Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help

Q: Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello A-Wen： Your mother's symptoms require a physician's evaluation for diagnosis, as they encompass multiple specialties. <br>It is recommended that your mother first consult a family medicine physician, and then follow the doctor's advice to see other specialists as needed.

A lump beside the navel?

Hello doctor, my mother suddenly started experiencing pain just to the right of her belly button.
At first, we thought it was a pulled muscle, but later it felt more like a sharp pain.
This has been going on for a while now, and it hurts whenever she exerts herself, laughs, raises her arms, or bends down.
There is a noticeable swelling to the right of her belly button.
Which specialty should we consult? (My mother has esophageal motility disorder; I’m not sure if that’s related.) Sometimes she also feels pain in her stomach and ribs.
Additionally, my mother has a lump around her left shoulder, near the collarbone; which specialty should we see for that? She also feels very uncomfortable in the mornings, and I wonder if that is related to the lump.
Is there anything we can do to help her feel less uncomfortable in the mornings? I apologize for having so many questions, but I really don’t know what to do or which department to visit.
I understand that it’s difficult for a doctor to give advice without seeing her, but I would appreciate any suggestions on which specialty to consult.
Thank you, doctor.

A-Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/08

Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine

Hello A-Wen: Your mother's symptoms require a physician's evaluation for diagnosis, as they encompass multiple specialties.
It is recommended that your mother first consult a family medicine physician, and then follow the doctor's advice to see other specialists as needed.

Reply Date: 2010/02/08

More Info

When it comes to understanding abdominal pain, especially in the context of your mother's symptoms, it's crucial to approach the situation with a comprehensive perspective. Given the complexity of her symptoms, which include pain near the navel, discomfort when bending or lifting, and a noticeable swelling on the right side of her abdomen, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.

Understanding Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can arise from various causes, ranging from benign to serious conditions. In your mother's case, the pain localized to the right side of her abdomen could indicate several potential issues, including:
1. Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix can cause pain in the lower right abdomen and may require surgical intervention.

2. Hernia: A bulge in the abdominal wall can lead to pain, especially when straining or lifting.

3. Gallbladder Issues: Conditions like gallstones can cause referred pain to the abdomen and may also affect the shoulder.

4. Gastrointestinal Disorders: Given her history of esophageal issues, conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastritis could also contribute to her discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given the persistence of her symptoms and the fact that they are affecting her daily activities, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical help:
- Severe Pain: If the pain is severe and persistent, it warrants immediate medical attention.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If she experiences fever, vomiting, changes in bowel habits, or any signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), she should seek help right away.

- Swelling: The noticeable swelling on the right side of her abdomen is concerning and should be evaluated by a physician.

Recommended Specialists
For your mother's symptoms, the following specialists may be appropriate:
1. Gastroenterologist: This specialist focuses on digestive system disorders and can evaluate her abdominal pain, especially considering her history of esophageal issues.

2. General Surgeon: If a hernia or appendicitis is suspected, a general surgeon would be the right choice for evaluation and potential surgical intervention.

3. Orthopedic Specialist: For her left shoulder pain, particularly if it is related to her clavicle or rotator cuff, an orthopedic doctor would be suitable.

Addressing Morning Discomfort
Regarding your mother's discomfort upon waking, it could be related to several factors, including:
- Sleep Position: Poor sleeping posture can lead to musculoskeletal pain. Encouraging her to use supportive pillows may help.

- Medication Side Effects: If she is on medication for her esophageal condition or other health issues, side effects could contribute to her discomfort.

- Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as anxiety or depression can manifest physically, leading to discomfort upon waking.

Conclusion
In summary, your mother's symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. It is essential to address both her abdominal pain and shoulder discomfort, as well as her morning unease. A coordinated approach involving the right specialists will help in diagnosing the underlying issues and formulating an effective treatment plan. Encourage her to seek medical attention promptly, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

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