Concern Over Potential Internal Hemorrhaging Following Blunt Abdominal Impact
My mother, a 53-year-old woman with a height of 5’1”, manages high blood pressure with medication and has a history of undergoing radiation treatment for breast cancer, which also contributes to her bone fragility due to the medications she is prescribed. Recently, she experienced a blow to her upper abdomen from a 6x6 metal container, which was not particularly heavy but still impactful. Along with this, her hand was also struck. Immediately upon impact, she reported intense pain and expressed feelings of discomfort, describing it as if her internal organs were displaced. However, approximately half an hour later, she noted that the pain subsided almost entirely, and as of three and a half hours post-incident, she indicated no abdominal pain remained, though she has experienced mild shortness of breath. She mentioned that taking deep breaths oddly alleviates a sensation of unease she has felt. At the time of the incident, her blood sugar levels were low, and she became quite agitated, reacting vocally to her discomfort, which raises the concern that her heightened emotional state might have exacerbated her condition. While her appetite diminished temporarily, it is gradually returning. She managed to consume a zero-sugar soda and a cookie to stabilize her blood sugar levels. She has also noted a slightly increased heart rate attributed to her earlier discomfort. Although her hand continues to throb, her abdominal pain is absent. An hour and a half post-injury, she urinated, and everything appeared normal. My primary worry rests with the possibility of internal bleeding given her description of feeling as though she had been punched in the stomach. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Answers (1)
8/30/2025, 4:32:04 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm glad you reached out about your mother's situation. Given her recent injury and symptoms, it's understandable to feel concerned, especially with her medical history. While it's hopeful that her abdominal pain has subsided, monitoring for signs of more serious issues, like internal bleeding, is essential.
Key Points:
- Your mother experienced a blunt impact to her abdomen, which can raise concerns about internal bleeding.
- Currently, she has no abdominal pain but has reported mild shortness of breath and an increased heart rate.
- Her history of high blood pressure and previous treatment for breast cancer also heightens the need for vigilance.
Explanation:
Blunt abdominal trauma can cause injuries that might not be immediately apparent, such as bruising or bleeding within the abdominal cavity. The symptoms after a trauma can vary widely, and while pain is a common indicator of injury, the absence of pain does not completely rule out the possibility of an issue like internal bleeding. Shortness of breath could be related to pain or anxiety, especially after such an incident.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a close eye on any new symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, swelling, persistent nausea or vomiting, or changes in her ability to urinate.
- Watch for worsening shortness of breath or any feelings of dizziness or faintness.
-
Pain Management:
- Continue to ensure her comfort. If her hand pain persists or worsens, consider elevating and resting it, applying ice (wrapped in a cloth), and taking over-the-counter pain relief if appropriate.
-
Hydration and Nutrition:
- Encourage her to continue eating lightly and staying hydrated, as low blood sugar can contribute to feelings of unease.
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Follow Up:
- Since she has a history of cancer and is on medications that affect her health, it’s advisable to check in with a healthcare provider sooner rather than later for further evaluation, especially if any concerning symptoms arise.
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Emergency Signs:
- If she experiences severe abdominal pain, increasing shortness of breath, persistent vomiting, or changes in consciousness (like becoming confused or drowsy), seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Providing her with reassurance and a calm environment can also help reduce anxiety following the incident. Please keep me updated on her condition, and feel free to ask if you need more specific advice.
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