Colicky Abdominal Pain

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 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'5"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 200
 How old are you?: 67
 How long has this been going on?: A week or two

 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing: Abdominal Pain

 Describe associated symptoms not listed above: Stabbing intermittent abdominal pain lasting 10 to 20 seconds in lower right abdomen just above groin area. Some days only 2 or 3 bouts , other days 8 to 10. Piercing , like a knife being stabbed into you, comes on suddenly with no warning and leaves just as suddenly... Nothing triggers it.could be walking, sitting , sleeping etc. bowel movements are normal. Am diabetic but controlled with Metformin and januvia and gluconorm. Also have fibromyalgia bur this pain much worse than any fibro pain experienced. Feel perfectly normal between episodes .

 What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 : Awaiting dr appointment... Doing nothing.

 Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): Fibromyalgia. Diabetes type 2

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 None of these
 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : None

 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: Januvia, Metformin, gluconorm, atacand +,loses

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: I no longer have a menstrual cycle
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Rarely

Possible conditions causing this
___________________________________________________________

So abdominal pain is notoriously difficult to diagnose without laboratory studies and imaging studies such as a CT Scan. This being said, I can offer a few thoughts.

The type of pain you are experiencing is termed 'colicky' pain- pain that comes and goes suddenly.

To complicate matters abdominal pain is perceived differently than pain in other areas of the body because of the way the nerves to the abdomen are wired.

Based on your symptoms the cause could literally be anything from a hernia to problems with the ovaries to an intestinal problem.

I'm sorry to not be able to help more, but if you click on THIS LINK HERE you might be able to learn a bit about possible and likely causes of your pain.

Thanks for your question.

 

Abdominal Pain and a Trip to Mexico

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I have recently (a week) had a dull ache to the right of my solar plexus, just below the lower rib. I have recently been on holiday to Mexico.Otherwise I am fit and well.

 Gender: Male
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'8"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 231
 How old are you?: 47.5
 How long has this been going on?: A few days

 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Chest Pain

 What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 : I have as yet not taken any action

 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : Ampicillin
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) ::  I am prescribed Allopurinol for uric acid (gout).

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: Now
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Weekly

Possible causes?
______________________________________________________________

Well that's a tough one. Obviously your gall bladder could be a problem as this is the most common cause of pain in the right side of the abdomen under the rib. Without other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or diarrhea it's very hard to guess further than this. If your pain is persistent or recurrent you should see your physician as labs and imaging studies might be needed to assess the cause of this pain. Be well.

Multiple Sclerosis?

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About 4 months ago, I experienced severe pain in my left eye and severe vertigo.  The vertigo eventually went away, but the pain didn't.  I saw an eye doctor and a neuro eye doctor who said that my eye was healthy, no injury.  The neuro eye doc ordered a CAT scan and blood work, as my eye was bulging a bit.  Everything came back normal.  Went to my neurologist who ordered an MRI.  He said it was most likely optic neuritis, and there was a chance it could be MS.  MRI came back normal.  Neurologist then ordered an MRI of my cervical spine to rule out Devic's syndrome.  And also 3 days of consecutive IV steroids to reduce inflammation/pain. I have had no other symptoms of MS. Nor have I lost my vision or have experienced any visual problems.
 However, I've read that a person can have it even though the MRI is clean. I also have fibromyalgia if that is relevant. I just want to know if it's possible to have MS.  Not looking for a diagnosis, just your thoughts.  Also, there are two people (second cousins) who have MS in the family, and my neurologist mentioned that it's possible that MS does run in families.  Thank you.

 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5' 2"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 196
 How old are you?: 37
 How long has this been going on?: More than a month
 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Eye
 Describe associated symptoms not listed above: Severe constant pain in left eye

 What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 : CAT scan - normal
 Blood work on thyroid - normal
 MRI - normal
 (1) IV infusion of steroids - pain went away for a day and a half, only to return
 Will have 3 days of IV steroids in 2 weeks
 MRI of cervical spine ordered but not done yet
 Taking painkillers, motrin, and neurotin
 Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery : fibromyalgia
 intractable vertigo
 migraines
 TMJ surgery at 15
 Ankle surgery in 2011
 Tonsils out at 7
 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 Cancer

 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : Emaycin, penicillin and derivatives, flagyl
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: Elavil 75mg 1x/day
 Reglan 5mg 2x/day
 Omeprozole 20mg 2x/day
 Birth control
 Allegra 180 1x/day
 Allergy injections 1x/month
 Neurotin 1x/day
 Motrin 800mg 3x/day
 Zoloft 100mg 1x/day
 Xanaz .25mg as needed
 Maxalt 10mg as needed
 Vitamin D
 When was your last menstrual cycle?: 1 week ago
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Never
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Good gracious! I'm sorry you have so many problems (and so many medicines to take).

