[38M] Experiencing dull lower right abdominal pain and dizziness

Patient Description

A 38-year-old male reports having dull abdominal pain in the lower right quadrant, approximately two inches above the pubic hairline, for the past 6 hours, rated as a 3 out of 10 in severity. The pain is associated with light-headedness, described as dizziness, which has been ongoing for about 17 hours and becomes worse when focusing on making decisions. The patient notes a decrease in bowel movement frequency, with the last bowel movement occurring approximately 26 hours ago, and describes the stool as normal. There is no nausea or vomiting, but the patient does experience rebound tenderness in the area of pain. There are no other symptoms reported, and no fever or chills are present.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small organ located in the lower right abdomen. Symptoms typically include a dull pain near the navel or the upper abdomen that becomes sharp as it moves to the lower right abdomen. Other symptoms can include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Appendicitis is a medical emergency that usually requires prompt surgery to remove the appendix. Left untreated, an inflamed appendix will eventually burst, or perforate, spilling infectious materials into the abdominal cavity.

  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the digestive tract, often caused by a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and self-care.

  • Kidney stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Symptoms can include severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs, pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, pain during urination, pink, red or brown urine, and frequent urination. Treatment can involve pain relievers and drinking lots of water to help pass the stone. Medical procedures may be required to remove or break up larger stones.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention given the severity and location of your pain, especially since you're experiencing rebound tenderness. This could be a sign of something serious like appendicitis.

What you should look out for

If your pain becomes severe, you develop a fever, or if you start vomiting, you should seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a serious condition that needs immediate treatment.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of appendicitis?

Common symptoms of appendicitis include dull pain near the navel or upper abdomen that becomes sharp as it moves to the lower right abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Rebound tenderness in the lower right abdomen is also a key symptom.


How can I differentiate between gastroenteritis and appendicitis?

Gastroenteritis often includes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, whereas appendicitis typically involves localized pain in the lower right abdomen, often with rebound tenderness, and may not include diarrhea. Appendicitis is a medical emergency, while gastroenteritis usually resolves with rest and hydration.


What should I do if I suspect I have kidney stones?

If you suspect you have kidney stones, it's important to drink plenty of water to help pass the stone and take pain relievers as needed. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever or blood in the urine, you should seek medical attention as medical procedures may be necessary.


When should I seek medical attention for abdominal pain?

You should seek medical attention for abdominal pain if it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or rebound tenderness. These could be signs of a serious condition like appendicitis that requires immediate treatment.


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