Discomfort in the Lower Right Back
Greetings, I am a 21-year-old female weighing approximately 150 pounds and standing five feet tall. Recently, I have been experiencing pain in my lower back and flank area. The discomfort began last night and has unfortunately returned this evening. Additionally, I've dealt with intermittent diarrhea throughout the weekend. For reference, I have been taking propranolol and famotidine, though I discontinued their use abruptly recently. I tend to experience significant health anxiety and would appreciate guidance on whether this situation warrants concern or if there are specific symptoms I should monitor closely.
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 12:20:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing discomfort in your lower back accompanied by intermittent diarrhea, which can be concerning, especially given your past health anxiety. There are several potential reasons for these symptoms, and it's important to take a thoughtful approach based on what you're experiencing.
Main Points:
- Lower back pain can arise from various causes, and the diarrhea could relate to a gastrointestinal issue or stress.
- Taking note of additional symptoms is essential to determine the urgency of the situation.
Explanation: Lower back pain may result from muscle strain, irritation of nerves, or issues related to the digestive system, especially if accompanied by diarrhea. The sudden discontinuation of medications like propranolol (often used for anxiety and heart issues) and famotidine (for stomach acid) might also impact your symptoms, particularly if you were relying on them for anxiety management or digestive issues.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of where the pain is located, its intensity, and if it radiates to other areas. Note any changes in your bowel habits, such as the consistency and frequency of diarrhea. If you notice any worsening of the pain or symptoms like fever, increased nausea, or blood in your stool, these would be red flags.
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Stay Hydrated: With diarrhea, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and consider using an electrolyte solution to replace any lost fluids.
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Gentle Activity: If you can, try light stretching or walking. This can sometimes alleviate back pain and help you gauge your level of discomfort.
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Relaxation Techniques: Given your health anxiety, practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises to help manage your worries during this time.
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Assess Medication Needs: If anxiety from medication discontinuation is contributing to your discomfort, consider establishing a plan with your healthcare provider to address medication needs without abrupt changes.
By following these steps, you can actively manage your situation while monitoring symptoms. If your discomfort persists beyond a few days or your symptoms worsen, seeking medical advice for further evaluation may be appropriate. Remember, it's okay to seek help if you're feeling overwhelmed by these symptoms.
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