Chronic pancreatitis – NHS

Chronic pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas has become permanently damaged from inflammation and stops working properly.

The pancreas is a small organ, located behind the stomach, that helps with digestion.

Chronic pancreatitis can affect people of any age, but it usually develops between the ages of 30 and 40 as a result of heavy drinking over many years. It’s more common in men.

It’s different from acute pancreatitis, where the inflammation is only short term.

Most people with chronic pancreatitis have had 1 or more attacks of acute pancreatitis.

Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis

The most common symptom of chronic pancreatitis is repeated episodes of severe pain in your tummy (abdomen).

The pain usually develops in the middle or left side of your tummy and can move along your back.

It’s been described as a burning or shooting pain that comes and goes, but may last for several hours or days.

Although the pain sometimes comes on after eating a meal, there’s often no trigger. Some people might feel sick and vomit.

As the condition progresses, the painful episodes may become more frequent and severe.

Eventually, a constant dull pain can develop in your tummy, between episodes of severe pain.

This is most common in people who continue to drink alcohol after being diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis.

Some people who stop drinking alcohol and stop smoking may find the pain is less severe.

Advanced chronic pancreatitis

Other symptoms develop as the damage to the pancreas progresses and it becomes unable to produce digestive juices, which help to break down food.

The absence of digestive juices means it’s harder to break down fats and some proteins. This can cause your poo to become very smelly and greasy, and make it difficult to flush down the toilet.

The pancreas usually only loses these functions many years after the first symptoms started.

You may also experience:

When to get medical advice

See a GP immediately if you’re experiencing severe pain, as this is a warning sign that something is wrong.

If this is not possible, call NHS 111 for advice.

You should also see a GP as soon as you can if you:

• develop symptoms of jaundice
• keep being sick

Jaundice can have a range of causes other than pancreatitis, but it’s usually a sign there’s something wrong with your digestive system.

Diagnosing chronic pancreatitis

A GP will ask about your symptoms and may examine you.

They’ll refer you to a specialist for further tests if they think you have chronic pancreatitis.

The specialist will be able to confirm whether you have the condition.

Tests

Tests and scans are usually carried out in your local hospital.

They may include:

• an ultrasound scan – where sound waves are used to create a picture of your pancreas
• a CT scan – where a series of X-rays are taken to build up a more detailed 3D image of your pancreas
• an endoscopic ultrasound scan – where a long, thin tube containing a camera is passed through your mouth and down into your stomach to take pictures of your pancreas
• magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) – a type of MRI scan that takes a detailed image of your pancreas and the organs around it

Biopsy

Sometimes the symptoms of chronic pancreatitis can be very similar to pancreatic cancer.

You may need a biopsy, where a small sample of cells is taken from the pancreas and sent to a laboratory to be checked, to rule this out.

Causes of chronic pancreatitis

The most common cause of chronic pancreatitis is drinking excessive amounts of alcohol over many years.

This can cause repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis, which results in increasing damage to the organ.

Find out more about alcohol misuse

In children the most common cause is cystic fibrosis.

Less common causes include:

• smoking
• the immune system attacking the pancreas (autoimmune chronic pancreatitis)
• inheriting a faulty gene that stops the pancreas working properly
• injury to the pancreas
• gallstones blocking the openings (ducts) of the pancreas
• radiotherapy to the tummy

In some cases, no cause can be identified. This is called idiopathic chronic pancreatitis.

Treatment for chronic pancreatitis

The damage to the pancreas is permanent, but treatment can help control the condition and manage any symptoms.

People with chronic pancreatitis are usually advised to make lifestyle changes, such as stopping drinking alcohol and stopping smoking. They’re also given medicine to relieve pain.

Surgery may also be an option for those experiencing severe pain.

Complications

Living with chronic pain can cause mental as well as physical strain.

See a GP if you’re experiencing stress, anxiety or depression caused by chronic pancreatitis.

About 1 in 3 people with chronic pancreatitis will eventually develop a type of diabetes known as type 3c diabetes.

This occurs when the pancreas can no longer produce insulin because it’s become so damaged.

People with chronic pancreatitis can sometimes develop sacs of fluid on the surface of their pancreas (pseudocysts). These can cause bloating, indigestion and dull tummy pain.

These cysts often disappear on their own. But sometimes they need to be drained using a technique called endoscopic ultrasound drainage, or endoscopic transpapillary drainage.

Chronic pancreatitis increases your risk of pancreatic cancer, although the chance is still small.

Support for people living with chronic pancreatitis

Any long-term health condition, particularly one that causes recurring episodes of pain or constant pain, can affect your emotional and psychological health.

See a GP if you’re experiencing psychological and emotional difficulties. There are medicines available that can help with stress, anxiety and depression.

Talking to other people with the same condition can often reduce feelings of isolation and stress.

The charity Guts UK, may be able to put you in touch with a local support group.

Page last reviewed: 31 October 2018
Next review due: 31 October 2021

What’s Causing My Left Side Back Pain?

Unfortunately, the truth behind left side pain is that there is not one solution. The structure of your bones and muscles from top to bottom are very different and do not share the same treatments. Because of this, this guide is organized by conditions, symptoms, causes and treatments for pain in your upper left side, lower left side, and left hip or groin. Start by locating the area in which you have pain. Once you have found it, read more on the potential conditions in this region, what is likely causing the pain, and how you can best treat it!

The Top 2 Reasons for Upper Left Back Pain

Upper left side back pain is less common than lower left back pain. This is because the bones in the upper region of our bodies are much less flexible than bones elsewhere. This area is commonly known to range from the base of the neck to the rib cage. This includes the shoulder blade and the connection of the rib cage to the thoracic region. The area includes many structures that may cause pain, including shoulder joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Common issues in this area arise from the musculoskeletal, this includes conditions such as fractured vertebrates.

1. Pinched Nerve or Cervical Radiculopathy

“My pain is radiating down the left side of my neck”

Symptoms for Pinched Nerves

If you have a pinched or inflamed nerve in your upper left back your symptoms are most likely pain that is sharp and radiating down your neck, numbness or burning sensation, or the feeling of weakness on the upper left back.

Pinched Nerve Causes

The most common reason you are experiencing neck and shoulder pain on the left side is because of a pinched or inflamed nerve that occurs within your spine. Your nerves are the main carriers of information from the brain to the rest of the body, and vice-versa. If a nerve is pinched or inflamed, the signal of this information sending is interrupted in some way. A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues. This can be caused by a variety of things, including compression, constriction, or overstretching of the nerve. Pinched nerves can happen as a result of things like a herniated disc, degenerative disc, and bony growths.

Treatments for Pinched Nerve

If you’re suffering from a pinched or inflamed nerve we highly recommend rest for a faster recovery. Along with rest, some use medication, physical therapy, or anti-inflammatory medication to tame the inflamed nerves. It’s also recommended that you isolate your neck and keep it still during your recovery time. Neck collars or immobilizers are a great way to help lead you towards a faster recovery by isolation of the neck.

1. Arthritis / Cervical Spondylosis:

Symptoms of Arthritis

If you have arthritis, you are most likely experiencing stiffness in your neck. You might also have headaches and a grinding or popping sensation when turning your head. In more serious cases, numbness and weakness may occur in your arms, hands and fingers.

Causes of Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, muscles, and/or bones. Any portion of the back can be affected by arthritis, including the upper left side of your back. However, it is worth noting that the lower back is the most common site for arthritis. Most of the causes associated with upper left back arthritis are age-related. This means that upper back arthritis tends to be a degeneration disorder. This type of neck arthritis is often referred to as cervical spondylosis.

Arthritis Treatment

The key to treating upper left back arthritis is to work on strengthening and improving the flexibility in this area. Stretching and exercising is highly recommended in the recovery of cervical spondylosis.

3 Main Causes of Lower Left Side Back Pain

If you’re experiencing lower left side back pain, you’re not alone! Nearly 60% of adults feel some form of lower back pain in their lifetime. Lower left back pain is more common compared to the back pain felt in the lower right quadrant. Often we define lower left side back pain as ranging in between your hip and leg. Many people describe their lower left pain as dull and achy. Oftentimes the pain in the lower back is known to increase with the intensity of activities. For example, you may feel the most pain when carrying groceries or going for a run. The good news is, it often feels much more serious than it actually is. Most conditions that are associated with lower left back pain are fairly treatable, however, there are a few instances that may be something more serious.

1. Lower Back Muscle Strain

Muscle Strain Symptoms

Strained muscles typically feel tight, dull and/or achy. These feelings intensify with movement that activates the affected muscle such as bending over or standing up from being seated. Some inflammation may come with a low back muscle strain as well. You can be fairly confident that it is a muscle strain if no movement and rest is when you find the most relief.

Causes of Muscle Strains

This injury generally isn’t too serious and often goes away on its own. However, there are circumstances where the injury could be more severe. Muscle strain happens when the muscles in your body are overstretched or torn. In serious cases, muscle stains can result in damage to the muscle fibers. Keep your body active and flexible to avoid causing muscle strain down the road.

