Common Surgical Concerns: Abdominal Pain, Head Bumps, and Dizziness - Surgery

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Various Surgical Issues


1.
I have been experiencing abdominal pain in the upper left quadrant, usually occurring about half an hour to an hour after breakfast.
What could be the cause of this?
2.
Recently, I have noticed two or three raised, painful areas on my head.
I am concerned about what these could be.
3.
I have been feeling dizzy lately and am unsure if it could be due to anemia.
I've heard that anemia might be a precursor to colorectal cancer, which worries me, especially since I've also been experiencing some constipation.

Luò lín, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/10

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery


1.
The left upper abdomen primarily corresponds to the location of the stomach, as well as other parts of the intestines.
If there is gastrointestinal pain after meals, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist or seek an in-person evaluation to determine whether it is a functional issue (such as gastric spasms) or a structural problem (such as gastrointestinal inflammation).
2.
For pain upon pressing the head, an in-person consultation is necessary.
A physician's physical examination can determine whether it is due to normal anatomical structures (such as protrusions of the skull) or if there are subcutaneous tumors.
Pressing on the scalp can often irritate the periosteum, leading to pain.
3.
Dizziness may be caused by anemia, which can only be confirmed through blood tests.
Additionally, considering your age, it may be a bit early to suspect colorectal cancer; the peak incidence in the general population is between 50 and 60 years old, although cases in individuals aged 30 to 40 are not uncommon.
The key symptoms to watch for include changes in bowel habits and the presence of blood in the stool.
Young women often experience issues with constipation leading to hemorrhoidal bleeding.
Increasing water intake (an additional 1,000 milliliters per day) may help soften stools and improve bowel movements.

Reply Date: 2020/08/10

More Info


When it comes to common surgical concerns such as abdominal pain, head bumps, and dizziness, it is essential to approach each symptom with careful consideration and understanding of potential underlying conditions. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Abdominal Pain After Breakfast: Experiencing abdominal pain, particularly in the upper left quadrant after eating, can be attributed to several factors. One common cause could be gastritis or an ulcer, where the stomach lining becomes inflamed or damaged, leading to pain after food intake. Another possibility is related to the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, especially if there is a history of gallbladder issues or pancreatitis. Additionally, functional gastrointestinal disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) could also manifest as postprandial pain. It is crucial to monitor the pain's characteristics—such as its intensity, duration, and any accompanying symptoms like nausea or changes in bowel habits—and consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies or endoscopy.

2. Bumps on the Head: The presence of bumps on the head that are painful upon pressure could be indicative of several conditions. Commonly, these could be sebaceous cysts, which are benign lumps filled with oil and dead skin cells. They are generally harmless but can become inflamed or infected, causing discomfort. Another possibility is lymphadenopathy, where lymph nodes become swollen due to infection or other causes. In rare cases, these bumps could be indicative of more serious conditions, such as tumors. Given your concern, it is advisable to have these bumps evaluated by a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist or a primary care physician, who can assess them and recommend appropriate management.

3. Dizziness and Potential Anemia: Dizziness can stem from various causes, and while anemia is one possibility, it is not the only one. Anemia can lead to insufficient oxygen delivery to the brain, resulting in feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness. However, other factors such as dehydration, low blood pressure, vestibular disorders, or even anxiety can also contribute to dizziness. The concern about anemia being a precursor to colorectal cancer is valid, as unexplained anemia, especially in older adults, can sometimes be associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, which warrants further investigation. Given your symptoms of constipation, it is essential to discuss these concerns with your healthcare provider. They may recommend blood tests to check your hemoglobin levels and possibly a colonoscopy to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. It is crucial to provide them with a detailed history of your symptoms, including their onset, duration, and any associated factors. This information will help guide the diagnostic process and ensure that any necessary interventions are made promptly. Remember, early detection and management of any underlying conditions can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

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Related FAQ

Abdominal Pain

(Surgery)

Head Lump

(Surgery)

Persistent Headache

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Diarrhea

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Vomiting

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Head Injury

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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Headache

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Cramps

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Anal Itching

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