I do not think you have MS for two reasons. First of all, your MRI, the diagnostic test of choice, was normal. But perhaps even more importantly, you saw an Ophthalmologist who did a direct visualization of your optic nerve. You did NOT have optic neuritis if an eye doctor did not see bulging of the optic disc on exam. Period. I am not sure what this was or if you will ever know, but it is not MS.

Be Well

Acute Mid-Abdominal Pain

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I have felt nauseous all day, and about 30 minutes ago I had an intense radiating pain just above my solar plexus and through to the corresponding area of my back. I felt like a couldn't breathe deeply, but I had no trouble breathing. I got dizzy and started to black out. The pain lasted for about 3-5 minutes then slowly went away.  This started today but the drop down box wouldn't recognize that answer.

 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5' 6"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 140
 How old are you?: 45
 How long has this been going on?: A few days

 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Abdominal Pain
 Difficulty Breathing
 Vomiting
 Nausea
 Musculoskeletal Pain

 What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 : Laid down.

 Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): D&C 2005, 2 C-sections 2006, 2012

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 Hypertension
 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : None
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: Chlorthalid 25mg, Wellbutrin 300xl, vitamin D, Motrin
 When was your last menstrual cycle?: Now
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Never

 What could the pain be from?
______________________________________________

So sorry this question sat for a while. For the benefit of my readers more than you at this point any pain such as you experienced with nausea and near-syncope is not something to ignore or try to sleuth-out on the internet. It is a reason to go directly to the ER.

Many things could cause this; ulcer disease, pancreatitis, Aortic dissection, blood clot in the lung... but first and foremost any pain in or near the chest of the nature you have described and with your history of hypertension should be assumed to be heart related... a heart attack, until proven otherwise. This remains true even if the pain resolves as this pain could be a harbinger of a heart attack.

Again, sorry for the delay in answering, if you are still having this problem please get in with your physician as soon as you possibly can, and if the pain recurs go to the ER.

Be Well

Gall Bladder Pain Without a Gall-Bladder

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I have been experiencing excruciating abdominal pain. it starts usually at the very bottom of my sternum closer to the right side of my body & as it gets more intense it radiates to my ribs & i always break out into a pouring sweat & get either really pale or my face gets really red & I can barely breath but if I calm down (which I've managed to do a little better) I can ease the pain a tiny bit by breathing in through my nose & outta my mouth. The episodes last less than an hour most of the time & since April of 2009 when the first one happened I've had them at least once a month sosometimes more. it started about 4 days after having my gallbladder removed (lapriscopic) I had no gall stones at all just after doing all proper testing it showed that my gallbladder only 12% function. please help no Dr can tell me what it is.

 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'6"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 145
 How old are you?: 32
 How long has this been going on?: More than a year
 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Abdominal Pain
 Chest Pain
 Nausea
 Bruising or Bleeding

 Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery:
 GERD
 gall bladder removal
 Tubal ligation

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 Cardiac Disease
 History of Back Pain
 Hypertension

 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : NSAIDS
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: Hydrocodone 5/325
 Santa 150mg

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: 3 weeks ago
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: Yes
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Rarely

 1. Why do I have this severe pain after gall bladder removal?
 2. How to fix it?
 3. What will reduce pain while experiencing an episode of severe pain?
 May we send you a satisfaction survey after your question is answered? It takes a minut to fill out.: Yes

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You have a difficult problem. No doubt your gall bladder needed to be removed. However, you now continue to have symptoms that mimic the initial problem, and this is called 'post-cholecystectomy syndrome'. Unfortunately this can be difficult to treat and is a 'diagnosis of exclusion', meaning, all other possible causes need to be ruled out. HERE IS A GOOD REFERENCE FOR YOU. My advice is to see a Gastroenterologist, not a surgeon, and if you have done this and are dissatisfied get a second opinion. Unfortunately diagnosing your problem will be complicated, and is beyond what we can do here, but my best guess is that you do have post-cholecystectomy syndrome, and seeing a good Gastroenterologist is, unfortunately, the best advice I can give you.

Be Well

Knees or Something Else?

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I participated in a 5K run (1st in 10 years.) I am out of shape, 20 lbs over weight and stopped running some time ago due to arthritis in my knees that is worse due to the extra weight.  I had been walking fairly regularly but only a mile or two and I bowl 2x per week.

I used a combo of walk/jog for the 5K and finished in 47 minutes.  I did have some breathing pain during the race but figured, yep I am out of shape and this is normal. Since my knees felt pretty good, I would slow to walk to ease up the pain, then jog.  If it were not a race, I would have walked more or quit early.  I probably ignored warnings since my primary stopper (my knees) were not the problem.

After the 5K I am experiencing pain in my solar plexus and it is agravated when I eat.  Feels like acid reflux (or what I imagine that would feel like not having it before.)