Treatments for Muscle Strain

Rest and medication are the best way to get rid of your pain quickly. However, you never want to rest for too long because this will weaken your muscles. Most muscle strains should go away within four days to a week. Another great option is bracing this area of the body. A low back support can be a great way to help prevent future muscle strains as well.

1. Herniated Disc

Symptoms of Herniated Discs

Herniated discs can be tricky in diagnosing because in some cases, there are no noticeable symptoms. Other times, pain, numbness or weakness occur in the lower left region of your back. This pain stems from nerves near the affected disc. The pain most commonly felt is described as numb and progressively worse at night. Herniated discs often worsen when performing an activity such as walking or running.

Causes of Herniated Disc

Your spinal column is made up of a series of vertebrae stacked one on top of the other. These vertebrae range from seven in the cervical spine, 12 in the thoracic spine, and five in the lumbar spine. These vertebrae are cushioned by discs that protect them and absorb shock. It’s not uncommon for one of these discs to slip; this is referred to as a herniated disc. The lower back is one of the most common places to experience a herniated disc.

Herniated Disc Treatments

Treatments for a herniated disc can vary greatly. The treatment you and your doctor decide on will depend on the level and frequency of discomfort. Many people can relieve herniated disc injuries through exercise and physical therapy. We highly recommend you avoid heavy lifting during recovery, and if needed, take over the counter medication. It can sometimes be difficult to understand the difference between a herniated disc and other back conditions. If you are struggling, we have resources to help you better understand the difference in lower back conditions.

1. Diverticulitis

“My pain is in my lower left stomach”

Symptoms of Diverticulitis

The primary symptoms include severe belly pain on the lower left side of the body, fever, chills, stomach bloating, constipation or diarrhea.

Causes of Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis happens when diverticula forms in the wall of the colon. This type of condition is intestinal, meaning it affects the intestines or stomach and abdomen area. These pouches of diverticula can get inflamed or infected and can become very painful. Oftentimes, diverticulitis is associated with left side back pain because of the location in the stomach. Your chances of developing diverticulitis can increase with age, obesity, smoking, lack of exercise, and certain medications.

Treatment for Diverticulitis

If the diverticulitis is mild, it can likely be treated with rest, changes in your diet and antibiotics. Severe or recurrent diverticulitis may require surgery. If you think you may have diverticulitis please consult with your doctor for treatment ideas.

2 Reasons for Left Hip & Groin Pain

It’s not uncommon to experience hip pain or joint problems and confuse it with back pain. Hip pain is commonly what we call “referred pain,” meaning pain or injury that occurred in your back or elsewhere may be felt in this region. If you’re experiencing pain that is located on the inside of your hip or near your groin it’s most likely caused by problems with your muscles, ligaments, and tendons. If you’re suffering from acute hip pain it is likely from an injury, not a chronic condition.

1. Hip/Groin Pull or Tear

Symptoms of Hip & Groin Pulls or Tears

Pulling or tearing your groin can be quite painful and inconvenient. You are likely experiencing hip and/or groin pain and swelling. The pain is typically dull and achy and can range from within the hip, to outside of the hip and groin. There could be problems with the muscles, ligaments or tendons within the left hip.

Causes of Groin & Hip Pulls

This is caused by a strain to the hip abductors or the muscles that pull the legs together. These muscles are attached to the thigh bones at the level of the hip and run down the side of the thigh. This injury occurs when the area is overused or overstretched, and is common amongst athletes.

Treatments for Hip & Groin Tears

Lucky for you, hips do a good job of healing on their own with the allowed rest. Rest and ice are the top two treatments for pulled groins. Added compression can assist in bringing blood flow to the area to encourage healing. We offer a wide array of hip and groin supports to provide you with the needed compression.

1. Hamstring Injuries

“The back of my left leg hurts when I bend and straighten my leg”

Hamstring Injury Symptoms

Hamstring injuries make it difficult to bend or straighten your leg. You probably have tenderness, swelling or even bruising on the back of your thigh. Weakness may be a symptom for a while with hamstring injuries as well.

Hamstring Injury Causes

Your hamstring is made up of three distinct muscles, running down the back of your thigh. The hamstring muscles operate together as the knee flexor. Hamstring injuries most often occur when the muscles experience extreme stress and tear. It’s extremely common to experience the effects of your hamstring injury in the groin and hip area. Oftentimes, the injury will happen higher up, resulting in radiated pain to this area.

Treatment for Hamstring Injuries

Hamstrings follow the R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, elevation) formula when it comes to treating the injury. Allow yourself plenty of rest to get back to feeling better as soon as possible, but keep the muscle moving during recovery with light stretching so you don’t get overly stiff.

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5 Reasons You Might Have Flank Pain

If it hurts in your mid-back region on either side of your body, it could be a pulled muscle — or something more serious.

Back pain is common, with as many as eight in 10 people experiencing it at some point in their lives. But what does it mean if you’re having a specific type of discomfort called flank pain? Your flanks are the areas around the sides of your body from your upper abdomen to your back. If you’re having discomfort in this region, either as right or left flank pain, the cause may be one of the following conditions.

1. Degenerative disc disease

One of the most common reasons for flank pain is the degeneration of the squishy discs that cushion the 26 vertebrae, or bones, of your spine. As you get older, the discs can compress and cause pain. They can even rupture and bulge out, which you may have heard called a herniated disc or a slipped disc.

“When the disc degenerates, the space where the nerves exit the spine becomes narrow, and the joints can sometimes become compressed,” explains Christopher C. Ornelas, MD, a spine specialist at Keck Medicine of USC and an assistant professor of clinical orthopaedic surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. “This causes irritation of the nerves, which can lead to pain that radiates to the flank.”

If your symptoms and physical exam suggest that you may have degenerative disc disease or a herniated disc, your doctor will recommend imaging tests.

“Often, a routine X-ray is sufficient, but if the pain is persistent, or if it is accompanied by weakness, an MRI of the mid or lower spine may be indicated,” Ornelas says. “Treatment usually involves rest, medicine, physical therapy, spinal injection or, as a last resort, surgery.”

2. Osteoarthritis of the spine

If you have osteoarthritis of the spine, the joint cartilage wears down, which can irritate spinal nerves and cause flank pain, according to Ornelas.

Osteoarthritis of the spine can sometimes lead to the growth of bone spurs as well, which can cause another problem called spinal stenosis, in which the spinal canal narrows and the spinal cord and nerve roots can become compressed. Nonsurgical treatment options such as physical therapy or braces may relieve symptoms; if not, surgery is an option.

3. Pulled muscle

If you’ve been exercising vigorously or lifting heavy objects — or even just spent a long day working in front of the computer — it’s also possible you pulled a muscle.

“It’s important to consider that the muscle in the flank area can sometimes be pulled and irritated with activities such as lifting, bending or twisting, and sometimes it can become irritated just by sitting for prolonged periods of time,” Ornelas says.

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4. Kidney issues

It’s also possible your flank pain has nothing to do with your back at all. Your kidneys are located on each side of your spine, behind your rib cage, so they can also be the cause of flank pain. One of the main symptoms of kidney stones, for example, is sharp pain that starts in your back and side.

Kidney infections, which can happen when a urinary tract infection moves up from your bladder to your kidneys, can also cause flank pain. In addition to flank pain, you may have a fever, chills, painful urination or nausea.

5. Shingles or other conditions

Flank pain that is accompanied by a rash on one side of your body can be a sign of shingles, which is caused by the varicella-zoster (chicken pox) virus. Liver disease or gastrointestinal problems may also cause pain in your flank.

If you have flank pain that doesn’t go away, is severe or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s a good idea to see your doctor.

by Tina Donvito

Do you have a spine issue that is causing pain? Our spine experts can help. If you are in the Los Angeles area, request an appointment or call (800) USC-CARE (800-872-2273).

Upper Left Back Pain Causes and Treatment

For anyone who has ever experienced upper left back pain, they understand how annoying and irritating it can be.

Let’s be honest, dealing with body pain of any kind is never pleasant. It can be disconcerting when we experience, spontaneous or unexplained aches and pain in the body, especially in an area like the back.

There are a number of reasons, though, that people might experience discomfort or pain in the upper left back.

It’s important to note that some types of back pain can be organ-related, but these will usually appear down lower. These may be issues like pancreatitis, kidney stones or intestinal inflammation.

A thorough examination by your physician or a chiropractic back specialist can help determine if these might be the cause of your back pain.

Many people wonder, “When should I go to the ER for upper back pain?” If you’re experiencing chest pain that radiates or spreads to areas like the jaw and neck, or you start to feel upper back pain in association with these symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room as it may be a sign of an ongoing heart attack.

Of course, something more obvious like an injury caused by a fall, a collision of some sort, or a strain during athletic or work activity can be the reason for experiencing one-sided back pain.

Continued stress on the soft-tissue in the back can also lead to back pain on the right or left side as well.

9 Causes of Upper Left Back Pain

Minor pain in the upper back on the left side might be the result of normal activities, such as sleeping or sitting in front of the computer for too long. It’s also common after being confined to a seated position during long stretches of travel.

