[38F] Experiencing sharp, constant lower abdominal pain with fever and vomiting

Patient Description

A 38-year-old female reports experiencing sharp and constant pain around the belly button, radiating to the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. The pain began last night and is severe enough to wake the patient from sleep. The pain intensifies with movement or when pressure is applied to the abdomen. The patient finds some relief when lying still, curled up in a ball. Accompanying symptoms include fever, chills, and vomiting. The patient's last bowel movement was this morning and appeared normal. There are no changes in urination, such as burning or increased frequency. The patient did not mention rebound tenderness specifically. No other symptoms were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small organ attached to the large intestine. It typically presents with pain around the belly button that then moves to the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. The pain is often severe, gets worse with movement, and is associated with nausea, vomiting, and fever.

    • Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the appendix. Antibiotics may also be given.
  • Ovarian Cyst: This is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. It can cause pain in the lower abdomen, especially if it ruptures or causes the ovary to twist. However, it's less likely given your symptoms of fever and vomiting.

    • Treatment can range from monitoring to surgery, depending on the size and effect of the cyst.
  • Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Pain can be severe and usually starts in the back or side below the ribs, but can radiate to the lower abdomen and groin. Fever and chills can occur if an infection is present. However, you didn't mention any urinary symptoms which are common with kidney stones.

    • Treatment includes pain relief, drinking lots of fluids, and in some cases, medical procedures.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Appendicitis is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment.

What you should look out for

Watch for worsening symptoms, such as:

  • Increased intensity of your abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Blood in your stool or urine
  • High fever

Please remember, 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 appendicitis?

Common symptoms of appendicitis include sharp abdominal pain that starts around the belly button and moves to the lower right quadrant, fever, nausea, vomiting, and pain that worsens with movement.


How is appendicitis typically treated?

Appendicitis is typically treated with surgery to remove the appendix, known as an appendectomy. Antibiotics may also be administered to treat any infection.


Can an ovarian cyst cause similar symptoms to appendicitis?

Yes, an ovarian cyst can cause lower abdominal pain, especially if it ruptures or causes the ovary to twist. However, fever and vomiting are less common with ovarian cysts compared to appendicitis.


What are the signs that kidney stones might be causing abdominal pain?

Signs that kidney stones might be causing abdominal pain include severe pain that starts in the back or side below the ribs and radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, along with possible fever, chills, and urinary symptoms like blood in the urine or painful urination.


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