OpenHealth Q&A

Pelvic Discomfort and Tingling Sensation

I'm currently on a regimen of nortriptyline, olanzapine, and lamotrigine for managing bipolar disorder, alongside atogepant for my chronic migraines. I apologize if this is too much information, but approximately six hours ago, while I was at home, I began experiencing a persistent aching sensation. It started in my rectum and quickly radiated downwards and forward, affecting my rectal area, perineum, and vulva. The discomfort is so intense that it feels as if there’s a sharp object lodged in my rectum. Additionally, my perineum feels peculiar when touched—neither numb nor painful, just faintly tingling. I also have a full bladder, but can only manage to relieve myself in small drops. It seems that a bowel movement might ease the discomfort, but all I can manage to pass is a small amount of blood-tinged mucus. Currently, I would rate the pain as a 4 to 5, but it’s worsening. In the past half-hour, the sensation has extended down my legs, which feel weak and unsteady. This came on quite suddenly. There are no accompanying symptoms such as fever, headache, or any signs that might indicate an infection. The discomfort is primarily localized in my pelvic area and is now also spreading upward in front, likely due to my bladder being so full, yet it doesn’t radiate to my back. It’s now 6 AM, and I haven’t managed to get any sleep throughout the night due to this pain. However, I have an important engagement at 2 PM that I’m anxious about missing. Given these symptoms, do you believe this warrants immediate medical attention, or should I consider taking sedatives to help me rest? I’m not in a position to visit urgent care due to costs, but the hospital options are available to me at no charge. That being said, I’m unsure if this is serious enough to justify a trip to the hospital.

Answers (1)

3/21/2025, 5:20:37 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel concerned about your symptoms, especially since they have come on suddenly and are causing significant discomfort. Based on what you've described—persistent pelvic pain, difficulty urinating, blood-tinged mucus, and radiating sensations—these symptoms do warrant immediate medical attention.

Explanation

Your symptoms suggest a possible issue in the pelvic area that could involve the urinary tract, bowel, or reproductive organs. The presence of blood-tinged mucus and difficulty urinating can indicate conditions that require prompt evaluation, such as a urinary tract infection, bowel obstruction, or other significant gastrointestinal or urological issues. The tingling and weakness in your legs, especially now extending downwards, further elevate the concern.

Next Steps

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the sudden nature and severity of your symptoms, especially the blood-tinged mucus and difficulty urinating, it would be best to utilize your hospital options for a timely assessment. This is not a situation to put off.

2. Stay Hydrated: While waiting to seek care, ensure you are drinking water to stay hydrated, unless it causes discomfort.

3. Limit Activity: Try to rest and avoid straining, as this may exacerbate your symptoms.

4. Prepare for Evaluation: Consider noting down any additional symptoms, the changes in your pain level, and anything else you may find relevant. This information can help healthcare providers with your assessment.

While your engagement is important, addressing your health should be the priority. You don’t want to put yourself at risk by delaying necessary treatment. Please take care of yourself and seek the medical attention you need.