This type of pain will usually remedy itself. An over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, like ibuprofen, may decrease inflammation and help relieve the discomfort. Icing the effected area can also reduce pain and inflammation.

However, there are other chronic conditions that can cause upper left back pain that require treatment.

Here are 9 Causes of Upper Back Pain on the Left Side:

1. Soft Tissue Injury

A soft-tissue injury such as a tear or strain often caused by repetitive movements related to work activities or sports, like golf and baseball, can result in upper back pain on the left or right side.

An awkward or sudden movement encountered when attempting to lift or pull a heavy object without proper form can certainly result in a back injury as well.

2. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis can occur from the breakdown of cartilage in between, or at the end of bones. This is one of the most common types of upper back pain.

One of the most common forms of arthritis is Osteoarthritis, and it usually begins to appear in middle age, although it can become an issue at any age due to an injury.

3. Fractures

Fractures in the vertebrae are often a symptom of osteoarthritis because the bones are weakened and become porous. Fractures can also be the result of car accidents, a fall, or a wide variety of sports-related injuries.

4. Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the term given to a sideways curvature to the spine. This upsets the body’s natural alignment and over time, it can lead to chronic back pain.

Many cases of Scoliosis are considered mild, but some can be very painful and require monitored medical attention.

5. Myofascial Pain

Myofascial pain is related to stressed or sensitive trigger points. The trapezius muscle, which is located in the upper back, can become affected by this type of condition and usually causes weakness, knotting, and poor range of motion.

6. Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which is often linked to bony projections in the spine called bone spurs.

It is usually most noticeable in the lower back or neck areas and it cause pain as a result of pressure on the nerves.

7. Obesity

Obesity can lead to upper back pain because of the added pressure of weight on the musculoskeletal makeup of the back. Obesity can cause pain in the upper back on either side, but it usually strains the lower or waist region.

8. Poor Posture

Chronic poor posture can cause upper left back pain by putting constant stress on the spine and muscles in the back. Poor posture when sitting for long periods of time is a typical of computer related jobs.

9. Aging

Age, of course is also a factor, especially for people who are out of shape or have weak core strength. We all lose muscle mass and strength from aging, so keeping fit and exercising regularly can help reduce age-related back pain.

For chronic back pain, it’s important to see a physician. Diagnosing the specific cause might include getting x-rays, an MRI, a CT scan or blood work to see if the back pain is organ or illness related.

Treatment for Upper Left Back Pain

Maintaining a healthy weight, along with a habit of cardio and strength workouts will help to prevent upper left back pain in the first place. Practicing good posture can also decrease the likelihood of this type of aggravating pain.

When upper left back pain persists, however, it may be time to consider a number of different treatment approaches.

5 Types of Treatment for Pain in the Upper Back on the Left Side:

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an excellent way to strengthen muscles in the back and learn stretching techniques to relieve tension. It can even help develop proper techniques for lifting, throwing, swinging, or other movements that led to pain in the first place.

2. Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue sports massage may be useful to work out tension and knots that might have developed in the muscle as a result of strain or injury.

There are many different types of massage techniques and any one of them will help relieve some of the pain, at least temporarily. Massage can also increase blood flow to the affected area to help with healing.

3. EPAT / Shockwave Therapy

EPAT Therapy (also known as Shockwave Therapy) is a non-invasive method for increasing the speed of healing and injury-related downtime.

EPAT Treatment is a painless, regenerative therapy that helps promote faster healing by delivering impulse pressure waves deep within damaged soft tissue. It works by stimulating blood flow to irritated tendons and ligaments and lessens inflammation for improved healing.

This form of treatment is non-surgical so there is no anesthesia necessary, no scarring, and no risk of infection.

In some cases, athletes or workers can actually undergo treatment sessions while still maintaining high levels of athletic activity or continuing to work.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Anti-inflammatory medication can be found over the counter in ibuprofen products like Advil, and can help reduce pain and inflammation. This can be used in the beginning when pain is first noticed and should be used in conjunction with a period of rest.

5. Heat and Ice

When upper back pain first appears, it’s best to ice the area with some form of cold pack to decrease swelling and inflammation. This will numb the area and constrict the blood vessels. Ice should also be used after every workout session.

It’s also ideal to alternate heat on the impacted area after the inflammation has been reduced. Heat will stimulate blood flow to the region to increase flexibility of the muscles and soft tissue.

All of these forms of treatment can help with upper back pain on the left or right side, as well as the middle of the back or lower down.

If upper back pain persists and becomes chronic, it is always advised to seek the consultation of a back specialist for a proper medical assessment.

Pancreatitis | Riley Children’s Health

Acute pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes rapidly inflamed. Chronic pancreatitis occurs when there is long-standing inflammation in the pancreas.

Acute pancreatitis can be caused by:

• Abdominal trauma such as an injury to the belly
• Bacterial or viral infection
• Medicines or toxins
• An obstruction (such as gallstones) to pancreatic fluid flow
• Systemic disease such as:

Chronic pancreatitis can be caused by:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Congenital pancreas abnormality
• Cystic fibrosis
• Hereditary pancreatitis
• High lipid and/or calcium levels

In almost half of pediatric pancreatitis cases, no cause is identified.

The most common sign of pancreatitis is severe abdominal pain, which usually occurs rapidly and is located above the belly button and on the left side of the abdomen. Sometimes the pain is felt in the middle of the back. Often a child will not want to move and will lie on his or her side with the knees pulled to the chest.

Other symptoms of pancreatitis include:

• Abdominal tenderness
• Abdominal distension
• Decreased appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain in the middle of the back

Diagnosis of Pancreatitis

If your child experiences symptoms of pancreatitis, a pediatric gastroenterologist may perform the following exams and tests to help make a diagnosis:

• Blood tests. Your child’s pediatric specialist will order a blood test to check the levels of amylase and lipase—two pancreatic enzymes. If the enzyme levels are elevated, the doctor will diagnose pancreatitis.
• Imaging. If a blood test reveals pancreatitis, your child’s pediatric gastroenterologist will follow up with imaging tests to check for complications such as gallstones and to look for any anatomical defects in the bile duct, gallbladder and pancreatic duct. Imaging tests used include:
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. In complex or repeated cases of pancreatitis, an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) scope test is sometimes performed to look for problems in the bile and pancreatic ducts

Pain Locator: Where Does it Hurt?

Right Upper Quadrant

Organs found in this quadrant include: the liver, the gallbladder, duodenum, the upper portion of the pancreas, and the hepatic flexure of the colon.

Pain in the right upper quadrant may be indicative of hepatitis, cholecystitis, or the formation of a peptic ulcer.

Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis occurs if a gallstone finds its way into a bile duct preventing bile from flowing out and causing your gallbladder to become inflamed. Symptoms of Cholecystitis include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Belly pain (may worsen when taking deep breaths)
• Possible aches in back or right shoulder blade

Note: Bacteria also can cause Cholecystitis.

Hepatitis
Regardless of cause, inflammation of the liver is referred to as hepatitis. Most instances of hepatitis are viral, but the disease may also be caused by drugs or alcohol. The most common types of viral hepatitis include:

• Hepatitis A – This virus causes an acute inflammation and will usually heal on its own. It’s easily spread in food and water, and often infects many people at once.
• Hepatitis B – This virus can be both acute (short-term illness) and chronic (ongoing illness), and is spread through blood or other body fluids in various ways.
• Hepatitis C – The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is almost always chronic and spreads usually by blood. Hepatitis A and B can be prevented by vaccination, but not hepatitis C. However, certain strains of Hepatitis C may be cured by a regimen of direct-acting antiviral medication.

Peptic Ulcer
A hole in the lining of the digestive tract is called a peptic ulcer. Peptic ulcers are created by erosive digestive action of pepsin and stomach acid, which may be linked to any of the following root causes:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type of stomach infection and inflammation causing bacteria
• Excessive use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like aspirin (Bayer), ibuprofen (Advil), and other anti-inflammatory drugs
• Smoking and drinking
• Radiation therapy
• Stomach cancer

Right Lower Quadrant

Organs found in the right lower quadrant include the appendix, the upper portion of the colon, and the right ovary and the Fallopian tube in women.

The right lower quadrant may be assessed when diagnosing appendicitis, in which case, this quadrant would be tender and painful.

Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix becomes inflamed and filled with pus, causing pain. If left untreated, appendicitis may cause your appendix to rupture and cause infection, which can be serious and even fatal.

Left Upper Quadrant

Organs in the left upper quadrant include the stomach, spleen, left portion of the liver, main body of the pancreas, the left portion of the kidney, adrenal glands, splenix flexure of the colon, and bottom part of the colon.

This quadrant may feel tender in cases of appendicitis and abnormalities of the intestines, such as malrotation.

Left Lower Quadrant

Organs found in this quadrant include the sigmoid colon, and the left ovary and Fallopian tube in women.

