Persistent Pain on Lower Left Side
Greetings! I'm reaching out to the Reddit community as I'm feeling quite uncertain about my situation. For the last week, I've been experiencing intense, relentless pain on the lower left side of my abdomen and back. I went to the hospital, where they conducted tests on my blood and urine. The results showed only a slight increase in my white blood cell count, and they detected some blood in my urine. However, they attributed this to my menstrual cycle, even though I had not menstruated in about three weeks, making that explanation seem unlikely. An ultrasound was performed to check for kidney stones, but no issues were found. I was discharged with pain relievers and antibiotics for a urinary tract infection. Three days later, the pain persisted at an unbearable level, prompting me to consult my general practitioner, who then referred me to a medical specialist. They re-evaluated my blood and urine but reported “nothing significant” in the blood. The presence of blood in my urine was noted again. When I inquired about a CT scan, they declined, stating it “wasn’t justified” based on previous tests. Instead, I was sent home with prescriptions for diclofenac and codeine and was advised to “stay active,” as they suggested it might just be a muscular issue or period-related discomfort. It's now been two days and the pain remains unchanged in my back and has intensified in my abdomen. I'm feeling quite lost about the next steps to take. They refuse to perform any imaging tests, and none of the prescribed medications seem effective. Should I wait it out for another week to see if anything changes? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! For context, I’m an 18-year-old female, approximately 5'3" and weighing 60 kg, and I'm generally in good health otherwise.
Answers (1)
8/1/2025, 8:31:08 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing such persistent pain; that must be difficult and frustrating for you. It's important to address this situation carefully, especially since your discomfort has not changed despite previous evaluations and treatment.
Main Points:
- Persistent abdominal and back pain needs thorough evaluation.
- Blood in urine and ongoing symptoms require attention.
- Consider keeping a detailed symptom diary to help in future consultations.
Explanation:
Your symptoms, including intense pain in your lower left abdomen and back, along with blood in your urine, suggest that further investigation may be needed. The presence of blood could indicate various conditions ranging from urinary tract issues to other possible concerns. While muscular pain and menstrual issues can cause discomfort, the intensity and your overall presentation warrant deeper exploration.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, noting when the pain occurs, its intensity (on a scale from 1 to 10), and any factors that alleviate or worsen the pain. This can help both you and your healthcare providers identify patterns.
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Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, especially if there's a concern about urinary issues. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush your system.
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Pain Management: While you're using pain relievers, consider using heat (like a warm compress) on your abdomen or back, which may provide some relief.
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Follow-Up: If your pain intensifies or if you experience new symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in your urination, seek immediate medical attention. Communicate clearly about your persistent symptoms and past evaluations when speaking with healthcare providers.
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Consider a Second Opinion: If you remain unsatisfied with your current care or symptoms continue, seeking a second opinion from another specialist or a pain management clinic may provide additional insights into your condition.
Please remember, it's essential to advocate for your health. If you feel something is not right, don’t hesitate to pursue it further. You're not alone in this, and many avenues for support are available. Don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed.
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