Right Abdomen Enlargement and Limb Pain: Possible Ovarian Issues? - Family Medicine

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Enlargement of the right abdomen with pain in the right arm and leg?


About a year ago, I suddenly experienced soreness in my right arm and right leg, which lasted for several days before improving.
This pattern continued intermittently until earlier this year when I noticed that my right abdomen (near the navel) had become enlarged.
Additionally, my right leg feels particularly tight when wearing long pants, and by the end of the day, there is significant swelling.
Could this be related to my ovaries? Which specialty should I consult for examination? Thank you!

Renee, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/04

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine


Dear Ms.
Renee,
In your letter, you mentioned experiencing frequent pain in your right limbs, an increase in the size of your right abdomen, and susceptibility to edema over the past year.
There are many possible causes for these symptoms.
I recommend that you consult a family medicine specialist or a general internist for a thorough evaluation.
After a detailed history and physical examination, the physician can arrange for necessary tests to clarify the underlying issues.

Reply Date: 2019/09/04

More Info


When experiencing right abdomen enlargement and limb pain, it is essential to consider a variety of potential causes, particularly those related to ovarian health and other abdominal or systemic issues. Given your symptoms of right arm and leg pain, along with the recent enlargement of your right abdomen, it is crucial to approach this situation with a comprehensive understanding of possible underlying conditions.

Firstly, the enlargement of the abdomen, especially localized to the right side, could suggest several possibilities. One of the most common causes could be related to ovarian issues, such as ovarian cysts or tumors. These can sometimes lead to abdominal distension, especially if they are large enough to exert pressure on surrounding structures. Additionally, conditions like ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists around its supporting ligaments, can cause acute pain and may also lead to swelling if there is associated inflammation or fluid accumulation.

Another possibility is the presence of endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, often affecting the ovaries and fallopian tubes. This can lead to pain, especially during menstruation, and may also cause abdominal swelling due to inflammation or the formation of cysts known as endometriomas.

Moreover, the symptoms you describe in your limbs, particularly the right arm and leg, could indicate a systemic issue or a localized nerve problem. Conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome or even issues related to the spine could lead to pain radiating down the arm or leg. It is also worth considering vascular issues, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially if there is swelling in the leg.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to start by consulting with a gynecologist. They can perform a thorough examination, including pelvic ultrasound, to assess the ovaries and surrounding structures for any abnormalities. If ovarian issues are ruled out, or if the gynecologist suspects that the symptoms may be related to other systems, they may refer you to other specialists, such as a neurologist for nerve-related issues or a vascular surgeon if there are concerns about blood flow.

In addition to these evaluations, it is essential to monitor any changes in your symptoms, such as the intensity of pain, the presence of any new symptoms (like fever, changes in bowel habits, or urinary symptoms), and the pattern of swelling. Keeping a detailed record of these changes can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

In summary, while there may be a connection between your symptoms and ovarian health, it is crucial to approach this situation holistically. Start with a visit to a gynecologist, who can guide you through the necessary evaluations and referrals to ensure that all potential causes are explored. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any underlying conditions effectively.

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