Pain in this quadrant may be symptomatic of colitis, diverticulitis, or kidney stones. Ovarian cysts (in women) or pelvic inflammation may also be at the root of pain in this quadrant.

Diverticulitis
Diverticula are small, bulging pouches that can form in the lining of your digestive system. Sometimes, however, one or more of the pouches become inflamed or infected. That condition is known as diverticulitis.

Ureteral Colic
This is most commonly caused by the obstruction of the urinary tract by kidney stones.

Colitis
Colitis, simply put, is inflammation of the colon. The three most common forms of colitis are: ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and infection. 

Ulcerative Colitis
This is a chronic IBD that causes sores (ulcers) in the lining of your colon, as well as inflammation.

Crohn’s Disease
This is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract. Inflammation can appear anywhere in the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, and it generally affects all the layers of the bowel walls, not just the inner lining.

C. Diff. Colitis
This is inflammation of the colon caused by the bacteria Clostridium difficile which can occur after treatment with antibiotics.

4 Common Causes of Abdominal Pain on the Left Side of Your Body

Abdominal pains can appear at any time. While it may just be a cramp, the pain may also be a sign of a more serious illness. If the abdominal pain is on the left side of your body or your left lower quadrant, it may be a number of diseases or conditions.

4 Common Causes of Abdominal Pain on the Left Side of Your Body

If the abdominal pain on the left continues, look for symptoms of the following conditions:

1. Appendicitis

Do you feel pain about 2 inches left of your belly button? While appendicitis is usually associated with the right side of your body, the initial pain often starts near the belly button and can be misinterpreted as coming from the left. An appendicitis infection can cause serious problems if left untreated. Be on the lookout for pain moving to the right side of the abdomen, fever, nausea, and vomiting, and seek medical treatment immediately.

2. Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is the inflammation of diverticula pouches in the large intestine. While diverticulitis is not always a serious condition, in some patients with severe infections surgery is required.

If you, or a loved one over 40, are experiencing abdominal pains, fevers, and nausea, it may be diverticulitis.

3. Constipation

Another cause of abdominal pain on the left side of the body is constipation. Constipation is usually caused by dehydration or a diet that is low in fiber. Not all constipation requires a trip to the emergency room, but in some cases, the sharp pain may warrant a visit. If the pain does not improve after using over-the-counter products, seek medical attention.

4. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, or nephrolithiasis, are small deposits of calcium or uric acid that build up in the kidneys. They are incredibly painful when passing through the urinary tract. Common symptoms of kidney stones include abdominal pain, painful urination, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

Contact Complete Care

If you, or a loved one, are experiencing abdominal pain on the left side of the body, seek medical treatment at your nearest Complete Care emergency room. With multiple locations across Texas, there is one near you.

90,000 What to do if your back hurts? Which doctor to contact, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of back pain

Contents

Types of back pain and possible causes

Most of the requests for medical help are explained by the weakness of the muscular frame of the back, physical inactivity and physical unbearable loads. Less commonly, spinal discomfort is associated with intervertebral hernia, spinal cord neoplasms and bone tumors.

Basically, the cervical and lumbar spine hurts due to high mobility.

Sharp pain in the neck. Often headaches and difficult to turn your head to the side. In the lower back, shooting pains and shingles. It grows during a long walk and is accompanied by numbness of the lower extremities, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and small pelvis. If the lower back pulls, one can assume the development of scoliosis, myositis, pinched nerve and degeneration of the vertebrae.

Pain in the chest region, burning, pulling, sharp, aching. It occurs due to intercostal neuralgia, osteochondrosis. In some cases, pain between the shoulder blades appears due to exacerbation of angina pectoris, stomach ulcers and even myocardial infarction, so only a doctor can determine the cause.

Sometimes back muscles hurt. The discomfort is due to hypothermia, overexertion or excessive physical activity the day before.

Which doctor should I contact?

A neurologist is engaged in diagnostics of back pain. After a comprehensive examination, he prescribes back treatment and selects effective exercises to relieve exacerbation.

Back diseases

The most diagnosed disease is osteochondrosis of the spine . As the progression progresses, the weakness of the limbs increases, fatigue increases.The patient takes an unusual body position. Pathology is dangerous by squeezing the intervertebral discs, nerve roots and the development of diseases masquerading as neuralgia.

In second place – curvature of the spine : kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis. Diseases are first diagnosed in childhood and adolescence, if the child does not hold the posture correctly while sitting at the desk. A change in physiological bends in any direction threatens the displacement of internal organs, compression of the spinal nerves, joint diseases and osteoporosis in the future.Radiculopathy is often diagnosed in old age. The diagnosis becomes a consequence of a neglected form of osteochondrosis and, if untreated, can lead to disruption of the pelvic organs. In men, against this background, prostate adenoma and prostatitis develop, in women – cystitis.

Intervertebral hernia – diagnosis of both young and old patients. As the neoplasm grows, it compresses the vessels and leads to a deterioration in the flow of blood to the brain. This increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.

Who is a neurologist, what does he treat?

The specialist deals with the treatment of diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system. Back pain is a symptom of PNS pathologies, therefore, to find the cause and establish a diagnosis, they turn to a neurologist.

The doctor is competent to check:

• coordination of movements;

90,041 muscle strength;

• sensitivity;

90,041 indicative samples;

90,041 reflexes of the skin and tendons;

• pressure on the body by objects of weight;
• Balance with legs closed, arms extended and eyes closed.

The doctor studies the connections between neurons, the functions of the brain and spinal cord.

A neurologist is consulted not only for back pain. Indications for a visit to a specialist:

• Frequent headaches and dizziness;

90,041 loss of consciousness and fainting;

90,041 tinnitus, flies before the eyes;

• impaired coordination of movements and unsteadiness of gait;
• cramps, tingling of hands and feet;

90,041 goose bumps;

90,041 muscle weakness;

90,041 sleep disorders;

• poor memory, decreased visual acuity and hearing.

How does a neurologist differ from a neuropathologist?

There is no difference between a neurologist and a neuropathologist. The latter formulation was used in the Soviet and post-Soviet space when describing a doctor who studies the pathogenesis of diseases of the nervous system. Today, a neurologist is the only doctor who treats nervous diseases.

Diagnostics

To identify the cause of back pain, a neurologist prescribes a comprehensive examination. To confirm the inflammatory process, he sends the patient for a blood test.If the level of leukocytes is increased, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is increased, then inflammation is confirmed.

Hardware diagnostics are indispensable for checking the condition of the spine:

• Computed tomography . A CT scan shows the condition of the bone tissue in a three-dimensional image. It is prescribed for suspected injuries, bruises and fractures of the spine.
• Magnetic resonance imaging . MRI visualizes the condition of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, and spinal canal.According to the pictures, a benign tumor differs from oncology, the degree of compression of the nerve roots, the distance between the vertebrae, is determined.
• Ultrasound of the vessels of the neck and brain . It is performed in triplex or duplex mode to assess the patency of blood flow through the arteries and vessels. The thickness of the walls of blood vessels, the presence of narrowings and expansions are checked. It is prescribed for frequent dizziness, headaches, surges in blood pressure.
• Electromyography .It is prescribed to determine the patency of nerve impulses in the muscles. It is carried out if there is a suspicion of stenosis, intervertebral hernia, protrusion.
• X-ray of the spine . An inexpensive way to determine the state of bone tissue. It is prescribed for suspected curvature, spondylolisthesis, osteoporosis and spinal column injuries.

Treatment of back pain

Several treatments for back pain are used. The neurologist chooses the right method, taking into account the clinical features, the level of mobility and the patient’s lifestyle.If the back hurts, the neurologist prescribes:

Only in the absence of effect and deterioration of the condition, the specialist resorts to surgical methods.

Let’s consider the above methods in more detail.

The most frequently asked question is how to treat back pain at home? During an attack, before contacting a neurologist, you need to relax the muscles as much as possible and quickly relieve tension from the back at home. To do this, it is best to lie on your stomach on a hard surface, such as the floor. After a couple of minutes, you need to roll over onto your side and draw your knees to your stomach.This exercise will relieve tension from the spine.

The next stage is adherence to bed rest, the use of local ointments with anti-inflammatory effect. For acute pain, it is recommended to apply a compress and alternate cold and heat.

Pain medications for back pain

If local remedies do not relieve the condition, it is worth using medications.

In case of acute pain, the ambulance team puts a medical blockade. This implies an injection into the nerve points of pain relievers.They quickly relax the muscles and relieve spasms.

Chronic back pain is relieved by a course of injections of B vitamins, taking muscle relaxants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics.

Physiotherapy for back pain

Physiotherapy helps to enhance the effect of medications. Most commonly used in neurological practice:

• laser therapy;
• phonophoresis;
• electrophoresis with analgesics;
• UHF therapy;
• magnetic therapy.

Also, patients undergo a course of acupuncture, electroneurostimulation.

exercise therapy

Exercise therapy doctor will select exercises for back pain. Gymnastics and light physical activity relieve tension, normalize blood flow, and strengthen the muscle corset. Classes are started only during remission, when there is no pain.

