dysmenorrhea is common and usually begins soon after a woman starts having periods. Secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids.

    • Treatment: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen are typically effective. If these don't help, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications or hormonal treatments such as birth control pills.
  2. Menorrhagia: This refers to abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Since you mentioned using a large number of tampons and pads and having clots, this could be a possibility.

    • Treatment: Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills or an intrauterine device (IUD), can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding. In some cases, surgical options may be considered.
  3. Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and heavy periods.

    • Treatment: Hormonal therapies, pain relievers, and sometimes surgery are used to manage symptoms.
  4. Uterine Fibroids: These are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding and pain.

    • Treatment: Medications to regulate hormones, non-invasive procedures, or surgery may be recommended.

What you can do

While waiting to see a healthcare provider, you can try the following to help manage your symptoms:

  1. Pain Relief: Since over-the-counter medications like Midol and Tylenol haven't been effective, you might try nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, if you haven't already. These can help reduce inflammation and pain.

  2. Hydration: Continue drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially since you mentioned feeling weak and having headaches.

  3. Rest: Try to rest as much as possible. Lying down with a heating pad on your lower abdomen may provide some relief.

  4. Track Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including the amount of bleeding, pain levels, and any other symptoms. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe Pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or significantly worsens.
  • Excessive Bleeding: If you continue to soak through sanitary products rapidly (more than one pad or tampon per hour for several hours).
  • Signs of Anemia: Such as extreme fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
  • Fever: A temperature over 100.4°F, which could indicate an infection.

Important Note

Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your symptoms are significant and warrant professional medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and best course of action.

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8 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of severe menstrual cramps?

Severe menstrual cramps can be caused by primary dysmenorrhea, which is common and usually not linked to any other health issues. However, secondary dysmenorrhea can be due to conditions like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.


How can heavy menstrual bleeding be managed?

Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, can be managed with hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or an IUD, which help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce bleeding. In some cases, surgical options may be necessary. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.


What are the symptoms and treatments for endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and heavy periods. Symptoms include severe menstrual cramps, chronic pelvic pain, and heavy bleeding. Treatments include hormonal therapies, pain relievers, and sometimes surgery to remove the endometrial tissue.


When should someone seek medical attention for menstrual symptoms?

Medical attention should be sought if menstrual symptoms include severe pain that is unbearable, excessive bleeding (soaking through sanitary products rapidly), signs of anemia like extreme fatigue or dizziness, or a fever over 100.4°F, which could indicate an infection. These symptoms warrant professional evaluation.


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Patricia#17104

8 mo ago

Have you ever had an episode like this before?

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