[50M] Experiencing back pain, tingling, and abdominal issues

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica): This condition is caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots that emerge from the lumbar spine. It can cause sharp pain in the lower back, hip, and leg, as well as tingling and numbness in the leg and foot.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain management (like the Naproxen you're already taking), and sometimes surgery in severe cases.

• Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back that can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing back pain and numbness or weakness in one or both legs.

  • Treatment can include physical therapy, medications to relieve pain and inflammation, and in some cases, surgery.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This is a result of damage to your peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body. Your elevated blood sugar levels could be a possible cause.

  • Treatment typically involves managing the condition causing the neuropathy. Pain relief and other treatments to reduce symptoms can be helpful.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.

  • Treatment focuses on long-term management of the condition, and can include changes in diet, medication, and stress management.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms, but there may be other causes. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Continue taking your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
2. Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. This can help manage your high blood pressure and elevated sugar levels, and may also help with your back pain.
3. Try to identify any triggers for your abdominal pain and bloating. This could be certain foods or stress. Avoiding these triggers can help manage your symptoms.
4. Consider over-the-counter pain relievers for your back pain, but always check with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn't improve with rest
• Pain after a fall or an injury
• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs
• Changes in bowel or bladder control
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare provider.