Common Exercises:

• Lying on your back and pressing your shoulder blades to a hard surface, press your knees to your stomach. Without lifting your back, pull your knees first to the left, then to the right.
• Hang on a horizontal bar or crossbar for a few minutes every day. Traction increases the distance between the vertebrae, reduces the compression of the nerves.
• Get on the floor on your knees and hands. Keeping your arms straight, take your pelvis back and down. The exercise is considered successful when the heels touch the pelvis.
• Place your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms at your waist. Twist the pelvis left and right in a circle.
• Lean on a flat wall, resting on your heels, pelvis, shoulder blades, shoulders and head.Stand daily in this position, each time increasing the time.
• Lying on your stomach, bend in such a way as to tear your legs, head and chest off the floor.
• Lying on your stomach, stretch your arms forward and close your legs. Raise your left leg higher, trying to keep it straight. Repeat the exercise on the right leg. Each movement should be smooth, slow. There should be no pain and discomfort.

Prevention

In the presence of heredity or a sedentary lifestyle, neurologists recommend paying attention to the prevention of back pain.

• So, among the recommendations, experts highlight the benefits of massage, daily walks, contrast shower.
• Weight control is important. If the weight increases, then the load on the spine increases, and the risk of osteochondrosis increases.
• We need to take care of healthy sleep. To maintain posture, you need an orthopedic mattress of medium hardness and an orthopedic low pillow.
• Start your day with morning exercises. 15 minutes a day of light, relaxing exercise will help strengthen your back muscles.
• Nutrition should be monitored. The diet should be balanced. Eat more vegetables and fruits, seafood, nuts, legumes. They contain a lot of magnesium, calcium, B vitamins to strengthen the myelin sheath of the nerves.
• Pay attention to your posture when using your computer. You need to keep your back straight. To do this, it is enough to lean on the back of the chair, placing a roller under the lower back. Every hour you should pause, warm up and walk. In addition, it is important to monitor the position of the legs while working – one leg should not be on the other.
• When going to the store, you cannot carry the bag in one hand. It is better to split purchases into two packages, and take a handbag in hand, rather than carry it over your shoulder. Sports activities are useful for the body – running, swimming, yoga.

Causes of back pain

Back pain – almost everyone is familiar with such an unpleasant sensation. Back pain can vary in intensity and have different localization, which directly depends on the cause of the pain.Among the causes of back pain, there are: congenital and acquired pathologies of the spine, diseases of the musculo-ligamentous apparatus of the back (dorsopathy), inflammatory diseases of soft tissues, diseases of internal organs, in which pain can radiate to the back. Back pain is a symptom that occurs with various medical conditions.

Types and causes of back pain:

• deforming, caused by pathological curvature of the spinal column and / or deformation of the intervertebral discs;
• dystrophic (spondylopathies) resulting from inflammatory, traumatic, degenerative changes.

Back pain can also signal problems in neighboring organs. Pathologies of the lungs, stomach, intestines, heart, gallbladder, female genital organs, kidneys, prostate gland often “give off” back pain. The sensations range from unpleasant pulling to strong dull or sharp sensations.

In intercostal neuralgia, the intensity and nature of the pain are different. It is described as piercing, aching, sharp, dull, unbearable, burning, interfering with breathing. Often, due to the intensity of the pain, intercostal neuralgia is mistaken for a heart attack.

If the “culprit” of pain is the spine, then the symptoms may appear suddenly, for example, after awkward movement, lifting weights, or develop “incrementally”. The pain increases with a certain position of the body (sitting, lying), worries at night.

A piercing pain called a lumbago or lumbago is caused by a prolapsed disc or muscle spasm that pinches the sciatic nerve. The patient is literally unable to move and even breathe fully. Pains with scoliosis, osteochondrosis, injuries, and tumors of the spine are just as intense.

In osteoporosis, pain is episodic, aching, patients feel heaviness in the back.

Acute pain is a sign of a vertebral fracture.

Arthritis is characterized by stiffness, numbness, and sudden sharp pain.

Pain in the upper back and neck area

Pain in this part of the back results from:

90,040 90,041 injuries;

90,041 posture disorders;

Myofascial pain is also characteristic of this localization.

Pain in the middle back – thoracic region

In this part of the back, pain syndrome is less common. This is due to the lower mobility of the spine in the thoracic region.

Mid-back pain can be caused by:

• by tension or injury to muscles, ligaments, discs;

90,041 impaired posture;

• by pressure on the spinal nerves;

90,041 fracture of one of the vertebrae;

• ostearthritis, causing destruction of cartilage tissue.

Pain in the lower back and lower back

There are four main causes of back pain:

1. Mechanical uniting pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, including: muscle tension, muscle spasms, osteoarthritis, destruction of the nucleus pulposus (herniated disc), spinal stenosis, curvature of the spine, compression fracture.
2. Inflammatory – mainly arthritis, including reactive and psoriatic, and ankylosing spondylitis.
3. Malignant – bone metastases from the lungs, thyroid, breast, prostate, and so on.
4. Infectious – osteomyelitis, abscess.

Back pain: treatment

Since back pain is only a symptom, pain relieving ointments, tablets, injections relieve the condition for a while. The main challenge for pain relief and / or relief is to identify the underlying cause of the back pain. Only an experienced neurologist can determine the cause of the pain syndrome after face-to-face consultation and examinations, including anamnesis, examination, neurological tests, biochemical tests, ultrasound, CT, MRI and other studies necessary for an accurate diagnosis.Despite the fact that back pain is more often of musculoskeletal origin, there are many pathologies (appendicitis, kidney diseases, aneurysms, infections of the bladder and kidneys, pelvic organs, diseases of the cardiovascular system and other disorders) that can manifest themselves causing back pain. It is because of this that, before starting treatment, a full examination is necessary, since the treatment tactics for each disease are radically different from each other, and with an incorrect diagnosis, treatment can lead to complications of the underlying disease that causes back pain.

In the case when back pain is caused by diseases of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, a complex treatment is used, which may include:

The doctor selects the treatment individually, taking into account the established cause and the presence of concomitant diseases.

Back pain should be a signal to see a doctor as soon as possible.

You can make an appointment at the President-Med clinic on Kolomenskaya by phone: +7 (495) 012-98-87, +7 (499) 618-60-10

Make an appointment at President-MedVidnoe can be by phone: +7 (495) 106-27-20, +7 (498) 547-15-42, +7 (495) 541-76-30, +7 (498) 547-29-

Artist: Lavrova Nina Avenirovna

Deputy General Director for Medical

Graduated from the Yaroslavl State Medical Institute with a degree in General Medicine
Medical work experience – 25 years

Make an appointment with a doctor

90,000 Muscle spasm: description of the disease, causes, symptoms, cost of treatment in Moscow

Muscle spasm in the back is the contraction of muscle tissue in an involuntary and accelerated manner.At the time of its occurrence, a person experiences significant pain, which can completely deprive him of his ability to work for some time. In general, the attack resembles a convulsion-convulsion, reminiscent of a high-frequency discharge.

A spasm in the muscles of the back has its own pattern of formation: the appearance of a wave of electrical heat (nerve impulse) – an active effect on the muscle – compression of a muscle in the absence of relaxation – a spasm. Its formation is easy to predict, because initially a person feels discomfort in the area of ​​the shoulder blades, which rapidly or in waves develops into pain.The onset of painful compression is cyclical or once manifested discomfort.

Types of back pain with muscle spasm:

1. Tonic. Pathology arises from the professional activity of a person. Office workers (programmers, secretaries-assistants, accountants, etc.) cannot, due to the specifics of their profession, give up sedentary work. Tonic pains also sometimes occur in students and pupils. Such attacks last for a short time.

2. Clonic. The sign by which you can identify them is frequent muscle twitching. The main reason for their occurrence is damage to the nervous system of an organic nature. Clonic spasm of the back is dangerous because it can provoke paralysis.

3. Tonic-clonic. The sounded type of pathology in most cases means that a person has a serious illness. It may be epilepsy, in which the attack of tonic-clonic spasm lasts a long time.The attack is swift and frightening. In a person, the back bends into an arc, and after the end of the attack, it hurts for a long time interval.

Localization of back shots

At the place of their dislocation, the affected areas can be located in the following areas of the back:

1. Its upper part. The spasm of the back muscles in the thoracic region has different causes of formation. It is characterized by intense pain in the central area of ​​the back or in the shoulder blades.

2. Its lower part. Spasm of the back muscles in the lumbar spine is often diagnosed by specialists. In everyday life, it is called radiculitis and is in no hurry to visit a specialist.

Recurrent causes of muscle spasms in the back:

1. Problems with posture. In scoliosis, lordosis, and kyphosis, spasms of the muscles in the back occur when the tissues tighten in order to straighten the curved portion of the skeleton. The same process occurs during destruction in the articular cartilage during osteochondrosis and intervertebral hernia.

2. Pathological processes in the spinal cord. Such neurological diseases have a detrimental effect on nerve cells and contribute to the formation of inflammatory processes in muscle tissues. The pattern is repeated: the muscles tense up and provoke a spasm in the back.

