Pain Near the Navel: Possible Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

There is pain upon palpation 5 centimeters to the left of the umbilicus?

Dr.
Chen, six months ago, I began to experience intense pain when pressing about 5 centimeters to the left of my navel.
Sometimes, during the night while resting, I feel intermittent sharp pain in that area, occurring approximately every 3 minutes, followed by a 2-minute interval without pain.
This has continued for several hours and has happened three times since I first noticed it.
I also frequently feel fatigued and lethargic, and recently I've developed a few small, unexplained red rashes that resemble blisters on my skin.
Additionally, wounds seem to take a long time to heal.
Could you please advise on the possible causes of these symptoms?

Liu Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/27

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

These symptoms may not necessarily be related; please consult a gastroenterologist and a dermatologist.

Reply Date: 2016/04/27

More Info

Pain near the navel can be concerning, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, skin rashes, and slow healing of wounds. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for the pain you are experiencing, and it is important to consider them in a comprehensive manner.

1. Gastrointestinal Issues: The area near the navel is closely associated with various organs, including the intestines. Conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, or even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could lead to localized pain. Appendicitis typically presents with pain that starts near the navel and then moves to the lower right abdomen, but in some cases, it can cause referred pain. Diverticulitis, which involves inflammation of small pouches in the colon, can also cause pain in the left lower abdomen.

2. Hernias: An inguinal or umbilical hernia could cause localized pain near the navel. Hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. If you notice a bulge in the area or if the pain worsens with certain activities, this could be a possibility.

3. Musculoskeletal Pain: Sometimes, pain in the abdominal area can stem from muscle strain or injury. If you have engaged in activities that require heavy lifting or twisting, this could lead to pain in the abdominal muscles.

4. Skin Conditions: The presence of small red bumps or blisters, along with slow healing wounds, could indicate a dermatological issue. Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or even infections could manifest as skin rashes and may be related to systemic issues such as immune response or allergies.

5. Systemic Conditions: Your symptoms of fatigue and skin issues could suggest a systemic condition. Autoimmune disorders, for example, can lead to a variety of symptoms, including skin rashes and fatigue. Conditions like lupus or dermatomyositis could present with skin manifestations and systemic symptoms.

6. Infection: An infection in the abdominal area, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or a pelvic infection, could also cause pain near the navel. If you have any accompanying symptoms like fever, chills, or changes in urination, it would be essential to seek medical attention.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to assess the abdominal organs and rule out any serious conditions. Blood tests may also be necessary to check for signs of infection or inflammation.

In the meantime, it is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. Keep track of when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any other accompanying symptoms. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause of your pain.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for the pain near your navel, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention, especially if your symptoms worsen or if you experience new symptoms. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and relief from discomfort.

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