Seated Abdominal Examination Experience
Greetings, I'm a 35-year-old male from the UK weighing 120 kg. Recently, I had an episode of chest pain that led me to the emergency room. While I was sitting in a chair, a physician began examining my chest, which I found to be standard procedure. However, the doctor then applied considerable pressure to my abdomen, extending down towards my waist, all while I remained seated—unusual for me, as I typically undergo this examination while lying flat. After the examination, I was discharged. Nevertheless, a few hours later, I began experiencing a sharp pain in my right abdomen. Should I reach out to my primary care physician regarding this discomfort, or is it likely that this pain will subside on its own in the coming days? Appreciate your guidance!
Answers (1)
9/11/2025, 6:30:56 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about the sharp abdominal pain following your recent chest pain and medical evaluation. While it's possible that this discomfort is a temporary issue, it’s important to be cautious, especially since it's a new pain and you have a background of chest discomfort.
Key Points:
- Sudden abdominal pain after an examination could be due to several factors, possibly related to the examination itself or an unrelated digestive issue.
- Given your previous episode of chest pain, it's prudent to monitor this new symptom closely.
Explanation:
The abdominal examination while seated is indeed less common, as lying down often provides better access for thorough examination and can relax abdominal muscles. The pressure applied during the examination can sometimes lead to temporary discomfort, especially if there was any underlying sensitivity or irritation. However, a sharp pain that appears suddenly afterward should not be overlooked, as it could result from various causes such as muscle strain, gastrointestinal issues, or other concerns.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your abdominal pain. Note if it worsens, if you develop additional symptoms (like fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits), or if it stays consistent or improves.
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Self-Care Measures:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities that might aggravate the pain.
- Stay hydrated and eat a light diet until you feel better.
- Apply a heat pack to the area for comfort, as this can help with muscle relaxation.
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Contact Your Primary Care Physician: Given the combination of your chest pain history and the new abdominal discomfort, it is advisable to reach out to your primary care physician for guidance. They can assess whether further evaluation or testing is necessary, especially if the pain does not improve.
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Seek Immediate Care if Necessary: If you experience any severe symptoms such as unbearable pain, significant swelling, or other alarming symptoms, do not hesitate to seek emergency medical attention.
Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to new and unexplained symptoms, especially in the context of recent health issues. Taking these steps will help ensure your health and peace of mind.
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