Experiencing Right Side Abdominal Discomfort, Nausea, and Fatigue for Five Days: High WBC Count and Mild Renal Pelviectasis Identified, What Are My Options? [25F]
Hello everyone, I've been experiencing a significant pain level of about 7/10 located on my right abdomen since Tuesday. Initially, the discomfort was in my lower abdomen, beginning with a dull ache linked to my menstrual cycle; however, as of Saturday, the pain has shifted upwards into the upper right area as well. Along with this, I've been feeling increasingly nauseated. Just yesterday, I went through a rather intense experience with constipation, where I found myself in tears trying to relieve myself after becoming stuck for a while. It was a new experience for me, as I've never had constipation before. I visited a nearby walk-in clinic where they conducted an ultrasound, a urinalysis, and a blood test. The results showed an elevated white blood cell count and indicated "mild right renal pelviectasis." The physician suggested the possibility of having passed a kidney stone or perhaps being affected by a stomach virus. Because of the persistent discomfort, fatigue, and nausea, I've struggled to manage my work throughout the week, even with the help of Tylenol and Aleve. Could anyone share insights on what might be causing these symptoms? Moreover, I am wondering if I should seek a transvaginal ultrasound, visit the emergency room, or undergo any additional imaging, or if it’s better to wait and see. I appreciate any advice! Previous Medical History: I previously underwent surgery for a left ectopic pregnancy (with a salpingectomy) and had an appendectomy in 2022. Ultrasound Results: The measurement of my right kidney is 10 cm, with mild pelviectasis reported. Notably, I do not have a fever. Blood Test Results: - Date: 13 Jul, 2025 - Hemoglobin: 132 g/L (normal: 110 - 150) - White Blood Cell Count: 12.52 X 10^9/L (normal: 3.00 - 10.00) - Neutrophil Count: 9.21 X 10^9/L (normal: 1.50 - 7.00) - Lymphocyte Count: 2.21 X 10^9/L (normal: 1.00 - 3.50) - Monocyte Count: 0.9 X 10^9/L (normal: 0.20 - 0.80) - Additional blood parameters within normal ranges. Urinalysis Results: - Date: 13 Jul, 2025 - Specific Gravity: 1.008 (normal: 1.010 - 1.025) - pH: 7 - All tests for ketones, protein, blood, leukocytes, nitrite, bilirubin returned negative.
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 4:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
You're experiencing a significant amount of discomfort and nausea, which can be quite distressing. The combination of right abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, elevated white blood cell count, and mild renal pelviectasis suggests a need for careful monitoring and possibly further evaluation. Here’s a clear breakdown of your situation and some actionable steps.
Key Points:
- Symptoms and Findings: Your pain levels, along with nausea and fatigue, combined with lab findings (high WBC count and mild renal pelviectasis), raise concerns for potential urinary issues or infections, or complications from your previous surgeries.
- Immediate Concerns: The nature and location of your pain may suggest either a kidney issue (like a stone or infection) or gastrointestinal problems. The recent episode of severe constipation is also significant, as straining during bowel movements can lead to further discomfort.
Explanation:
- White Blood Cell Count: A high WBC count often indicates infection or inflammation. In your case, it could suggest a urinary tract infection or other issue.
- Mild Renal Pelviectasis: This condition indicates swelling in the kidney due to increased pressure in the urinary system, possibly from a blockage (like a stone).
- Constipation: This could also contribute to abdominal pain and nausea, particularly if it leads to bowel obstruction or irritation.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of any changes in your pain or symptoms, such as the intensity of pain, frequency of nausea, or bowel habits.
- Note any new symptoms, such as fever, changes in urine color, or blood in urine.
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Hydration and Diet:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of clear fluids, as staying well-hydrated may help ease kidney discomfort and improve urine flow.
- Dietary Adjustments: Gradually introduce fiber into your diet (if not already consuming it), such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to help manage constipation. However, if you are currently experiencing significant discomfort, a low-fiber diet might be easier until symptoms improve.
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Pain Management:
- Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers as needed, following dosage instructions.
- Consider gentle heat application (like a heating pad) to your abdomen to relieve discomfort.
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Follow-up Care:
- If symptoms persist, worsen, or new symptoms develop (like fever, severe pain, or inability to keep fluids down), consider visiting the emergency room. Given your symptoms, this could represent a more urgent issue requiring immediate evaluation.
- Discuss with your physician the need for additional imaging (like a CT scan or a transvaginal ultrasound) based on how your symptoms progress over the next few days.
By prioritizing hydration, managing your dietary intake, monitoring your symptoms closely, and staying in touch with your healthcare provider, you will be taking effective steps to address your discomfort. Let me know if you have any further questions or concerns!
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