Seeking Answers for Persistent Side Pain
I am a 41-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 180 pounds. My medical history includes a cervical fusion at the C5-6 level, along with various disc issues throughout my spine, myelomalacia, and stenosis. To manage my condition, I'm currently prescribed Baclofen 10mg and Trileptal 150mg, in addition to Wellbutrin XR 300mg, Paxil 10mg, and Ambien 10mg for depression and sleep disorders. Last January, I experienced a severe cold that included significant coughing and some bouts of vomiting. After recovering from the cold, I began noticing pain on my left side, which has persisted. In particular, bending exacerbates the discomfort, and sleeping on my left side proves impossible, as it triggers a sensation of tightness or constriction in my throat along with the pain. The pain is localized just beneath my left rib cage but occasionally radiates to my back or spans across my abdomen. I've also begun to experience a similar aching on the right side, positioned more towards the front, characterized by feelings of bloating and pressure. To investigate these symptoms, I've undergone numerous medical tests including MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, a colonoscopy, and a small bowel series, all aimed at excluding any gastrointestinal issues. My recent visit to the emergency room led to the discovery of a urinary tract infection, which has since been treated and resolved without any lingering symptoms. Moreover, all blood tests have returned normal results. I'm at a loss regarding the next steps and feel overwhelmed trying to decode the cause of this persistent pain. Any guidance or suggestions would be greatly appreciated as I seek clarity on this perplexing situation.
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 4:11:02 PM
OpenHealth AI
Persistent side pain can stem from various causes, and understanding the context of your symptoms is crucial in finding relief. Since you've already undergone extensive testing, we can focus on symptom management and monitoring for changes.
Given your medical history and symptoms, it's understandable to feel overwhelmed. The pain you're experiencing could be related to various factors, including musculoskeletal issues, residual effects from your previous cold, or even nerve-related pain connected to your spine. Since you've ruled out significant gastrointestinal issues through testing, let's focus on some actionable steps you can take to manage your discomfort.
Next Steps:
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Pain Management Techniques:
- Heat Therapy: Use a warm compress or heating pad on the painful areas to help relax tight muscles and ease discomfort. Apply for 15-20 minutes several times a day as needed.
- Gentle Stretching: Light stretches may relieve tension, especially if you have muscle tightness from your previous illness or posture changes. Consider focusing on gentle side bends and torso twists, but stop if they increase pain.
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Activity Modification:
- Adjust Sleep Position: Try sleeping on your back or right side if lying on the left is painful. Use pillows to support your back and keep your spine aligned.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Limit movements that exacerbate the pain, particularly bending or heavy lifting, to give your body a chance to recover.
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Monitoring Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your pain levels, triggers, and any changes in your symptoms. Note activities or foods that may worsen the discomfort. This can help identify patterns and inform future management strategies.
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Consider Stress Management:
- Given your history of anxiety and depression, incorporating relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga could provide additional relief from pain and tension.
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Consultation with a Specialist:
- Since your pain is persistent and multifaceted, consider engaging a pain management specialist or physical therapist who can develop a tailored approach to your symptoms. They can provide specific exercises and treatments suited to your condition.
Conclusion:
Following these steps can help provide some relief while you're in the process of understanding the underlying cause of your pain. It's essential to listen to your body and adjust your activities accordingly. If you notice significant changes in your symptoms or if new symptoms develop, consider adapting your approach and seeking further specialized help. Your well-being is the priority, and there are paths to relief. If you have any questions about these steps or need further clarification, feel free to ask!
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