Is it okay to wait three days?
A 32-year-old female with a history of one pregnancy via C-section is currently navigating multiple health concerns including Celiac disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and a potential diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Presently, I am preparing for a doctor's visit to discuss the results of various integrative health tests. Notably, one of these tests has revealed significantly elevated free testosterone levels for a woman. Over the past three weeks, my bowel movements have been severely limited, with only two occurring, both of which required the use of strong laxatives. Last week, I ingested an entire bottle of magnesium citrate, yet only managed to pass a minimal amount. Just yesterday, I experienced intense pain localized in my left hip and back, prompting me to undertake most of a colonoscopy preparation routine—four doses of Dulcolax and half a bottle of Miralax mixed with 32 ounces of Gatorade. This did lead to significant movement in my bowels, but today I find myself back to struggling with gas and no proper evacuation. I suspect that I might have an ovarian cyst obstructing my sigmoid colon since, upon examining the area between my pubic bone and left hip, I can feel something unusual that isn't present on the right side. My query is: Can this wait until my scheduled appointment on Friday afternoon, or should I seek immediate care for an ultrasound instead? Thank you in advance for your guidance!
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 8:20:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re facing some distressing symptoms and uncertainties with your health. Given the information you've shared, particularly your history of significant digestive issues and localized pain, it’s understandable to question whether to wait until your appointment on Friday.
Main Points:
- Severe constipation and abdominal pain: These symptoms can indicate a need for more immediate evaluation.
- Possible complications: Conditions like ovarian cysts can cause pain and may require urgent attention, especially with your gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Monitor your symptoms closely: It’s crucial to assess whether your condition is worsening before your appointment.
Explanation:
Your ongoing bowel issues combined with the localized pain in your hip and back are concerning, especially since you’ve had limited success in resolving constipation despite aggressive measures. Elevated testosterone levels and potential PCOS can sometimes contribute to various health challenges, but your acute symptoms demand attention.
Next Steps:
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Seek immediate care: Given your severe symptoms and the potential risk of complications, I recommend contacting a healthcare provider or visiting an urgent care facility right away. It's better to err on the side of caution, especially if an ovarian cyst is affecting your colon.
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Documentation: Prepare to describe your recent symptoms, including your severe pain and the laxative use, as this will help healthcare providers understand your condition.
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Keep an eye on severe symptoms: If you experience worsening pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, or any signs of an emergency (like dizziness or fainting), seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Your health is a priority, and waiting could lead to more complications, so it’s best to get checked out as soon as possible. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!
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