[38F] Experiencing cramping abdominal pain with fever and chills

Patient Description

A 38-year-old female presents with cramping abdominal pain throughout the lower abdomen that began yesterday. The pain intensity is rated as a 6 out of 10 and is somewhat alleviated by heat application. Accompanying symptoms include fever, chills, and nausea. Bowel movements are reported to be normal as of this morning, and there is no presence of blood in stool or urine. The patient denies vomiting, diarrhea, and any changes in urination. There is no known drug allergies, no current medications, and the patient has no significant past medical history.

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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 stomach and intestines, usually resulting from a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, and fever.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to help with symptoms.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Although you didn't report changes in urination, UTIs can sometimes cause lower abdominal pain and fever.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It can cause lower abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics.
  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small organ on the right side of the abdomen. It can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.

    • Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the appendix.

What you can do

Given your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, here are a few things you can do:

  1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if you have a fever.
  2. Rest: Give your body a chance to recover.
  3. Over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the pain, but they won't treat the underlying cause.

What you should look out for

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

  • The pain becomes severe or unbearable.
  • You start vomiting.
  • You notice blood in your stool or urine.
  • Your symptoms worsen or don't improve within 24 hours.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of gastroenteritis?

Common symptoms of gastroenteritis include cramping abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and sometimes chills. It is often caused by viral or bacterial infections.


Can a urinary tract infection cause abdominal pain without changes in urination?

Yes, a urinary tract infection can sometimes cause lower abdominal pain and fever without noticeable changes in urination, especially in the early stages or if the infection is mild.


What are the signs and symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, fever, unusual vaginal discharge, pain during intercourse, and irregular menstrual bleeding. It is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.


How can I differentiate between appendicitis and other causes of abdominal pain?

Appendicitis typically presents with sudden onset of severe pain in the lower right abdomen, which may start around the navel and then shift. It is often accompanied by fever, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. If you suspect appendicitis, seek immediate medical attention as it requires surgical intervention.


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