[39F] Experiencing severe lower left back pain and nausea

Patient Description

A 39-year-old female has been experiencing severe, sharp pain in the lower left side of her back for almost 2 years, rating the pain intensity as 10/10. The onset of symptoms is believed to be related to a COVID-19 vaccination, which was followed by two falls on ice affecting both hips. The patient reports that physical activity exacerbates the pain, and no interventions have been found to relieve it. Accompanying the back pain, the patient has been feeling nauseated for the past 45 minutes, rating the nausea as 8/10 in severity. Lying down appears to alleviate the nausea, which is described as a churning sensation similar to that experienced on a swing. The patient also experiences joint stiffness occasionally and describes a need to rest frequently as if 'charging batteries.' No changes in urine, no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications, and no current medications. The patient does not have any pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Musculoskeletal pain: This is often due to injury or overuse of muscles, ligaments, nerves, and tendons. Your description of sharp pain in your lower left back, which worsens with physical activity, aligns with this. The falls you've experienced could have also contributed to this pain.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, and sometimes surgery.
  • Kidney stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain in the back or side, along with nausea. However, you didn't mention any changes in your urine, which are often present with kidney stones.

    • Treatment may involve pain medication, drinking lots of fluids, or medical procedures to remove or break up the stones.
  • Gastrointestinal issues: Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gallstones can cause nausea and back pain. However, these conditions often cause additional symptoms like changes in bowel movements, which you didn't mention.

    • Treatment depends on the specific condition and may involve changes in diet, medication, or surgery.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation.

What you can do

  1. Rest: Avoid activities that worsen your back pain. This can help your body heal and prevent further injury.
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen can help manage your pain. However, they should be used sparingly and only as directed on the label.
  3. Hydrate: Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent kidney stones.
  4. Seek medical attention: Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to see a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination, order tests if necessary, and provide appropriate treatment.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe pain that doesn't improve with rest or over-the-counter medication
  • Blood in your urine
  • Fever or chills
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Numbness or tingling in your legs

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and treatment.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


Can musculoskeletal pain last for two years and what are the treatment options?

Yes, musculoskeletal pain can persist for a long time, especially if not properly treated. Treatment options include rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, and in some cases, surgery. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a tailored treatment plan.


Could the COVID-19 vaccination be related to my back pain?

There is currently no scientific evidence directly linking COVID-19 vaccination to chronic back pain. However, if you suspect a connection, it's important to discuss this with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.


What are the symptoms of kidney stones and how are they treated?

Symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain in the back or side, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes changes in urine such as blood or cloudy appearance. Treatment may involve pain management, increased fluid intake, or medical procedures to remove or break up the stones.


How can I manage nausea that accompanies back pain?

Managing nausea can involve lying down, staying hydrated, and avoiding foods that trigger nausea. Over-the-counter anti-nausea medications may help, but it's best to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment, especially if nausea is severe or persistent.


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