Generally I am pretty healthy and very low stress.

Not sure if I pulled something and should give this a few more days to calm down, or if I should speak to a doctor as its likely unrelated.
 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'3"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 140
 How old are you?: 50
 How long has this been going on?: A few days
 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Abdominal Pain
 Describe associated symptoms not listed above: No pain when I take a deep breath or stretch or twist in various directions.

No pain if a probe/press on my solar plexus area, none in my stomach.  Almost feels slightly sore, but I have always had a high tollerance for pain.

I am also premenopausal, have just started to get hot flashes and delays with my cycle. Tried eliminating foods that might be a cause.  High fat, dairy, most breads.

Do take ibuprophen for my knees, but scaled back the dose.  Typically if my knees are bad, will take 600-800 miligrams before activity or in the evening.

Took 800 yesterday after walking all day (went to a golf tournament).  Then only 600 before bowling today.

 Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): Diagnosed with arthritis in my knees at 21.  Doctor recommended ibuprophen as needed and mostly managable when I am slim.  Gained 15-20 lbs after 40 that I am having trouble loosing.  At 40 Dr. recommended I loose 15 lbs and strengthen my leg muscles.

 No surgery except TMJ at 21 to reconnect ligaments in both sides of my jaw.
 No family history of significance

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: 4 weeks ago
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Occasionally

Is it possible I totally overdid it going way beyond my comfort level on excercise and could have pulled some internal muscle?

Could this be related to being premenopausal?  Have not yet seen a Dr on that as its managable.

Could I be developing gluten intollerance/acid reflux having rarely had any stomach issues in the past?
_________________________________________________________

I'm sorry we are late in getting to this.

First of all, it is perfectly possible that your symptoms are related to GI upset either from reflux, ulcers, or these in combination witht the ibuprofen.

This being said, at age 50 you are getting to the age where heart disease DOES become a risk for women. If you have not done so already, then getting your heart checked out would be a very good idea.

From what you are telling me a cardiac cause for your discomfort is unlikely, HOWEVER, it IS possible to have sensations of pain in the abdomen which are actually related to heart disease.

A simple treadmill test would be an easy thing for you to do and probably all that would be needed to rule out a cardiac cause.

At the same time your doctor might start you on an acid blocking medicine which might give you some relief.

Ultimately, you might need to stop using the ibuprofen as it can cause these symptoms. Tyelenol would be better for your stomach while this is being worked out.

If you like you may ask questions in the comment section.

Thanks for your question and be well.
 

Multiple Medical Problems and Chest Pain

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Did 100 reps with 30 lbs 2 days ago (not sure if its important or not) Have had a sinus infection for almost 3 wks (dr appt in 2 days) I have back problems and have t4 and flexeril for it. I took them last night in hopes of sleeping better since sinus has been keeping me awake and restless sleeps. When meds kicked in, I got bad chest pains that kept me up all night and had a hard time breathing for 1/2 night. Today it's still sore and sensitive. Area is solar plex/between breasts.. Had this before and dr said was acid reflux. If so why does it happen only occasionally (once every 2 or 3 mos) and cause such pain for 24 hrs ?? I am overweight, had pituitary tumor, have hypothyroidism, celiac (found out in jan), low magnesium. I have had 3 kids as well.

 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'3
 What is your weight in pounds?: 186
 How old are you?: 31
 How long has this been going on?: More than a year

 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Abdominal Pain
 Difficulty Breathing
 Chest Pain

 Describe associated symptoms not listed above: The difficulty breathing part felt like someone was sitting on my chest.. I know it wasn't the side effect of the meds as I have been on them for a while

What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 : I was given reflux meds for a couple wks. That seemed to help at that time as I was getting the pains repeatedly. But now 3 mos later it's back.

Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): I have a pinched nerve in my lower back as well as arthritis. I can't take anti inflammatories as they caused major weight gain and stomach probs..  I have hypothyroidism, celiac disease, and low magnesium (taking vitamins)Had a pituitary tumor but it seems to be under control, not on meds for it anymore. I have had breast reduction 17 yrs old, surgery on my knee after skiing accident (15yrs), surgery on my armpit as breast tissue left  grew (28yrs),tonsils removed (16yrs), adnoid removed (8yrs)

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 Asthma / Lung Problems
 Cancer

Please list any medication allergies that you have : : Penicillin - throat swells
Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: Cytomel 1/3.5 & synthroid 50mcg compounded in one pill .. I take 3.. I also take Tylenol 4 and Flexeril10 mg. I also take daily vitamins, including vitamin b 100 complex, kelp, omega 3-6-9, vitamin c 1000mg, digestive enzymes, vitamin d 25 mcg, magnesium glycinate 600 mg ..and occasionally iron 300mg ( was deficient last yr)

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: 3 weeks ago
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: Yes
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Occasionally

The pain causes, what other things it could be ?
 ______________________________________________________

Ma'am, with respect, you have so many issues going on at once here I can't really tie this up nicely. The fact is that your symptoms could be coming from reflux, could be from gallstones, or it could be your heart. There are other possibilites, but these three are top of the list.

