[47F] Experiencing sudden, sharp lower abdominal pain and swollen groin lymph node

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female presents with sudden, sharp pain in the lower abdomen, rated at a severity of 7/10, that started approximately 2 hours ago. The pain is localized mainly on the left side near the belly button but spreads to the lower abdomen when moving. The patient reports the pain causes shallow breathing due to its intensity. Additionally, the patient has noticed a swollen lymph node in the groin area, which is tender and sore, identified about an hour ago. There are no alleviating factors for the stomach pain. The patient has also started experiencing chills. There is no nausea, vomiting, fever, recent weight changes, or alterations in bowel habits. The stool is described as brown and solid. No other symptoms were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Appendicitis: This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It typically causes severe pain in the lower right abdomen, but can sometimes cause pain around the belly button or on the left side if the appendix is located there. The pain is usually sudden and severe, and can be accompanied by tenderness in the area, fever, and chills.

    • Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the appendix.

  • 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, and can radiate to the lower abdomen and groin. The pain may come in waves and fluctuate in intensity.

    • Treatment can involve pain relief, drinking lots of fluids to help pass the stone, or medical procedures to remove or break up larger stones.

  • Ovarian cyst: This is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away without treatment in a few months. However, ovarian cysts can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain in the lower abdomen, bloating, and tenderness in the area.

    • Treatment can involve monitoring the cyst, birth control pills to prevent new cysts from forming, or surgery to remove the cyst.

  • Diverticulitis: This is an inflammation or infection of small pouches called diverticula that develop along the walls of the intestines. The formation of these pouches is known as diverticulosis. Diverticulitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and chills.

    • Treatment can involve antibiotics, a liquid diet to allow the colon to heal, or surgery in severe cases.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. While waiting for medical help, try to rest and avoid eating or drinking in case you need surgery.

What you should look out for

Watch out for worsening symptoms, such as:

  • Increasing pain or pain that becomes constant
  • High fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blood in your stool or urine

Please remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of appendicitis?

Common symptoms of appendicitis include sudden pain that begins on the right side of the lower abdomen, pain that worsens with movement, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and sometimes fever. The pain may start around the belly button and then move to the lower right abdomen.

How can kidney stones be diagnosed and treated?

Kidney stones can be diagnosed through imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment may include pain relief, increased fluid intake to help pass the stone, and medical procedures like lithotripsy to break up larger stones. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

What are the signs that an ovarian cyst might require medical attention?

Signs that an ovarian cyst might require medical attention include severe or sharp pelvic pain, pain accompanied by fever or vomiting, and symptoms of shock such as cold, clammy skin, rapid breathing, and lightheadedness. Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare provider are important.

What lifestyle changes can help prevent diverticulitis?

To help prevent diverticulitis, it is recommended to eat a high-fiber diet, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. These lifestyle changes can help maintain healthy bowel function and reduce the risk of developing diverticula.

1 Comments

Leo#3962

8 mo ago

This does sound like appendicitis, or at least that will need to be ruled out by CT or ultrasound. Please go to the emergency department asap!

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