Seeking Insight on Hernia and Kidney Pain - Need Help with Ultrasound Results
Age: 41 Sex: Male Height: 5 feet 11 inches Weight: 150 pounds Ethnicity: Caucasian Duration of Symptoms: Several weeks Location: Los Angeles Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Yes Current Medications: None — Hello everyone, Several weeks ago, I discovered a noticeable bulge just above my navel that was somewhat painful. I managed to push it back in, and since then, it hasn't reappeared. However, the discomfort persisted for several days. I arranged for an abdominal ultrasound, but by the time I attended the appointment, the pain had mostly subsided. Just a couple of days prior to the ultrasound, I began experiencing a sharp, burning sensation on the left side of my abdomen, close to where my kidney is located. This area had been injured two years ago in a motorcycle accident, resulting in a lacerated kidney. Although it healed well, this new pain feels strikingly similar. It might be muscular strain, but it's enough to raise some concern for me. During the ultrasound, the technician seemed to indicate that something might be amiss. She captured several photos of the ultrasound screen on her cell phone, made numerous calls, and even sought permission to scan regions beyond the original scope of the exam. Although I mentioned my kidney discomfort, she informed me that she could not examine that area. To complicate matters, I am unable to discuss the results with a doctor until June due to poor insurance coverage. In the next two weeks, I will be traveling for work and flying across the country for a wedding, so if there is anything concerning, I would prefer to be informed now. If someone here has experience interpreting abdominal ultrasounds and could take a moment to look at the images (I can share the link), I would greatly appreciate it. I fully understand this is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but I am seeking some guidance until I can consult with a physician. Thank you in advance for any support or reassurance you can provide.
Answers (1)
3/27/2025, 3:30:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concern and seek clarity regarding your symptoms and ultrasound results, especially with your history of kidney injury. Here’s a structured overview of your situation and the next steps you can take.
Summary of Main Points
- You have a noticeable bulge above your navel that could indicate a hernia.
- You are experiencing sharp, burning pain on the left side of your abdomen, which may relate to your previous kidney injury.
- Concerns regarding ultrasound findings and the long wait to discuss results with a doctor are valid.
Explanation
A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place, and it can cause discomfort, especially if it becomes incarcerated or strangulated. The pain in your abdomen could also be related to your earlier kidney injury, but without reviewing images, it's hard to ascertain the exact cause.
Since the ultrasound technician indicated that something might be concerning and sought further permissions to scan, it’s prudent to be cautious. However, without concrete results from a physician, it can be challenging to draw any definitive conclusions. Your upcoming travel adds pressure to your situation, making it crucial to address immediately.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Pay close attention to any changes in your pain level or the appearance of new symptoms, especially severe abdominal pain, fever, or changes in urine output.
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Hydration and Rest:
- Ensure you stay well-hydrated, especially before your travel. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that might strain your abdomen further.
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Consider Seeking Urgent Care:
- If your pain escalates to a severe level or if you observe any worsening symptoms, consider visiting an urgent care center. They may perform additional imaging or provide interim advice.
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Track Your Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting what triggers them, their intensity, and any associated signs. This information will be valuable for your doctor once you can consult them.
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Expedited Follow-Up:
- If feasible, try to see if there’s a possibility of a sooner appointment with another healthcare provider or a telehealth service, especially to discuss any critical findings from your ultrasound.
It's understandable to feel anxious, but focusing on these actionable steps can offer you some reassurance and clarity until you can receive a definitive medical opinion. Your health and well-being are important, so take care of yourself during your travels. Let me know if you have more questions or need support with anything specific!
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