The point I guess I would make with you is that in order to GET the diagnosis more work needs to be done.

For instance, withn the chronicity of this, reflux is a likely cause. But you need to be checked for ulcers and you may need to have an upper endoscopy (camera exam of inside of esophagus and stomach).

You are also at the right age for gallstone disease. An ultrasound of the gall bladder is probably needed in your case.

Finally, even though the odds are against this being your heart, it is certainly worth looking at your heart with an EKG and, perhaps, a stress test.

Your other medical problems DO muddy the waters, so perhaps the best advice I could give would be to make sure your doctor is comfortable AND competent to manage a complicated medical patient such as yourself.

There are many unanswered questions in your case. I wish I could help more, but there is much that is yet to be done.

If you have any questions please do ask them below in the comments section.

Beyond Our Scope

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I have had lower abdominal pain since I was 15.  The intensity of it fluctuates.  During periods of great stress, it is severe and constant.  I also have Complex PTSD, Fibromyalgia, Diabetes Type 2, Migraines, and mild osteoarthritis in my knees. I have tried many food allergy, food sensitivity diets over the years.  I have learned and practiced many relaxation exercises. I do not feel like I have control over this at least 50% of the time.  Sometimes I can eat anything I want and have no ill effedts.  Other times I eat as well as is possible...and still have great pain, tension, bloating, fluctuating bowel movements. I have been told that I have IBS.   I have tried to accept this.

I have recently read a new book on women's stomach health and it has led me to ask if there is a missing diagnosis. I am female, 55 years old, in full menopause for 3 years, 5'4", 200 lbs.   From age 15 to 50 had various forms of ED-NOS...mostly anorexia binge-purge type.  I used all forms of purging. (over exercise, vomiting, enemas, laxatives.) Any input would be appreciated.
 I know that my case is "complex"  so maybe there are no clear answers.  More importantly I am looking for help on how to reduce the flare-ups once they have begun. Thank you.

 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'4"
 What is your weight in pounds?: 200
 How old are you?: 55
 How long has this been going on?: More than a year

 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Abdominal Pain
 Diarrhea
 Genitourinary
 Musculoskeletal Pain
 Neurological
 Psychiatric

Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): polyps on bladder twice, cystoscopies 4 times. tonsils out at 4 years of age.

Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 Diabetes
 Psychiatric Disorders

Please list any medication allergies that you have : : mould and sulpha based antibiotics...cause very severe gastrointestinal upset and headaches.

 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: seriquel 400 mg
 Nexium 40 mg
 atenolol 50 mg
 zanaflex 8 mg
 Lyrica 225 mg
 Metformin

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: I no longer have a menstrual cycle
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Never

 How can I lessen the intensity of "IBS" flareups when they occur?
 Do my symptoms really match up with IBS?   Is it possible that there is another condition happenning that is not yet diagnosed?
 Would I maybe also have Endometriosis?
_______________________________________________________

First of all let me give you some good references.

THIS is good on Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

THIS is good on Endometriosis.

Past this, and I say this with kindness, your complicated medical history makes it impossible, without the aid of testing and examination, to try and untangle your problems. Your issues simply do not lend themselves to an online discussion. Again, my apologies.

 

Chronic Bacterial Vaginosis

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I have been diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis.I have taken the medication prescribed which was flagyl. Not only did I take it once but twice. It has not worked both times. They increased the second dosage and still had not worked. I read if you take folic acid that it will work. However, I have been taking this as well and still no luck. I was wondering could there be an underlying cause for this not clearing up.

 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'3
 What is your weight in pounds?: 250
 How old are you?: 36
 How long has this been going on?: More than a month

 Describe associated symptoms not listed above: just a discharge that is a cloudy color . The doc said it is chronic b.v.

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... : Diabetes

 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: folic acid 800 mcg.once aday

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: 4 weeks ago
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Never

___________________________________________

THIS LINK HERE MAY BE OF SOME HELP TO YOU.

I wish I had more information for you but as you can see from the link above, this CAN become a chronid problem.

If you are not currently under the care of a Gynecologist I would highly recommend this.

Also, I see that you have a history of diabetes in your family, and I also see that you are overweight.

If you are pre-diabetic or 'borderline' diabetic this could be contributing to this problem.

While the BV is the issue of concern for you here, with your family history and your current weight you are at high risk for developing TYPE 2 DIABETES.

It is quite possible that if you could get close to your ideal weight, THIS IS HELPFUL, that you might find that your BV problem clears up, and that you would avoid becoming diabetic.

Again, I'm sorry that I don't have a better answer for you. If you have comments or questions please make them in the box below.

