[49F] Experiencing low back pain, nausea, low fever, and bloating

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs can cause lower back pain and fever, but usually, they also cause painful urination, which you did not report.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional.

• Kidney Stones: These can cause severe pain in the back or side, below the ribs, and can also cause nausea and fever. However, you would typically also experience pain during urination, which you did not report.

  • Treatment can range from pain management and drinking lots of water to pass the stone, to medical procedures to remove or break up larger stones.

• Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): This can cause nausea, low-grade fever, and bloating. Back pain is less common but can occur due to dehydration or strain from vomiting or diarrhea.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics or antivirals may be prescribed if a bacterial or viral infection is confirmed.

• Gallstones: These can cause nausea and back pain, but the pain is usually concentrated on the right side of the upper abdomen or back.

  • Treatment can range from dietary changes to medications to dissolve the stones, to surgery in more severe cases.

• Ovarian Cysts: These can cause bloating, lower back pain, and nausea. However, they often cause pain in the lower abdomen, which you did not report.

  • Treatment can range from monitoring the cysts to hormonal birth control pills to prevent new cysts, to surgery in more severe cases.

What you can do

Given your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. While waiting for your appointment:

1. Rest and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid any food or drink that seems to worsen your symptoms.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with your back pain. Be sure to follow the package instructions.
3. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they occur, and anything that makes them better or worse.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

• Notice blood in your stool or urine
• Have severe abdominal pain
• Experience persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Develop a high fever (over 101°F)

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.