[42M] Experiencing severe lower abdominal pain

Patient Description

A 42-year-old male has been experiencing severe, knife-like pain in the lower abdomen for 2 months, rated 7 out of 10 in intensity. The pain is persistent and has not been alleviated by any measures. The patient's bowel movements are described as hard, but there are no other accompanying symptoms such as fever, chills, or changes in bowel habits. The patient has no known drug allergies, no other medications, and no significant past medical history.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Constipation: This is a common condition that is characterized by hard stools that are difficult to pass. It can cause pain in the lower abdomen, which can be severe at times.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes such as increasing dietary fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, and regular physical activity. Over-the-counter or prescription medications may also be recommended by a healthcare provider.
  • Diverticulitis: This is a condition where small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected, causing severe abdominal pain. It is more common in people over the age of 40.

    • Treatment for diverticulitis often includes antibiotics to treat the infection and a temporary change to a low fiber or clear liquid diet to let the colon rest.
  • Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys and can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract.

    • Treatment can include pain relievers, drinking lots of water to help pass the stone, and in some cases, medical procedures to remove or break up larger stones.
  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small organ attached to the large intestine. It can cause severe pain in the lower right abdomen.

    • Treatment for appendicitis usually involves surgery to remove the appendix.

Please note that these are potential causes and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. If the pain is severe or worsening, seek immediate medical attention.
  2. If the pain is manageable, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms.
  3. In the meantime, try to maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fluids and fiber to help with bowel movements.
  4. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the pain, but they should not be used as a long-term solution.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • The pain becomes severe or unbearable
  • You develop a fever
  • You start vomiting
  • You notice blood in your stool or urine
  • You cannot pass gas or have a bowel movement

Please remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common causes of severe lower abdominal pain in adults?

Common causes of severe lower abdominal pain in adults include constipation, diverticulitis, kidney stones, and appendicitis. Each condition has distinct characteristics and may require different treatments.


How can constipation lead to severe abdominal pain?

Constipation can lead to severe abdominal pain because hard stools can be difficult to pass, causing strain and discomfort in the lower abdomen. This can sometimes result in a sharp, knife-like pain.


What are the symptoms and treatment options for diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon become inflamed or infected, leading to symptoms like severe abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. Treatment often involves antibiotics and dietary changes to allow the colon to heal.


When should someone with abdominal pain seek immediate medical attention?

Immediate medical attention should be sought if abdominal pain becomes severe or unbearable, if there is a fever, vomiting, blood in stool or urine, or if there is an inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement.


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