PCOS and Type 2 DM

I AGREE TO USE MD STAT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, THAT NO DOCTOR PATIENT RELATIONSHIP IS FORMED BY MY PARTICIPATION IN THIS EXCHANGE, AND I UNDERSTAND THAT MY QUESTION AND ANSWER(S) WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEBSITE AND WILL BE VIEWABLE BY VISITORS TO THE SITE.: Yes, I agree.

 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'8
 What is your weight in pounds?: 181
 How old are you?: 15
 How long has this been going on?: More than a year

 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Fever
 Abdominal Pain

 Describe associated symptoms not listed above: tiredness most of the time.

What have you done so far to remedy this condition?

I am doing this fro my 15 yr old daughter. she has been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and PCOS. However, my concern is the everyday abdominal pain with headaches and tiredness. Also frequent low grade fevers ranging from 99-100. She has only had an ultra sound for the stomace and it showed that she was constipated. She is also anemic, and they took her off of her iron pills. She has had h-pylori tests done , amalyse and other tests as well.

 No surgeries.

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... : Diabetes
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: she takes metformin xlr. was on reg metformin but caused stomach problems on top of the stomach problems she already has.
What could possibly causing this. What can reduce the pain and sleepiness. What other tests could be done. And does she need to be referred to a specialist?

_____________________________________________________________

First of all, if all she has had is an abdominal ultrasound that showed 'constipation', then it did not acheive the results intended, which were to visualize her ovaries. The fact that they said it showed 'constipation' means that the study was sub-optimal.

Unfortunately, PCOS is not in MY particular area of expertise.My gut reaction was that PCOS is poorly understood, and about this I was correct. I did not remember that Type 2 DM was associated with this disorder.

In fact, what I have linked HERE is a very good reference for you to print out and have at hand.

From what you are telling me she is getting a slow workup for her issues. With the H pylori esting and the focus on the stomach and abdomen they are looking for a source of blood loss which could cause her anemia. It sounds as if they have not found it yet.

As you can see from the link, increased or abnormal uterine bleeding uheavy menstrual cycles) can go with this syndrome and may be the source of the anemia. But if they took her off iron pills they are thinking that this is NOT an anemia based on iron deficiency... there ARE other causes.

I do not have any magic answers to her low grade fever, tiredness, and headaches, but would say the following.

If her thyroid function has not been checked it needs to be.

If she does not have a primary care manager that is WELL versed in treating PCOS then she either needs an endocrinologist or a family practitioaer with a concentration endocrine disorders.

The headaches may or may not be related to her PCOS, and doctors always look for a 'unifying diagnosis'... a single diagnosis that explains all symtoms. That being said, the headaches may need an evaluation by a neurologist.

And finally, as hard as this will be for her, she absolutely needs to become VERY aggressive in managing her weight and in maintaining her health. The habits she forms now will either see her thgough a long and healthy life or will set her up for failure.
 
As you can see from the reference, people with PCOS often develop 'metabolic syndrome', as of now a poorly understood cluster of medical problems (including DM) that make heart disease and heart attack a big risk, not now, and not in ten years, but as your daughter gets into her late thirties and onwwards.  
 
It is not clear from your question, but it would seem that things are moving along slowly. If you are not satisfied with the progress so far, do not hesitate to get a second opiniion. A pediatric endocrinologist might be a good place to go for a second opinion.
 
I hope this helps some. Again, this problem is complicated and poorly understood at present. Your daughter is being treated reasonably, but there are unanswered questions. I hope you will drop back by in the comment section and update us on her progress. The comment section is also where you can ask questions about this answer.
 
Thank you and good luck .

 

A 'Knot' Which Causes Nausea

I AGREE TO USE MD STAT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, THAT NO DOCTOR PATIENT RELATIONSHIP IS FORMED BY MY PARTICIPATION IN THIS EXCHANGE, AND I UNDERSTAND THAT MY QUESTION AND ANSWER(S) WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEBSITE AND WILL BE VIEWABLE BY VISITORS TO THE SITE.: Yes, I agree.


 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 6'0
 What is your weight in pounds?: 230
 How old are you?: 40
 How long has this been going on?: A week or two
 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing:
 Chest Pain
 Nausea

My husband has been complaining of a "knot" in his chest, a hair to the right of his xiphoid process. It hurts to push on it and when there's pressure applied it makes him VERY nauseous! He's a very tough man. He's not one to complain of pain at all which worries me enough to come here to you. We've been to the Dr. and she gave him clairatin and omeprazole. Its NOT indigestion! He was in the military so its a VA hospital. His Dr. ordered an ultrasound but haven't gotten a call back yet. Its been two three days. I used to be a paramedic and my first "field impression" is gallbladder. He's miserable! Unlike him! He's also exhausted everyday. Fatigued. Headaches daily.

