[57M] Experiencing severe left abdominal pain

Patient Description

A 57-year-old male is experiencing a sharp, severe pain in the left abdomen, rated 9 out of 10 in intensity, for the past one and a half days. The pain is constant and has not been accompanied by any other symptoms such as fever, changes in bowel movements, nausea, vomiting, or signs of shock. The patient has a history of diverticulitis diagnosed 10 years ago. Current medications include Nexum for acid reflux, Simvastatin for cholesterol management, Telmisartan for high blood pressure, and Hydrocodone for chronic pain. The patient reports no known drug allergies or adverse reactions to medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Diverticulitis: This is a condition where small pouches in your digestive tract become inflamed or infected. Given your history of diverticulitis, this could be a flare-up. Symptoms typically include severe and sudden pain in the lower left side of the abdomen.

    • Treatment often involves antibiotics and a temporary liquid diet to give your digestive system a chance to rest. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
  • Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain when they move through the urinary tract.

    • Treatment can range from pain medication and drinking lots of water to pass the stone, to medical procedures to remove or break up larger stones.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. It can cause abdominal pain and cramping.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antibiotics may be necessary if it's caused by bacteria.

What you can do

Given the severity of your pain, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. While waiting for medical help:

  1. Try to rest and stay comfortable.
  2. Avoid any food or drink that seems to irritate your digestive system.
  3. Stay hydrated, especially if you've been vomiting or have diarrhea.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • The pain becomes unbearable.
  • You have a high fever.
  • You start vomiting persistently.
  • You notice blood in your stool or urine.
  • Your abdomen is hard or tender to touch.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a diverticulitis flare-up?

Common symptoms of a diverticulitis flare-up include severe and sudden pain in the lower left side of the abdomen, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. However, not all symptoms may be present in every case.


How can kidney stones cause abdominal pain?

Kidney stones can cause abdominal pain when they move through the urinary tract, leading to sharp, cramping pain in the back and side, often radiating to the lower abdomen and groin. This pain can be severe and come in waves.


What are the typical treatments for gastroenteritis?

Typical treatments for gastroenteritis include rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. If the cause is bacterial, antibiotics may be prescribed. It's important to maintain fluid intake to prevent dehydration.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for abdominal pain?

You should seek immediate medical attention for abdominal pain if it becomes unbearable, if you have a high fever, if you start vomiting persistently, if you notice blood in your stool or urine, or if your abdomen is hard or tender to touch.


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