Right Lower Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention - Surgery

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When experiencing right lower abdominal pain, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Your symptoms, which include sudden severe pain, discomfort while walking, and pain during urination or bowel movements, can be indicative of various underlying conditions. Given the complexity of abdominal pain and its potential association with multiple organ systems, a thorough evaluation is necessary.


Possible Causes of Right Lower Abdominal Pain
1. Appendicitis: Although your white blood cell count was normal, appendicitis can sometimes present with atypical symptoms. It typically causes sharp pain in the right lower abdomen, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

2. Ovarian Issues: In females, conditions such as ovarian cysts, torsion, or ectopic pregnancy can cause significant pain in the lower abdomen. Since you mentioned that gynecological evaluations were normal, this may be less likely, but it should still be considered if symptoms persist.

3. Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or diverticulitis can lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Your mention of gastrointestinal discomfort and previous issues with your digestive system suggests that this could be a contributing factor.

4. Urinary Tract Issues: Pain during urination and increased frequency can indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder issues. These conditions can sometimes cause referred pain to the lower abdomen.

5. Musculoskeletal Pain: Sometimes, pain in the abdominal area can be due to muscle strain or other musculoskeletal issues, especially if you have been engaging in activities that may have strained your abdominal muscles.


When to Seek Medical Attention
Given your symptoms and their persistence, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Here are some specific indicators that warrant immediate attention:
- Severe Pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or significantly worsens, it is crucial to seek emergency care.

- Persistent Symptoms: Since you have experienced ongoing discomfort and changes in your bowel and urinary habits, further investigation is warranted.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you develop fever, vomiting, or any signs of systemic illness, such as chills or sweating, you should seek medical attention promptly.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: If you notice blood in your stool, severe constipation, or diarrhea, these symptoms require immediate evaluation.


Recommended Next Steps
1. Visit a Specialist: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist for a comprehensive evaluation of your gastrointestinal health. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan, to assess for any underlying issues.

2. Consider a Urologist: If urinary symptoms persist, a consultation with a urologist may be necessary to rule out any urinary tract issues.

3. Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting your symptoms, including their frequency, duration, and any associated factors (like diet or activity), can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

4. Follow-Up Care: If you have already seen a physician and your symptoms have not improved, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or return for further evaluation.

In conclusion, while some abdominal pain can be benign, the combination of your symptoms suggests that a thorough investigation is warranted. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve your overall health. Please take your symptoms seriously and seek the appropriate medical care.