 What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 : Waiting on ultrasound appoint.


 Only meds he's on is Clairatin and Omeprazole.
 Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery: No medical problems. Has only had two surgeries. One for wisdom teeth six years ago. Before that three screws in his patella after falling and shattering it. Over all excellent health. Low BP, good heart rate, typical high cholesterol.

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 Cancer
 Cardiac Disease
 Diabetes
 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : Nka
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: Clairatin 10mg
 Omeprazole 40mg

Periodic tylenol and aleve for headaches and knee pain.
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: Yes
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: Yes
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Occasionally

I guess I just need to know if I need to FORCE him to the ER because he doesn't want to go. I'm also planning to pressure the VA to get him in sooner.

Gallbladder? Muscular?
____________________________________________________________

So hard to say without an exam. Would be nearly impossible to feel the gallbladder even if it was enlarged or inflamed. I have a very good friend who is a docot for the VA and I understand the delays. It's now up to one year for a hip replacement.

That being said I think the more important thing to realize is that just with what you have told me I do not thing delay is an appropriate thing in your husband's case. He needs that ultrasound but he needs a chest Xray and an EKG and yesterday. He needs a provider to examine him and these days the only place to get answers to complex medical questions in a timely fashion is in the ER.

Also, it's unclear to me from your question above if you are referring to yourself or your husband in many of the questions.

If his pain worsens, if he develops shortness of breath, fever, or vomiting you must get him to the ER. I can't put together this problem very well though I do agree that the Gall Bladder is suspect.

If you sish to clarify your responses or ask further questions in the comment section please feel free to do so.
 

Chicken vs Eye

I AGREE TO USE MD STAT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, THAT NO DOCTOR PATIENT RELATIONSHIP IS FORMED BY MY PARTICIPATION IN THIS EXCHANGE, AND I UNDERSTAND THAT MY QUESTION AND ANSWER(S) WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEBSITE AND WILL BE VIEWABLE BY VISITORS TO THE SITE.: Yes, I agree.


I was sitting outside when one of my chickens jumped up on my lap looking for a treat. I did not have a treat to give her. I was looking at her and she was looking at me. She then poked me in my left eye. Chickens are FAST and their strong with their pokes and they are not known for having clean beaks. My whole eye is bloodshot and there was a small pool of blood gathered at the bottom of my eye. I flushed it with saline solution. I can see and it doesn't appear that my eyeball itself is bleeding (except for the fact it is totally red and bloodshot). It doesn't seem to have changed my vision. It's not bleeding anymore though I am not sure where the blood came from as I can't seem to find where the actual wound is. My eye feels like there is something in it but like I said, I can't find the actual wound. It's not really painful but only feels like there is something in my eye.

My question is, is cleaning it with saline solution a good antiseptic? I flushed it for a good 3 minutes (I'm soaked as the solution ran down my face, neck, etc.) What are signs of infection in case I need to be seen?

 Gender: Female
 How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5"3
 What is your weight in pounds?: 125
 How old are you?: 53
 How long has this been going on?: A few days
 Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing: Eye

 What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here.
 Cleaned it with saline solution.

 Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): High blood pressure.

 Check all conditions present in your immediate family... :
 Cardiac Disease
 Hypertension
 Please list any medication allergies that you have : : none.
 Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: Atenolol (50 mg)
 Hydrochlorothiazide (50 mg)

 When was your last menstrual cycle?: I no longer have a menstrual cycle
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
 Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
 Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Rarely

How likely is an infection to my eye despite cleaning it with saline solution? Any other home remedies I should consider? So I am looking for something I should keep a lookout for in case I do need to be seen.

This all took place about an hour or so ago. I stated a "few days" above as your system would not allow me to enter "started today." It repeatedly gave me an error message that I need to enter a value. So while I stated "a few days," that is incorrect. Thanks!
_____________________________________________________

First of all, a prize to you for asking the most unique question to date on our little site here.

Secondly, you are correct to be concerned, and, correct as well that a doctor's FIRST question will be 'how is your vision', and, yours, so far, is unaffected.

Thirdly, and this may go to four, five, six etc... There is no way at this point to prevent infection as the peck of the beak either penetrated deep into or even through the sclera OR it only scratched the sclera and cornea.

I have no doubt that a chicken's beak contains all manner of nasty bacteria, and, since your eye is red and painful you MUST get seen by an eye doctor soon. Visual injuries are, thankfuly, rare, but you have one that could be serious.

As I say above it IS good that your vision is not affected, but there is simply no way to know at this point without a good exam if bacteria have been deposited deep enough into the orbit to cause infection.

IF they have then you will need AT LEAST prescription antibiotic eye drops. You also need a tetatnus shot if you have not had one in the last five to ten years.

Finally, you may well need pain control even if this is simply an abraasion. Abrasions can cause spasm of the ciliary muscle. This is VERY painful and a few days of eye dilation and mild pain medicines could to wonders.