3. The shock suffered. When prolactin, a stress hormone, is released, nerve endings and muscles become hypertonic. The more often people find themselves in critical situations, the more they are then worried about back cramps.

4. Serious injury. Injury to the back spine causes significant pain to the person. An alarm signal goes to the brain, and the body instantly connects all protective reserves. The result is a chain reaction. The tissues in the lesion are compressed in order to create a barrier against increased spasm, creating additional stress on the vessels and nerve endings. The result is a rapid increase in pain.

Separately, cases should be highlighted when spasm in the back occurs due to:

• neurological and mental disorders;

• problems with the bones of the pelvis;

• dysfunction of internal organs.

Provoking factors causing one-time spasm:

• performing hard physical work during the day;

• minor injury without health consequences;

• muscles weakened when loaded;

• hypothermia without signs of frostbite;

• sudden movements, turns or accelerated running.

Reasons for seeing a doctor immediately:

1. The duration of the attack. It should not last more than 2-3 days. Otherwise, we are talking about an inflammatory process in the body.

2. The intensity of the spasm. An alarming sign is an increase in pain after taking analgesics and antispasmodics. Emergency calls are the only help in this case.

3. Restriction in movement.Should alert the inability to move legs and arms. Move your hand towards the glass on the table

4. The appearance of additional symptoms. These include severe weakness, nausea, and numbness in the limbs.

Diagnosis of the disease:

1. Donation of blood for analysis. The specialist will need the results of the UAC and the decoding of its biochemical composition.

2. Fluorography. A standard procedure is required to identify chest abnormalities.

3. MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging is needed for detailed monitoring of the condition of the spinal column.

4. Electrocardiogram. It is prescribed in the presence of spasms in the thoracic region.

Prevention of sudden back cramps:

1. Regular stretching. It is important not to overdo it in your endeavors, so as not to damage the ligaments. For safety net, it is better to seek help from a specialist who will develop an individual complex for the patient.

2. Massage sessions. It is recommended to slightly stretch the chest, neck and shoulders when the back is numb. Regular massage from a professional will dramatically increase your chances of preventing painful cramps.

3. An active lifestyle. It is not necessary to immediately pick up a barbell or do a long-term cross. It is enough to purchase a subscription to the swimming pool, go for walks and do gymnastic exercises.

4. Change of employment.With weakened muscles, it is forbidden to work as a loader, miner and builder. To perform tasks with the use of power loads, special training is required.

5. Correct daily routine. You should correctly distribute your schedule between work and rest periods. With physical exertion or sedentary work, you need to devote a couple of minutes to a short break.

6. Rational menu. It is better to draw it up with the help of a specialist if you have back problems. In this case, the uniform rules for the diet are the inclusion of lean meat, dairy products, cereals, vegetables and fruits in the menu.

7. Tracking the water balance. With its lack, problems with dry skin will not be limited. To prevent muscle hypertonia, you should drink at least two liters of fluid per day. Alcohol is prohibited.

8. Water aerobics. A visit to the swimming pool should be made as rewarding as possible. Exercise in water is recommended even for pregnant women, so this method is absolutely safe for the back muscles.

nine.Safety net for sedentary work. The back will not bother those people who give it to stretch every half hour. If it is impossible to leave the office, it is enough to walk around the work area. When moving, rotational movements should be made with the neck, shoulders and arms.

10. Correct layout of the recreation and work area. A soft feather bed and voluminous pillows are the first enemies for the spine. At the first sign of back pain, you need to purchase an orthopedic mattress

First aid to oneself

If it is impossible to urgently visit a neurologist, you need to perform the following actions:

one.Lie on the bed. Any solid surface without depressions will do. Ideally, an orthopedic mattress should be used.

2. Correctly place your feet. The lower limbs are placed on a small roller. In its absence, any flat and solid object can be used as a support base.

3. Take a pill. With a strong spasm, No-shpa, Spazmolgon will do, and during moderate pain, Diclofenac will come in handy.

4.Massage the problem area. If possible, it is recommended to treat it with Kuznetsov’s applicator.

5. Put on the bandage. A corset will be needed for a person with a prolonged spasm if necessary to move. With a tight work schedule, you can use a corset on a rigid base.

6. Use contrasting compresses. They need to be changed every 15 minutes. You should monitor the reaction of the body during the procedure. For more relief from pain with a cold compress, it is recommended that you opt for it.

7. Stick to bed rest. Its maximum duration is 3 days. Otherwise, there is a likelihood of the onset of muscle atrophy formation.

Non-stop, if desired, block back spasms

In case of recurrence of the disease with severe muscle spasms in the back, it is recommended:

1. Refusal from exercise therapy. The recommendation is limited to the period of recurrence of the disease. The vibrating couch is also contraindicated at the time of exacerbation of the pathology.

2. Turning on the brake light. With excess body weight, it is impossible to independently control the plan for further treatment.

3. Refusal to plan pregnancy. In this case, the Russian roulette mechanism starts. Without checking – there will be a comparison with the reaction of the body. You cannot do without consulting a gynecologist with serious back pain.

How therapeutic methods work

Injections. With an injection, it is easier and faster to relieve severe pain.Of the analgesics, Baralgin is most often prescribed, but it is acquired by prescription. Amateurs are not recommended to administer the drug. It is better for the patient to seek medical help. You can replace Baralgin with Aspirin. With a low price and the ability to buy a medication without a prescription, the remedy helps to eliminate the inflammatory process, lower body temperature and alleviate a person’s condition. In case of spasm, which Aspirin and Baralgin are unable to block, Dexamethasone and Prednisolone are prescribed.In a critical situation, a blockade with Novocaine is used.

Pills. After consulting a doctor, the tension in the back is relieved by Mydocalm and Tizalud. For pain of moderate intensity, it is enough to take antispasmodics in the form of Spazmalgon. To relieve more serious discomfort, Diclofenac and Ortofen are prescribed. This form of release of the drug can cause pain and cramps in the stomach. The way out of the situation is the use of pain pills together with Omeprazole or Omega.

Ointments.It is not recommended to intensively treat an area with increased sensitivity with such a tool. For discomfort in the lumbar region, Radikulin is used (the second name is Valentin Dikul’s gel). During spasms in the spine, which radiate to the neck, Fastum-gel and Traumeel S.

Band-aids. They do not have a strong effect, but they are able to alleviate the symptoms of the disease. Patch therapy involves the use of warming patches (pepper), orthopedic stickers (Zb Pain Relief) and anesthetic plastic mass (Voltaren).

Abdominal pain

General . Abdominal pains range from dull or burning to sharp and shooting. Abdominal pain occurs with various diseases and conditions.

Pain that appears near the navel and moves to the lower right abdominal cavity may indicate appendicitis, inflammation of the appendix (an intestinal process). Most serious cases will require surgery to remove the appendix.With advanced appendicitis, the appendix may burst. If you experience severe pain or tenderness in the right lower abdomen, abdominal pain when walking, nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite, or fever, you should see your doctor immediately.

Pain in the lower left abdomen may be a symptom of diverticulitis. Diverticulitis occurs when small, spherical capsules called diverticula form in the walls of the colon, which subsequently become infected and inflamed.Other symptoms of diverticulitis include fever, nausea, vomiting, chills, seizures, and constipation. Treatment for diverticulitis usually involves clearing the colon of infections and inflammation. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics and / or pain relievers, a liquid diet, and bed rest for several days. In some cases, treatment for diverticulitis requires a hospital stay. If complications arise, surgery may be necessary. The best way to prevent diverticulitis is a diet rich in fiber.Dietary fiber promotes proper digestion and relieves pressure in the colon. Gradually increase the amount of fiber in your daily diet and drink plenty of fluids. Timely bowel movements can also help prevent diverticulitis. The accumulation of waste products from the digestive system causes an increase in pressure in the colon.

Acute pain in the right hypochondrium e, aggravated after eating, indicates the presence of a lesion of the gallbladder.Diseases of the gallbladder include stones and inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis). If complications arise, gallbladder damage can have other symptoms, along with pain in the peritoneum. These include: jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), severe fever, and chills. Sometimes people with gallstones experience no symptoms at all. If pain occurs regularly in the right hypochondrium, you should consult a doctor. Gallbladder pain attacks can be managed in a number of ways, from simply waiting (observing symptoms for a while, not receiving any treatment) to taking medications and even surgery.You can also reduce the symptoms of gallbladder disease by reducing the amount of fat in your diet.

Abdominal pain, relieved after a bowel movement and accompanied by diarrhea or constipation, may indicate irritable bowel syndrome, a common gastrointestinal tract disorder, the cause of which has not yet been established. When irritable bowel syndrome occurs, the walls of the intestines are compressed sometimes too much, sometimes too weakly, sometimes too slowly, and sometimes, on the contrary, too quickly.Symptoms of this disease include: bloating, increased gas production, slimy stools, a constant desire to empty the intestines.

