Persistent Left Flank Pain – Could It Be a Splenic Cyst?
I’m a nearly 29-year-old female experiencing ongoing discomfort in my left flank and upper abdominal area for the last month and a half. Initially, I suspected a urinary tract infection due to symptoms like blood in my urine, frequent urges to go, and burning sensations. After a telehealth consultation, I was prescribed an antibiotic, but the pain persisted alongside the urgency. Consequently, I visited urgent care and received another antibiotic, but tests including urinalysis and culture turned out negative. As the discomfort continued, I finally went to my primary care physician, facing some insurance challenges along the way, and was advised to undergo a renal ultrasound. I had the ultrasound done yesterday, and while the results indicated that my kidneys were healthy, they did reveal a 1.3 cm splenic cyst that appears benign, along with a left ovarian lesion that looks like a simple benign cyst. To be honest, I’m more worried about the splenic cyst given that there are two findings. Meanwhile, my pain is ongoing, and I’m unsure if it’s worsening or if I’m just hyper-aware of it due to my anxiety. I also suffer from anxiety and have recently resumed taking sertraline because of the stress this situation is causing me. I have a follow-up appointment with my primary care doctor this week, and I’m feeling extremely anxious about it. There seems to be limited information regarding splenic cysts and their potential causes, and I’m questioning whether all these issues could be connected. It’s worth noting that I've never had cyclical or ovarian issues in the past. Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated, as this has left me feeling quite overwhelmed.
Answers (1)
7/1/2025, 2:50:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed given your ongoing pain and recent findings. Persistent discomfort can be concerning, but let's focus on what you can do next to address your symptoms and anxiety.
Key Points
- Splenic and Ovarian Findings: A 1.3 cm splenic cyst and the ovarian lesion are typically benign and often require no specific treatment.
- Ongoing Pain Management: Addressing your pain and anxiety is essential while awaiting further evaluation.
- Follow-Up Care: Preparation for your upcoming appointment can help clarify your concerns.
Explanation
- Splenic Cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs on the spleen that usually don’t cause symptoms and are often found incidentally. They generally require no treatment unless they cause issues, which is rare.
- Ovarian Cysts: Simple ovarian cysts are common and often resolve without intervention. They may sometimes cause discomfort depending on their size and the situation.
- Pain and Anxiety Connection: The discomfort you feel could be due to various factors, including anxiety itself, which can sometimes heighten the sensation of pain.
Next Steps
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Pain Management:
- Consider over-the-counter pain relief, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, if you can tolerate them and don’t have contraindications.
- Try applying a heat pad to your left flank area; heat can soothe muscle tension and discomfort.
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Track Your Symptoms:
- Keep a daily log of your pain intensity, triggers, and any additional symptoms. This can help your doctor understand your condition better during your appointment.
-
Focus on Your Anxiety:
- Since you mentioned anxiety, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can help reduce stress and may alleviate some awareness of the pain.
- Discuss any anxiety-related symptoms during your follow-up, seeking reassurance about the benign nature of your findings.
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Prepare for Your Doctor's Appointment:
- Write down your questions and concerns regarding the splenic cyst, the ovarian lesion, and how you’re feeling overall. This preparation can help maximize your time and reduce anxiety.
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Reassess After Follow-Up:
- At your next appointment, clarify the implications of the ultrasound results. Ask if additional imaging or monitoring is suggested and discuss pain management strategies.
- Depending on how you respond to these interventions and what your doctor says, you can decide on the best next steps together.
It's commendable that you're seeking out information and support. Remember, benign cysts are common and, while uncomfortable, are often manageable. If you experience new symptoms like fever, severe pain, or changes in your urination, be sure to seek timely medical advice.
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