Please do update us on this very unique injury!

Be well.

Post-Opertive Infection With Hardware

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Hi i had surgery on a heel fracture 2 stainless pins inserted i had 2 cast changes they were on a little over 1 month each. finally cast was off my parents and friends questioned the color of my foot they said it didn't look right but i said doc gave it the ok.the next check up the doctor said now infected. gave me prescription 2 antibioitics 1 cream. my next appointment was 1 week later skin graph doc. at app. doc looked at wound said admit yourself in hosp now. on i.v.s 5 days now on wound vac. can infections become that critical in 1 week. when the cast was 1st off. my heel was extremely painful to touch and yellowish . now i can touch my heel after iv.s it seems to me the infection was overlooked ?

Gender: Male
How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5 10
What is your weight in pounds?: 148
How old are you?: 52
How long has this been going on?: More than a month

Describe associated symptoms not listed above: had tingling feeling in heel while cast were on i was told bone growing

What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here. Wound vac.

Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): need maybe 2 more operations

Please list any medication allergies that you have : : none

Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: 2 antibiotics per day doxycycline hyclate 100mg

When was your last menstrual cycle?: Now
Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: Yes
Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Rarely

What can i do if the infection was overlooked some reason i seem to be backpedaling on getting better.

________________________________________

I wish I could give you a definite answer but I can't because your question calls for speculation... guessing on my part. The fact is that you broke your calcaneus. This is from a high energy injury, in other words, an injury with lots of force transmitted to your foot. The repair of this kind of injury is very difficult to start with. The fact is that the surgery you had to repair your broken heel carried with it a known risk of infection to start with. And if your original injury was bad enough to break the skin (an 'open' fracture) then the chance of infection would be even higher. 

But let's assume that there was no infection introduced during your injury or the repair. It is possible that a small break in the skin near the surgical site introduced bacteria deep into the wound. 

The fact that you have metal screws in your foot makes the infection MUCH worse, because now the screws probably have to come out. 

To answer your question about the infection being 'overlooked', it is not that simple. There is no test that tells if there is infection or not. As you learned, a wound infection is diagnosed by physical exam. Lab testing can help, and bone scans and the like are often used to tell if the bone itself is infected, but there is no way to say if it was overlooked. 

If you wish to consult a medical malpractice attorney they can probably answer this better than I can.

Unfortunately, not even your doctors know right now how long this will take to clear and how many operations you might need (though I see you think there are two surgeries upcoming). You had a bad injury that shattered your calcaneus bone. Even without the infection your chance of getting back to near-normal was very low and you would likely have had some pain and lack of ability to fully use your foot for the rest of your life. 

With the infection the end results are unknown at this point. 

I'm not sure if I have answered your question, so if I have not, please respond in the comment section. Good luck. 

Acute on Chronic Abdominal Pain

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6 months ago my 3 yr old landed a perfect knee to my solar plexus causing intense pain and vomiting. A month later he did it again. I am now very sensitive there. Last week while dusting myself off a lite pat to the area created considerable discomfort for the rest of the week. Saw family doc on Thursday. They feel it acid reflux. I didn't have discomfort until I was hit. Lucky me, my son landed another one last nite while giving me a hug. I'm able to flex 6 pack abs and pecs, do push ups everything as normal. I can take deep and shallow breaths normally. Normal appetite. Normal digestion and movements. Normal sleep. The problem is a constant mild to  dull radiating pain in my solar plexus area. It almost feels like a hollowness in the center of my chest behind the muscles and sternum. Sounds a little strange but not sure how to describe.


Gender: Male
How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5 10
What is your weight in pounds?: 175
How old are you?: 39
How long has this been going on?: A week or two
Check all symptoms you are currently experiencing: Chest Pain
What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here. Blood work for Gall Bladder and Pancreas. Results normal.

Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery: Total Hip Replacement
Appendectomy

Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: Yes
Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Daily

HOW QUICKLY DO YOU NEED THIS TO BE ANSWERED?: As soon as possible.

Can you bruise the solar plexus?
What is the best method of diagnosis for a non muscular skeletal injury?
What are possible treatments?
__________________________________________________


Sir, 
This is a puzzling case indeed. 

Can you bruise in the solar plexus? Well, you can get an abdominal wall bruise, but six months ago? If this were the cause then you should be well by now.

The next question is the real money question... What is the best method of diagnosis? The answer is a contrasted CT Scan, perhaps an MRI of your abdomen and pelvis. 

I think you should have this as soon as possible. I think your logic is sound in thinking back to the incident with your three year old, but from a doctor's perspective, I am concerned about your story. 