This syndrome cannot be managed with surgical methods or drugs. However, worsening conditions can be prevented by drinking plenty of water, increasing the amount of fiber in the diet, reducing the amount of caffeine consumed, and increasing exercise.

Acute burning pain in the upper and middle parts of the abdomen (between the sternum and the navel) may indicate the presence of an ulcer.An ulcer is a wound that forms in the tissues of the stomach or upper intestine. There are many causes of ulcers. Smoking, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may play a role. An ulcer can also form if the stomach cannot protect itself from strong stomach acid. Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that lives in the stomach, can also cause ulcers. Stress and spicy foods cannot cause ulcers. Heartburn alone cannot indicate this disease.Severe pain like heartburn can also be caused by a less serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease.

In women, abdominal pain may indicate problems with the reproductive system. Pelvic pain that occurs every month before menstruation can indicate endometriosis, a condition in which tissue particles from the uterus move through the fallopian tubes and enter the ovaries, pelvis, bladder, and other organs. Soreness in the lower abdomen may indicate pelvic inflammation (infection of the tissues of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries).In women of childbearing age, an ectopic pregnancy can also cause sharp, sharp or stabbing pain in the peritoneum, accompanied by vaginal bleeding, an irregular menstrual cycle, and pain radiating to the shoulders. Ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids can also cause abdominal pain in women.

Other cases of abdominal pain include: urinary tract infections, food poisoning and allergies, hernia, kidney stones, and lactose intolerance.

Causes of abdominal pain In most cases, abdominal pain is caused by quite common causes, such as emotional distress, overeating or the flu.However, similar pain symptoms can be caused by more serious diseases. Only a doctor can clearly determine the cause of pain.

Symptoms

If you experience mild pain, appearing sporadically for less than 4 weeks, you can try to cope with the problem on your own.

It is recommended to consult a doctor for pain that occurs sporadically for more than 4 weeks.

Urgent medical attention is required for the following conditions:

– pain accompanied by fever, jaundice, dark urine, severe nausea or vomiting, light pasty stools;

– sharp sharp stabbing pain in the abdominal cavity, accompanied by vaginal bleeding, irregular menstrual cycle, pain radiating in the shoulders;

– severe persistent pain in the peritoneum after injury;

– unexpected very severe pain lasting more than 2 hours

Urgent hospitalization is required if the following signs appear :

– abdominal pain accompanied by unexpected bright red rectal bleeding or vomiting with blood or a substance similar to coffee grounds;

– dizziness, delirium, rapid pulse, cold clammy skin.

What You Can Do For Stomach Pain

Mild pain not associated with ulcer disease, diverticulitis, or gallbladder disease can be treated at home. Give your body enough time to rest. To relieve pain, take simple pain relievers or antispasmodics (drotaverine, paracetamol). Do not use acetylsalicylic acid or other anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine.

Do not use laxatives or give enemas.

What a doctor can do

To determine the cause of the pain, the doctor may ask you the following questions: “Describe the pain you feel” (spastic, sharp or dull), Is it persistent or intermittent? Where do you feel pain? Where did it appear? How long does it take? When does the pain start? (During your period? Does the pain get worse after eating?) More testing is likely to be needed.

Treatment will depend on the cause of the abdominal pain.

Head. surgical department Padashulya I.N.

90,000 “Why is there pain under the left shoulder blade in the back from the back?” – Yandex.Qu

Pain under the left shoulder blade is a common phenomenon that can occur after a sudden movement or due to an uncomfortable position of the body. They usually pass quickly and no longer bother you.

Constant discomfort under the scapula can be a symptom of a serious illness that requires immediate treatment.Especially do not underestimate this symptom if the pain radiates from the left to the sternum, or the left arm becomes numb.

From whether a person turned to a specialist for help on time, from its nature and location, an accurate diagnosis can be made, the direction of examinations can be chosen, as well as the necessary treatment can be selected in order to eliminate not only the disease itself, but also the causes of its occurrence.

Causes of pain under the left shoulder blade

What does this mean? There are a sufficient number of reasons for pain under the left shoulder blade in adults, they can be associated both with problems of the scapula itself, and with diseases of internal organs.Consider the most likely causes of this condition below.

Certain diseases of the musculoskeletal system may be accompanied by a painful symptom in the area of ​​the left scapula. Most often it manifests itself this way:

1. Osteochondrosis of the thoracic or cervical spine.
2. Intercostal neuralgia.
3. Traumatic injury to the scapula (compression injury of the suprascapular nerve).
4. Rib fracture.
5. Sprengel’s disease (scapula alata) – pterygoid scapula.
6. Myofascial syndrome.

Cardiological diseases. This is not to say that it hurts only in the area of ​​the left shoulder blade. The pain then goes to the left hand, then goes to the clavicle, then descends to the lower abdomen. Depending on the ailment, patients experience a feeling of shortness of breath, a feeling of cardiac arrest or a constriction of the throat. The chest at this time seems to them as constricted or seized with a feeling of heat. These are the following diseases:

1. Ischemic heart disease.

2. Myocardial infarction

   …

3. Pericarditis.
4. Angina pectoris (unstable, stable).
5. Mitral valve prolapse.
6. Less commonly – aortic aneurysm.

Constant pain under the left shoulder blade may indicate diseases of the bronchopulmonary system. At the same time, painful sensations are always directed towards the affected lung, they have an average intensity and aching character, localized under the left shoulder blade in one pain point.It could be:

1. Left-sided pneumonia.
2. Pleurisy (dry, left-sided).
3. Tracheobronchitis with autonomic dysfunction.
4. Acute bronchitis.
5. Abscess of the left lung.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract:

1. YABZH (Ulcus gastrica) – gastric ulcer.
2. Ulcus duodeni –

   duodenal ulcer

   …

3. Spasm of the esophagus.
4. GERD – gas esophageal reflux disease.
5. Rarely – exacerbation of pancreatitis.

Typical causes of pain under the left shoulder blade in terms of prevalence are as follows:

1. Cervical osteochondrosis, which manifests itself most often as one-sided pain at the bottom of the os occipitale – the occipital bone. The pain is aching in nature, increases with active head movements and constantly radiates under the scapula, into the arm.
2. Another disease characterized by pain under the left scapula is intercostal neuralgia.It is a frequent consequence of osteochondrosis and is manifested by lumbago and intense pain of a girdle nature, radiating to the right or left, including under the scapula.
3. PUD (gastric ulcer). The symptom is most often due to seasonality, depends on the nutritional factor and is characterized by paroxysmal, radiating pain.

Based on such a brief anatomical overview, all causes of pain under the left shoulder blade can be divided into two large groups:

1. Pain associated with pathology of internal organs (cardiovascular pathology, respiratory diseases, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and spleen).
2. Pain associated with pathology of the musculoskeletal system and muscle pain, including neurogenic in nature.

To find out why it hurts under the left shoulder blade, you should undergo a comprehensive examination, which, based on specific complaints and examination data, will be prescribed by the attending physician. After all, pain in different diseases will differ in nature, intensity and provoking factors.

Angina pectoris

Another cardiac disease can manifest itself as acute pain under the left shoulder blade – this is angina pectoris.With her, pain primarily occurs in the retrosternal region, then as if “spilled” to the left side. By the nature of the manifestation, they are sharp and constricting, disappear at rest and after taking nitroglycerin. To a lesser extent, validol helps patients.

In most cases, the disease is caused by atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. Angina attacks most often occur during physical and emotional stress, after sudden hypothermia or overheating of the body, alcohol intake, as well as spicy and heavy food.

Osteochondrosis

The most common cause of pain under the left scapula from the back from the back is osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, which is characterized by compression of the spinal nerve roots.

This ailment is characterized by a pulling, dull pain, often one-sided just below the occipital region. It can be both permanent and manifested by lumbago, which always radiates under the scapula on the affected side.A sharp increase in the symptom occurs with head movements, after a night’s sleep.

Often the result of prolonged stress on the neck. Also, patients note numbness in the hands, migraines, dizziness.

Pneumonia and pleurisy

In case of left-sided pneumonia (pneumonia), pain of moderate intensity, accompanied by a cough with sputum and wheezing in the lungs, will also bother in the area of ​​the scapula. At the same time, temperature “candles” are often noted.

Pleurisy (inflammation of the pleura) may be dry or purulent. Both types of this pathology are accompanied by severe pain when breathing, while the person protects the affected side: breathing becomes more shallow.

With purulent pleurisy, puncture is required, followed by analysis of the discharge and drainage of the pleural cavity.

Stomach ulcer

Stomach ulcer is a common disease that causes increasing pain under the left shoulder blade.Sensations gradually spread to the entire chest, nausea and vomiting appear. Severe pain in the back is observed after eating junk food: too salty, spicy and oily. Also noted:

• pallor of the skin.

90,041 nervous frightened state.

• cold sweat.
• blood clots in vomit (the main sign that an urgent need to call a doctor at home).

A person cannot move normally when painful sensations arise.Aching pain increases with any perfect movement. A sharp pain can be a signal that an exacerbation has occurred and you need to call an ambulance.

