Seeking a Second Opinion: Could This Be Appendicitis?
Age 26, female, located in the USA, with no significant medications noted. Last Friday, I experienced an unexpected onset of intense pain around my navel. This discomfort persisted for about 5 to 10 minutes but then subsided. However, the following day, I encountered a similar episode that extended from 11 PM until 4 AM, making it challenging to shower and find a comfortable position in bed, though it wasn’t entirely incapacitating. By Sunday, the pain became intermittent throughout the day, consistently worsening with deep breaths or stretches. On Monday, I consulted my primary care physician. She suggested that my symptoms could be related to a urinary tract infection or an ovarian cyst, the latter being an issue I have had in the past. After a urine test and a pelvic examination, the diagnosis revealed that I have bacterial vaginosis, for which antibiotics were prescribed. She advised me that if the pain transitioned from my bellybutton to my lower right abdomen, I should head to the emergency room immediately as it might indicate appendicitis. However, she mentioned that the duration of pain I was experiencing didn’t align with typical appendicitis cases, where the discomfort usually shifts sooner. Fast forward to Saturday, and I awoke to a familiar sharp pain around my navel that later migrated to my lower right abdomen as the day progressed. Now, the pain feels more like a burning sensation, similar to the effects of a lidocaine patch in the affected area. Furthermore, my lower right back is achy, and the pain seems to radiate up towards the bottom of my right ribcage. Is it feasible for appendicitis to present with such prolonged symptoms? Could this indeed be appendicitis? I’m also reluctant to visit the hospital due to the potential medical costs. For context, I have had my gallbladder surgically removed, I’m able to have bowel movements without issues, and I’m not experiencing any additional symptoms such as fever or chills.
Answers (1)
3/30/2025, 4:10:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing concerning abdominal pain that may be indicative of a potential issue, possibly even appendicitis, and you're weighing your options for seeking further evaluation.
Key Points:
- Your symptoms (pain around the navel migrating to the lower right abdomen) could suggest appendicitis, but there are several other possibilities (like cysts or infections).
- The crucial sign to monitor is a persistent shift of pain to the lower right side, which you’ve noted, alongside your burning sensation.
Explanation: Appendicitis typically causes pain that begins near the bellybutton and moves to the lower right abdomen, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and sometimes fever. However, symptoms can vary from person to person. While the timeline of your pain is longer than typical appendicitis cases, it’s important not to dismiss it, especially since you report a change in the location and quality of pain.
Given that your pain has migrated and you are feeling a burning sensation in addition to intermittent pain, this warrants careful attention.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a close eye on the pain's intensity and any new symptoms. Note any changes, especially if the pain worsens dramatically or starts to include fever, nausea, or vomiting.
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Pain Management: If you aren't already, consider over-the-counter pain relief medications (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to help manage pain, but ensure you follow the dosage instructions.
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Emergency Preparedness: If you experience sudden, severe pain, or if the pain in your lower right abdomen becomes severe or consistent, seek emergency medical care immediately, regardless of concerns about costs. The cost of a potential appendicitis untreated can far exceed the cost of a visit to the emergency room.
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Further Evaluation: If symptoms persist or worsen, consider scheduling a follow-up with your primary care physician or an urgent care center. They may recommend imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan) to rule out appendicitis or other conditions given the situational changes in your pain.
While your concerns about costs are valid, prioritizing your health is essential in this situation. Your symptoms warrant careful attention, so don't hesitate to seek care if needed.
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