Should I Visit the Emergency Room for Cancer Concerns?
I find myself in a tough spot, especially since it’s Sunday and my primary care physician isn't available. I already struggle with health anxiety, but the symptoms I'm experiencing feel quite alarming. I have a nagging concern that this could be serious. I'm seeking advice on whether I should head to the emergency room or if I can wait until I can see a doctor tomorrow. Today marks my daughter’s birthday, and I’d hate to miss it; however, I also don't want to postpone seeking help if there is a possibility that something serious is happening. The mere thought of being unable to be there for her is heartbreaking. I’m 49 years old and have been dealing with some troubling symptoms: - For the past couple of months, I have felt pain on my left side, just beneath the ribs, which extends around to my back and under my arm. My physician seems to think it’s muscular, but it intensified this past Friday. - Over the last month, I’ve lost 10 pounds without any intention to do so; if anything, my diet has worsened. My weight had been quite stable for years, so reaching this number is concerning, as the last time it happened was in 2021 after considerable effort on my part. - I’ve also noticed changes with my bladder, including increased frequency and occasional leakage over the past month. - Despite losing weight, I feel an unusual fullness in my abdomen. - Night sweats have been occurring for the past month. - I have been experiencing constipation with an urgent need to go, only to find my trips to the restroom often yield no results. At times, I experience diarrhea and loose stools, which I initially attributed to the iron supplement I take for low ferritin levels (although other iron measures are normal). - My last menstrual period started on June 8th, but I’ve had some light spotting each day since, which is uncommon for me. - I feel pain in my left shoulder when lifting it beyond a certain height or when holding it in certain positions. ### Medical History and Tests: - Yesterday, I underwent blood tests which indicated an elevated white blood cell count of 12.7 and an elevated absolute neutrophil count of 10.4, while other elements, including platelets, appeared normal with no mention of abnormal cells. - I received a cortisone injection in my shoulder on June 12th, and the nurse practitioner advised that this could elevate my white blood cell count and suggested not to be alarmed. - Recent X-rays of my shoulder, chest, and ribs have all returned clear results over the past few months. - Currently, I am taking a statin and slow-release iron, and I occasionally use omeprazole for heartburn, though I've not required it much recently. I’m not on any other medications.
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 5:30:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned given your symptoms and the timing, especially on your daughter’s birthday. Your symptoms warrant careful consideration, and while you may not need to rush to the emergency room, it’s essential to assess the severity and potential for something serious.
Explanation of Your Symptoms
- Pain: Persistent pain in the left side and back can be related to various issues, including muscular problems or, potentially, organ-related concerns.
- Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss can be a significant indicator of underlying health issues and should be taken seriously.
- Bladder Changes: Increased frequency and leakage might suggest a urinary concern that requires further evaluation.
- Abdominal Fullness: This can indicate digestive or other systemic issues that need attention.
- Night Sweats & Bowel Changes: These could be signs of infections, hormonal changes, or gastrointestinal concerns.
- Menstrual Changes: Unusual spotting coupled with your other symptoms adds to the need for evaluation.
Your recent lab results indicating elevated white blood cells could suggest an infection or inflammation, but it’s important to correlate those findings with your overall clinical picture.
Next Steps
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Monitor Critical Symptoms: If you experience severe abdominal pain, significant loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, or any alarming new symptoms, consider going to the emergency room immediately.
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Symptom Log: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms throughout the day, including their intensity and any new occurrences. This will be helpful for your doctor when you can consult them.
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Hydration & Rest: Ensure you stay hydrated and try to rest, considering today is special for your daughter. Engage in light activities that won’t exacerbate your symptoms.
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Consider an Urgent Care Center: If your symptoms intensify or if you're feeling too anxious about your health as the day progresses, visiting an urgent care facility may provide reassurance and more immediate testing than waiting.
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Plan for Tomorrow: Make an appointment with your primary care physician for an evaluation as soon as possible. Prepare to discuss all your symptoms and concerns in detail.
Your well-being and ability to enjoy today is important. Try to balance celebrating your daughter’s birthday with attentive self-care regarding your health. If you remain concerned later or feel your symptoms worsen, don’t hesitate to seek care sooner rather than later.
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