[38F] Experiencing sharp and mild upper left abdominal pain with frequent urination

Patient Description

A 38-year-old female has been experiencing sharp to mild pain in the upper left side of the abdomen, both front and back, for the past four months. The pain fluctuates in intensity and is rated as a 5 out of 10. It can be alleviated with painkillers or muscle relaxers. Additionally, the patient reports frequent urination every 15 to 20 minutes and sometimes cannot hold it. A recent annual check-up in October 2023 revealed bacteria in the stomach, for which antibiotics were prescribed, suggesting a gastrointestinal infection. The patient is not currently on any medications and has no known drug allergies or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Gastritis or Peptic Ulcer Disease: These conditions are caused by inflammation or erosion of the stomach lining, often due to a bacterial infection (like H. pylori, which you mentioned was found in your recent blood test). Symptoms can include upper abdominal pain and frequent urination.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the bacterial infection, along with medications to reduce stomach acid.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause upper abdominal pain.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications to reduce stomach acid.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is an infection in any part of your urinary system — your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, but some are caused by viruses and fungi. Frequent urination and abdominal pain are common symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection.
  • Interstitial Cystitis (IC): Also known as painful bladder syndrome, IC is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain and sometimes pelvic pain, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. Frequent urination and abdominal pain are common symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medications, or even surgery in severe cases.

Please note, these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and possibly get a referral to a specialist (like a gastroenterologist or urologist).
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they occur, and what foods you've eaten.
  3. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Avoid foods that seem to trigger your symptoms.
  4. Over-the-counter antacids may help with stomach pain, but they should not be used long term without consulting a healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your stool or urine
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Persistent or high fever
  • Severe nausea or vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection?

Common symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever. In some cases, there may also be bloating and a loss of appetite.


How can frequent urination be related to abdominal pain?

Frequent urination can be related to abdominal pain if there is an underlying condition affecting both the urinary and digestive systems, such as a urinary tract infection or interstitial cystitis. These conditions can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to both symptoms.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of GERD?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage GERD symptoms include avoiding foods and drinks that trigger reflux (such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol), eating smaller meals, not lying down immediately after eating, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking.


What are the treatment options for interstitial cystitis?

Treatment options for interstitial cystitis include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, bladder instillations, and in severe cases, surgery. It's important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan.


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