[40F] Experiencing post-treatment symptoms following BV medication

Patient Description

A 40-year-old female presents with a one-week history of lower abdominal and pelvic cramping, which began after her menstrual cycle that was lighter than usual. The cramps vary in severity, with a peak intensity of 8/10, and are currently at a 5/10 in severity, unresponsive to activities or movements but alleviated by a heat pad. She also reports lower back pain on the right side, which started the previous night and has a current severity of 7/10, described as a sharp pain at times but mostly a dull ache. Additionally, she experiences dull aches and tingling in both upper thighs, extending down the legs, with a mild severity of 3/10, and similar sensations in her arms, rated 2 or 3/10. The patient also reports an overall sense of weakness and lack of motivation for daily activities, as well as feeling cold with a temperature of 99°F. These symptoms commenced after treatment with an antibiotic gel for bacterial vaginosis (BV) the previous week. She has no known pre-existing conditions, no allergies to medications, but an allergy to nickel, and is currently taking Lutera for birth control.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be possible:

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It's usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection. Symptoms might include pain in your lower abdomen and pelvis.
- Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection.
Endometriosis: This is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is found outside of the uterus. It can cause pain and irregular bleeding.
- Treatment can involve pain relievers, hormone therapy, or surgery.
Ovarian Cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the ovaries. They can cause pain, bloating, and irregular periods.
- Treatment can range from monitoring the cysts to surgery to remove them.
Side effects from the antibiotic gel: Some antibiotics can cause side effects like abdominal pain, cramping, and general discomfort.
- Treatment would involve stopping the medication and seeking medical advice.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms.
Keep track of your symptoms and any changes, as this can be helpful information for your healthcare provider.
Try over-the-counter pain relievers for temporary relief, but avoid taking them for an extended period without consulting a healthcare provider.
Rest and stay hydrated.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe abdominal pain
Fever
Vomiting
Fainting or dizziness
Heavy vaginal bleeding

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 accurate information.

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11 mo ago

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[40F] Experiencing post-treatment symptoms following BV medication

What might be happening

What you can do

What you should look out for

Experiencing symptoms?