Understanding Lower Right Abdominal Discomfort
For the past three and a half days, I, a 29-year-old male, have been suffering from discomfort in my lower right abdomen. This sensation is specifically centered on the lower right side, notably away from the navel. Initially, the pain peaked around 24 to 48 hours after it began, reaching a severity level of 8 out of 10. The intensity varied depending on my movements and position. It feels reminiscent of a balloon swelling within me. When I lie down on my left side, elevating my right side causes noticeable discomfort. Currently, the pain has transformed to be more position-dependent. If I move my body in a specific manner or rise from a seated position, I can feel the discomfort. I have been taking Advil three times a day; although the pain has subsided somewhat, it remains persistent. After approximately 30 hours of experiencing these symptoms, I sought assistance at a hospital where they conducted blood tests, a urine examination, and a CT scan. The scan revealed no abnormalities, although they detected a small amount of blood in my urine. My white blood cell count was slightly elevated. The medical team advised me to continue with Advil and to hydrate adequately before I was discharged. Despite my efforts to drink more water, I've noticed a reduction in urination frequency. I have been able to pass gas and have experienced normal bowel movements, except for a watery stool incident last night. I’m seeking insights on what this discomfort might signify and how worried I should be considering I have a trip planned this weekend.
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 1:31:00 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort in your lower right abdomen, and I understand how concerning this can be, especially with your travel plans approaching. While you've already received medical evaluation without major findings, it’s important to continue monitoring your symptoms closely.
Main Points:
- Persistent lower right abdominal discomfort can arise from various causes, and while your tests returned normal results, it’s crucial to remain attentive to changes.
- The slight elevation in your white blood cell count and the presence of blood in your urine could suggest inflammation or irritation that might not yet fully reveal itself.
- Hydration and managing the discomfort with Advil have been your steps thus far, which is good.
Explanation:
Discomfort in the lower right abdomen can sometimes be related to gastrointestinal issues, musculoskeletal strain, urinary tract concerns, or other internal conditions. Your pain fluctuating with movement often points to a mechanical cause but could also reflect irritation from nearby organs, especially given the blood in your urine.
Notably, the occasional watery stool may indicate your digestive system is reacting—possibly due to stress or irritation.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your pain levels, any changes (like urination or bowel patterns), and any new symptoms (fever, nausea, etc.) over the next couple of days.
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Hydrate: Continue to focus on hydration. Aim for at least 2-3 liters of water daily, which can help improve urinary function and overall comfort. If you find that you are still having decreased urination despite high fluid intake, consider electrolyte solutions.
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Pain Management: Continue using Advil as you have been, but ensure you're taking it with food to reduce stomach irritation. If pain worsens or doesn’t improve, it is essential to reconsider pain management strategies.
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Activity Modification: Try to avoid movements or activities that trigger the discomfort. Gentle activities like walking may help, but listen to your body.
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Prepare for Travel: Since you have a trip planned, pack necessary medications (including Advil) and any items that might aid your comfort (like heating pads). Be ready to monitor your symptoms, and know where to seek help if you feel unwell while traveling.
Conclusion:
While many causes of your symptoms are manageable, continuing to monitor closely and staying hydrated are crucial. If you notice any worsening of symptoms, such as increased pain, fever, or blood in your stool, prioritize seeking further medical attention. Take care, and let me know if you have further questions or updates on your condition!
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