OpenHealth Q&A

Concerning New Pain and Swelling

Age: 24 | Gender: Assigned Female at Birth | Height: 5'7" | Weight: 170 lbs Current Medications: Lo Loestrin Fe daily for birth control, Kroger's allergy relief daily, Albuterol inhaler as necessary, Benadryl when needed. Health Conditions: Asthma, seasonal and environmental allergies (multiple food allergies), eczema, PCOS, mild urinary incontinence, L5-S1 bulging disc with dehydration and slight arthropathy, chronic widespread joint and muscle discomfort. I also experience significant intolerance to NSAIDs; they exacerbate my nausea and can lead to stomach pain and dizziness. In severe cases, they cause cramping and nausea so intense that I end up blacking out. My body simply cannot handle them. I want to clarify that I understand the emergency department does not typically address chronic pain issues. I only seek emergency care when my condition escalates to something that feels truly urgent (e.g., if I suddenly lose the ability to walk or put any pressure on my lower half, if I can't pass gas or have a bowel movement for over 72 hours, or if I cannot eat or drink without vomiting for an extended period). I am currently not facing an emergency situation but am looking for guidance regarding this new onset of pain and swelling and whether it should be a cause for concern. Yesterday, I had an appointment with my primary care physician to discuss my ongoing pain and allergies. She referred me to specialists and ordered a new MRI of my back, as my symptoms have escalated since my last ER visit when I experienced a severe back incident. During our discussion of my pain and its progression, along with accompanying symptoms (like nausea, fatigue, weakness, persistent joint clicking or popping, muscle strain from normal activities, swelling, etc.), she inquired if I ever experience numbness in my inner thigh area. I admitted that I do occasionally, primarily in conjunction with my menstrual cycles. Additionally, I noted that during my previous ER visit for my back, I lost the sensation in my inner thighs. Following the MRI during that visit, I was advised to rest and follow up with my primary care doctor. I shared that the numbness tends to affect just one thigh at a time, leaving the other side in significant pain. She expressed concern and emphasized more than once that experiencing saddle anesthesia alongside incontinence constitutes an emergency, instructing me to return to the ER if I face that scenario again. She also provided a sheet detailing emergency symptoms, many of which I regularly endure. Last night, I observed noticeable swelling and discomfort in the lower left side of my abdomen near the hip bone area; it was sensitive to touch and movement, coupled with a cramping sensation. The swelling and pain persist today and feel slightly warm upon contact. Taking deep breaths intensifies the discomfort in that region. I have noticed my left side tends to swell more frequently; for example, my left leg, knee, and ankle often exhibit more swelling than the right. I've mentioned this to multiple doctors since it became commonplace after an ankle injury where I did not receive care for about a week, resulting in a dismissal of my concerns as just needing rest and ice. However, given my PCP's alarming reaction regarding the numbness, I am increasingly anxious about this new swelling. The impacted area on my stomach appears more pronounced than the swelling in my left leg, and the pain is radiating toward the inner hip area. I dread returning to the ER only to be told this situation is not urgent, once again prompting a referral to my doctor. My husband is quite anxious and initially pushed for a trip to the ER last night. Coincidentally, I finished my menstrual period on Sunday, and this discomfort only began last night; I usually experience swelling and numbness in my inner thighs with my periods. My main inquiry is whether I am justified in believing this situation does not warrant an ER visit? I cannot afford the mental, physical, or financial toll of an unnecessary ER trip. I am still mobile, though my usual mobility issues persist. The pain is there, yet it is not numbness. The warmth is minor compared to the right side, and the swelling has not progressed. My urinary incontinence has remained stable as well. Since I first noticed these symptoms, about 12 hours have passed. Is it safe for me to assume this is not a cause for alarm?

Answers (1)

8/21/2025, 8:13:17 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're experiencing new pain and swelling alongside ongoing health challenges, and it's completely understandable that this situation would raise concerns for you. Here’s a structured response to your inquiry regarding the symptoms you're experiencing:

Main Points:

1. New Symptoms Monitoring: The pain and swelling you described near your hip, especially after recent changes in your menstrual cycle, could be linked to various causes, including hormonal fluctuations or irritation from underlying conditions.
2. Emergency Indicators: You are correct to be mindful of certain emergency symptoms, especially with the history of numbness and your doctor’s specific concerns.
3. Next Steps: While you’re not experiencing critical symptoms that require immediate ER attention at the moment, it’s important to monitor your situation closely.

Explanation:

• Swelling and Pain: Swelling in one side of your abdomen, especially if it's accompanied by discomfort and warmth, could indicate inflammation or an irritation in the area. Variations in swelling between sides can occur but should be tracked, especially with your history of leg swelling post-injury.
• Numbness and Saddle Anesthesia: Your awareness of the significant signs (like numbness and incontinence) is crucial. These can indicate pressure on the spinal nerves or complications related to your bulging disc.

Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch over your symptoms. Note any changes in swelling, the intensity of pain, or any new symptoms (like increased numbness, changes in bowel or bladder function).
2. Rest and Avoid Strain: Give your body time to recover. Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain for now.
3. Cold Compress: If it feels comfortable, a cold compress to the area can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
4. Pain Management: Since NSAIDs are not an option, consider alternative over-the-counter pain management strategies (like acetaminophen) after discussing it with a pharmacist if necessary.
5. Follow-Up: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen (fever, increased swelling, escalating pain, numbness, inability to move, etc.), or you have any new concerning symptoms, consider getting in touch with your primary care physician or using a telehealth option to discuss your situation without needing an ER visit.

When to Seek Emergency Care:

• Return to the ER if you experience sudden numbness in your thighs, loss of bowel or bladder control, severe pain that doesn't respond to rest, or any new severe symptoms that concern you.

Remember, you know your body best. Trust your instincts while staying alert to changes. It's always wise to be proactive in reporting concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider.