Persistent Right Abdominal Discomfort for a Week
Age: 31, Female, Height: 5’4”, Weight: 120 lbs. Medical Background: I have a history of inappropriate sinus tachycardia, psoriasis, asthma, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). I am currently taking spironolactone daily at a dosage of 50mg to manage acne. I have no previous abdominal surgeries. For the past week, I have been experiencing intermittent pain in my right abdomen, rating it between 4 to 6 on a pain scale, which occasionally radiates to my right side of the back as well. This discomfort tends to intensify, especially when I am lying down. Additionally, I've been running a mild fever, around 100 degrees, and I've noticed a decreased appetite. Fortunately, I haven't experienced any nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or discomfort during urination. I initially contacted my primary care physician, but they advised me to go to urgent care instead, where I was again told to visit the emergency room. Reluctantly, I complied. In the ER, my blood pressure was noted to be higher than usual, anywhere from the 140s over 90s; typically, I have lower blood pressure readings. An analysis of my urine showed a slight presence of blood, and my urinary pH was on the lower side, at 5. I am approximately two weeks away from my next menstrual period. My complete blood count (CBC) and comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) results were normal, showing no significant anomalies. Following that, the physician recommended a pelvic ultrasound to exclude the possibility of appendicitis, which returned normal results except for a small cyst on my right ovary, deemed incidental by the doctor. As no additional tests were conducted, I was discharged with the pain still ongoing. What steps should I take moving forward?
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 9:30:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
You are experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort with associated symptoms, including a mild fever and changes in appetite. It’s understandable to be concerned, especially given your medical background. The information you provided suggests a few possible considerations, and we can focus on actionable steps to help manage your discomfort while monitoring your symptoms.
Explanation
The pain in your right abdomen, especially if it's intensified while lying down, could relate to several issues, including:
- Ovarian Cysts: You mentioned having a small cyst, which is usually harmless but can sometimes cause pain.
- Infection: The presence of blood in your urine and mild fever might indicate a possible urinary tract infection (UTI) or another type of infection that could be contributing to your symptoms.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Your symptoms could also be linked to gastrointestinal issues not directly observed in the tests you've undergone.
Given that both your pelvic ultrasound and blood tests returned normal findings, it is reassuring, but ongoing pain necessitates tracking what's happening next.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a daily record of your pain levels, any new symptoms, and when the pain intensifies. Jot down any patterns related to food, activity, and position (especially lying down).
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Hydration:
- Ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids, as dehydration can worsen symptoms and affect general well-being.
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Pain Management:
- You might consider over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help manage your pain. Follow dosing instructions as indicated on the package.
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Diet Moderation:
- Lightly manage your diet by opting for easily digestible foods to see if your appetite improves. Avoid heavy, spicy, or fatty foods that could aggravate discomfort.
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Rest and Stress Management:
- Make sure to rest as much as needed, and consider gentle relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga stretches to alleviate tension.
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Follow-Up with Healthcare Provider:
- Since you have ongoing discomfort, follow up with your primary care physician if the pain worsens or persists beyond a week. They may consider further imaging or labs to rule out any other causes, like a gastrointestinal issue or infection.
When to Seek Immediate Care
If you experience severe pain, or if your fever rises significantly, or if you start developing new symptoms like vomiting, significant changes in urination, or severe fatigue, please seek medical attention urgently.
Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and take these steps to manage your symptoms while keeping an open line with your healthcare team. If at any point you feel unsure or your symptoms escalate, don’t hesitate to return to care for a re-evaluation.Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!
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