[38F] Experiencing severe abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting

Patient Description

A 38-year-old female presents with severe, sharp abdominal pain centered around the belly button and radiating to the lower abdomen. The pain, which began last night, is exacerbated by pressure and rated 8/10 in intensity. Heat application provides slight relief. Accompanying symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and rebound tenderness upon palpation. The patient has a history of hypothyroidism, managed with Levothyroxine for over 10 years, and reports an allergy to Sulfa medications. No changes in bowel movements or urination were reported, with the last bowel movement described as normal this morning. No other medications or symptoms were noted.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possible conditions:

  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch located on the lower right side of your abdomen. The pain often starts around the belly button and then shifts to the lower right side. It can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. Appendicitis is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

    • Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the appendix.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually due to a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.
  • Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid.

What you can do

Given the severity of your pain and your symptoms, it's important that you seek immediate medical attention. Please go to the nearest emergency department or call for an ambulance.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms worsen or if you experience any of the following, it's important to seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe, sudden or worsening abdominal pain
  • Blood in your vomit or stool
  • Inability to pass stool, especially if you're also vomiting
  • Abdominal swelling

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important that you seek care from a real health professional to receive a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of appendicitis?

Common symptoms of appendicitis include sharp abdominal pain that often starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and sometimes fever. The pain may worsen with movement or pressure.


How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and other abdominal conditions?

Gastroenteritis typically presents with symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. Unlike appendicitis, the pain is usually more generalized and not localized to the lower right abdomen. It often follows the consumption of contaminated food or water.


What are the typical treatments for a peptic ulcer?

Typical treatments for a peptic ulcer include medications that reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2-receptor antagonists, and antibiotics if the ulcer is caused by H. pylori bacteria. Lifestyle changes, like avoiding NSAIDs and reducing stress, may also be recommended.


When should I seek emergency medical attention for abdominal pain?

You should seek emergency medical attention for abdominal pain if it is severe, sudden, or worsening, if you experience blood in your vomit or stool, if you are unable to pass stool especially if you are also vomiting, or if you notice abdominal swelling.


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