The nature of the pain concerns me. The chronicity of the pain concerns me. In short, being ER trained, I think automatically of the worst possible cause, and this is, of course, cancer. Do I think you have it? No, but it IS on the list. As long as it is 'on the list' it's time to take it off the list as quickly as possible. This requires imaging studies as mentioned above.

You can not rule out disease of the pancreas or gall bladder with blood tests, though the results can suggest disease. It's time for you to get back with your family doctor and let him know that your pain has been present for six months. And it's time to request either a CT scan of your abdomen or pelvis, OR, referral to a GI specialist or surgeon. 

If you have questions about my answer please leave them in the comment section. 

Be well

Sudden, Painful, Abdominal Wall Bulge

I AGREE TO USE MD STAT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, THAT NO DOCTOR PATIENT RELATIONSHIP IS FORMED BY MY PARTICIPATION IN THIS EXCHANGE, AND I UNDERSTAND THAT MY QUESTION AND ANSWER(S) WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEBSITE AND WILL BE VIEWABLE BY VISITORS TO THE SITE.: Yes, I agree.

I was practicing Yoga today, lifting myself up in a pose that uses arms, and lifts the legs up, so there is a lot of pressure in the abdominal muscles, suddenly I felt a sharp pain 2 centimeters to the right side, and one centimeter down of my solar plexus, I had to stop the pose, and touched what it felt like a bump, maybe a hernia, it was really painful, I put some pressure and it went down, but I still feel a little pain, and I'm concerned as to what that could be. I had to put a few days ago because the site wouldn't let me leave it at started today, but this, started today.

Gender: Female
How tall are you (feet and inches)?: 5'7
What is your weight in pounds?: 123
How old are you?: 43
How long has this been going on?: A few days

Describe associated symptoms not listed above: I had a really bad cold, was bedridden for almost 13 days, first 3 days I had a fever and chills, I was so tired, I got up on day 13, I'm still not strong enough, this was 4 days ago when I got up, I feel as though my body aches, which it does because I also teach Yoga and practice daily. I haven't been eating as much as I usually do, I'm a raw vegan, I'm very healthy, but I have some stress going on in my life now so I haven't been very diligent or disciplined when it comes to eating.

What have you done so far to remedy this condition? Please include tests and relevant studies here. Just happened today, pushed the bulge down.

Please list any chronic medical problems and also list any prior surgery (lacerations don't count!): I've had 2 myomectomies, 2 laparotomies to remove uterine fibroids, and a cyst in the right ovary. I've also torn L4 and L5 a year and a half ago.

Please list any medication allergies that you have : : None that i know.

Please list any medications you are currently taking (and dosage if known) :: I started taking Opti Gyn Formula from Eclectic Institute. I have uterine fibroids and don't want to get surgery yet again, besides they pressure my bladder so I cannot get over 4 hours of uninterrupted sleep, sometimes even less than that.

When was your last menstrual cycle?: 2 weeks ago
Are you currently using or do you have a history of tobacco use?: No
Are you currently using or do you have a history of illegal drug use?: No
Please describe your alcohol consumption :: Never

I'd like to know what this is and the steps I should take. I'd like to know whether I can shrink the fibroids without surgery and whether there is something I can take to stop going to the bathroom all night so I can sleep.

___________________________________________________

So I think it is fairly safe to say that you have given us the textbook definition of an abdominal wall hernia here in your question. The fact that it occurred suddenly during exertion and produced a  bulge in the abdominal wall is nearly diagnositic. 

Abdominal wall hernia's are not as common as umbilical hernias or inguinal hernias, but they do occur, and they do require repair by a surgeon. 

This link here might be helpful to you, I'm not sure, you seem to understand what a hernia is but I will provide it for your information.

Strangely, it is the small hernias that are the most dangerous. For this reason I think it is critical that you see a surgeon soon to get this looked at. Small hernias are prone to 'incarceration' which can lead to 'strangulation', where the herniated tissue becomes trapped and dies. This then can lead to rupture and peritonitis and then, instead of an elective repair of a small hernia defect, you face major surgery and days if not weeks in the hospital. 

My recommendation about your second question is simply that you consider a hysterectomy. At age 43 you are likely not thinking about having children, and I can only assume that the myomectomies were performed in an attempt to preserve fertility. There is no medicine that will allow for you to sleep through the night as the problem is mechanical, the fibroids are compressing the bladder. 

Interestingly, since it is likely you will need surgery for this hernia that we think you have, you might be able to get the hernia repair and a laparascopic or trans-vaginal hysterectomy done at the same time. This will require agreement between two surgeons (not an easy feat), but it's certainly something I would pursue if I were you. 

Finally, if you have not had your blood count checked lately you will want to do that. Uterine fibroids, with the chronic bleeding that often accompanies them, can cause ANEMIA, and it may be that you have anemia and are experiencing some of the common symptoms associated with it (link provided). 

If you have any questions about my answer please ask them in the comment section. Thanks for your question, and good luck!