Persistent Lower Right Abdominal Discomfort - Normal Ultrasound Findings
A 30-year-old female, weighing 60 kg and measuring 145 cm, generally enjoys good health apart from having celiac disease. Last Monday, during a workout session that included abdominal exercises, I experienced a sudden and intense pain, similar to an electric shock, localized in the lower right area of my abdomen, just above the pelvis. This discomfort radiated to my upper thigh and lower back. By Thursday, the pain intensified significantly, accompanied by dizziness and nausea, prompting my visit to the emergency department due to concerns about appendicitis. Blood tests and urine analysis yielded normal results, revealing only a slightly elevated inflammatory marker, which, according to the medical team, was not concerning. I subsequently underwent an abdominal and pelvic ultrasound, which returned normal results, with the report stating that the appendix could not be visualized. Although the discomfort has improved somewhat, it remains present and bothersome. My physician has advised postponing a CT scan for about a week, unless my symptoms worsen, necessitating earlier intervention. I find myself quite perplexed by the situation and would appreciate any insights or recommendations. Thank you.
Answers (1)
3/24/2025, 4:30:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing persistent discomfort in your lower right abdomen after a sudden, intense pain during your workout. Although your tests, including blood work and ultrasound, have come back normal, it's understandable to feel concerned about ongoing symptoms.
Explanation:
Your symptoms—especially the initial sharp pain, followed by dizziness and nausea—could have several potential causes, such as muscular strain, nerve irritation from the intense exercise, or gastrointestinal issues. Since you have a history of celiac disease, gastrointestinal factors might also be considered. The slight elevation in inflammation markers may indicate a mild reaction but isn't alarming if your other tests were negative.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily record of your symptoms, noting when pain occurs, its intensity, and any activities that trigger it. This can help identify patterns or specific causes.
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Rest and Modify Activities: Avoid activities that involve heavy lifting or intense abdominal exercises for now. Allow your body some time to heal and recover.
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Manage Discomfort: Use heat therapy (like a warm compress) on the affected area to help alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain relief such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used as needed, but follow recommended dosages.
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Hydration and Diet: Ensure you stay well-hydrated and consider maintaining a diet that's gentle on your digestive system, especially given your celiac disease. Focus on whole, gluten-free foods that your body tolerates well.
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Follow-Up Plan: Since your physician suggested monitoring before proceeding with a CT scan, adhere to this guideline. Reach out to your healthcare provider sooner if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms arise, such as fever, increased pain, or changes in bowel habits.
Remember, it's okay to feel uneasy when experiencing unexplained symptoms, but maintaining open communication with your doctor and keeping an eye on your symptoms will help you manage this situation effectively. Let me know if you need more guidance!
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