Intercostal neuralgia

This pathology often occurs in patients with complaints of pain under the left shoulder blade. In this case, the pain extends to one intercostal space, is accompanied by a feeling of numbness or tingling along the affected area, increases when tilted to the sick side, that is, to the left.In some cases, skin rashes or redness may occur along the inflamed intercostal nerve.

Trauma

Most often, pain caused by traumatic injuries of the shoulder blades occurs with a direct impact on the shoulder blades or when falling on the back. The pain syndrome is intense, especially during the first hours after the injury.

In the future, it appears or intensifies with movement, edema and swelling develop.Trauma pain can also be caused by a fracture of the scapula or ribs. Therefore, it is imperative to perform an X-ray.

Myocardial infarction

A heart attack is characterized by a sharp sharp pain under the left shoulder blade, which can also appear all over the left side of the body (in the left arm, left side of the neck).

The cause of an acute angina attack in a heart attack can be the most common emotional stress, which is why people with heart problems are advised not to be nervous.

Pain during a heart attack can be of a different nature – cutting, squeezing or pressing. But there are also non-standard cases when pain can manifest itself in the most unexpected place and in the most non-standard way, for example, in the peritoneal region.

Pericarditis

The disease is associated with inflammation of the serous membrane of the heart. With this disease, tachycardia often develops, hence the cause of pain in the left side of the back. The pain is sharp, but subside when the person is calm or when leaning forward.

This ailment is dangerous in that adhesions can form and organs contract along with the contraction of the heart. Also, calcium salts can be deposited in the pericardium of the heart, which leads to a hardening of the lining of the heart.

Psychosomatic diseases

Often, pain under the left shoulder blade is noted with psychological stress and diseases of a psychosomatic nature. The reasons lie in stress and emotional upheaval, which the body cannot cope with on its own and signals problems with the help of psychosomatic pain.

In addition to painful sensations in the back of the scapula in psychosomatics, the following accompanying symptoms may occur:

• heat;
• chest discomfort;

90,041 cramps in the throat;

• lack of air.

Diagnostics

To understand how to treat pain under the left scapula in the back from the back, you need to undergo a comprehensive examination to establish the exact cause of this symptom.

First of all it is:

1. Taking anamnesis.It is rather short, since pain under the left shoulder blade in the back is not considered a life-threatening pathology.
2. Acquaintance of the doctor with a detailed description of the nature of the pain.
3. Examination of the patient’s back.
4. Instrumental examination is carried out only in case of suspicion of acute infection, oncology, trauma and with severe neurological symptoms.

First of all, the doctor conducts a full diagnosis to exclude myocardial infarction, spinal oncology, neurological disorders that require urgent treatment.And only after that he decides how to treat this patient.

Which doctor should I go to?

Depending on how pain sensations arise, what are their characteristics and what they are associated with, you should choose a specialist to whom you will go for a consultation:

• Gastroenterologist – for pain associated with eating, the presence of dyspepsia.
• Therapist or pulmonologist – for pain, aggravated by breathing, accompanied by shortness of breath, cough, fever.
• Neurologist – for pain associated with movements, loads.
• Traumatologist – when indicating an injury preceding the onset of pain.
• Cardiologist – with a burning sensation behind the sternum with irradiation under the scapula, into the tongue, left arm.
• Psychologist and psychiatrist – for pain, the causes of which have not been found based on the results of a detailed examination, especially if there are other signs of psychosomatic disorders and neuroses.

Diseases and pains are much easier and safer to prevent than to cure.Even if there are no health problems and discomfort, you need to regularly visit a doctor and undergo a medical examination. If pains still appear, you cannot self-medicate, you should immediately contact a specialist in this area. By eliminating pain with pain relievers and without taking complex treatment, you contribute to the development of serious diseases of the heart, gastrointestinal tract or spine.

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Pain in the lower abdomen in men. Causes and treatment

Who should I contact? Start by visiting your urologist.

Most often, this symptom indicates problems of the male genital area.

If, according to the results of the examination, urological problems are not found, the doctor may recommend a consultation with a neurologist, proctologist, gastroenterologist, nephrologist, surgeon, oncologist.

Diagnostics of pain in the lower abdomen in men

Urologists of the “Alan Clinic” in Kazan recommend, first of all, to undergo 2 types of ultrasound examinations – ultrasound diagnostics of the bladder and TRUS of the prostate.

Additionally, the doctor can prescribe laboratory tests (blood, urine, smear).

If a man is found to have any infectious disease, it is recommended to simultaneously treat both sexual partners. In our medical center, in such cases, there are discounts for examination and treatment by a gynecologist for the “second half”.

How to treat acute lower abdominal pain in men?

Here you can undergo complex treatment in a day hospital. You can start it on the day of the first admission, immediately after the examination.

Anesthetize

Already in the first days of treatment, you will undergo procedures that will help:

• to get rid of cramps, burning sensations, discomfort,
• to normalize urination (if you are worried about frequent, painful, difficult urination).

That is, the very first task that a doctor decides is to improve the patient’s quality of life by relieving him of the most severe symptoms.

Eliminate the cause of pain

When painful sensations become less noticeable, procedures will be prescribed for:

• removal of the inflammatory process,
• elimination of infections (if found),
• normalization of hormonal levels,
• improvement of potency.

Treatment in Urology “Alan Clinic” – day hospital

As in a hospital stay, everything you need (including drugs and consumables) is provided at the clinic, and their cost is included in the total cost of the therapeutic course.

We work seven days a week, from 7:30 to 20:00, so you can always choose the most convenient time to receive the procedures. Therefore, most of our patients are treated on the job. However, if necessary, the patient can be issued a sick leave.

The course of complex therapy may include several types of procedures. All of them are carried out directly in the clinic, under the constant supervision of your attending doctor:

Physiotherapy

Modern devices for laser and magnetic therapy allow you to quickly and safely relieve pain syndrome without the use of anesthetic pills. And when taking anti-inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy can significantly speed up the healing process and preserve the results of therapy for a long time.

Drug therapy

Drugs (anti-inflammatory, hormonal, antibacterial) can be prescribed in the form of tablets for oral administration, intramuscular injections and / or intravenous drips.

Shockwave therapy

Improves blood circulation. Accelerates tissue regeneration. It has an excellent analgesic effect in male inflammation. Helps to restore an erection at any age.

Ozone therapy

Intravenous administration of active oxygen.It helps to improve metabolism and increase immunity.

Prostate massage

Effectively relieves pain syndrome, stimulates blood circulation and resorption of seals in the prostate gland.

Pain as a symptom of urological disease

Pain is one of the most frequent and important symptoms of urological diseases. Pain can be localized in the lumbar region, hypochondrium, above the bosom, in the perineum, genitals.They vary in intensity (acute, dull), periodicity (constant, seizures, arising periodically), type of irradiation, may or may not depend on the position of the body.
When questioning older children, it is possible to clearly determine the localization of pain and its irradiation. Younger patients for the most part cannot describe the pain that has arisen and express them by crying, fright, whims. At the same time, pain syndrome with irradiation to the abdominal region in children of this age group often occurs with diseases not associated with the genitourinary system or with surgical diseases.Therefore, the correct interpretation of pain in children is possible only when comparing with other symptoms, among which urination disorders play an important role.
Dull persistent pain in the lumbar region is most typical for chronic pyelonephritis, hydronephrosis, sometimes pyonephrosis, non-occlusive kidney stones, including coral stones. Irradiation of pain is little expressed or absent. Changing the position of the body does not affect the intensity of pain caused by these diseases, which makes it possible to differentiate them from osteochondrosis of the thoracic and lumbosacral spine.Sometimes pain during movement, radiating to the groin and to the anterior-inner thigh, the forced position of the patient (scoliosis towards the lesion, flexion of the lower limb in the hip joint) can be a manifestation of paranephritis, which has spread to the pelvis and through the obturator opening to the thigh.
Renal colic is an acute painful attack caused by a sharp violation of the outflow of urine from the kidney due to acute occlusion of the pelvis or ureter. The mechanism of pain is associated with a sharp increase in intralocal pressure, which causes backflow of urine contained in the pelvis and cups into the renal tissue and its vessels (pyelotubular and pyelovenous reflux).This leads to pronounced edema of the parenchyma, overstretching of the kidney capsule and irritation of the baroreceptors, followed by the transmission of a nerve impulse to the pain centers of the subcortical structures of the brain.
Irritation of receptors in the vessels of the renal parenchyma, the wall of the pelvis and around it at the hilum of the kidney is of lesser importance. The latter react to the stretching of the pelvis and the sweating of urine into the parapelvic tissue. This explains the renal localization of pain at any level of obstruction from the pelvis to the orifice of the ureter.Rapid stretching of the pelvis leads to a sharp reflex contraction of its muscles and the muscles of the ureter (spastic wave), which also triggers the pain reflex. Pain impulses from the kidney, upper and middle third of the ureter are conducted along sympathetic nerves through the aortic-renal ganglion, celiac ganglion and the small celiac nerve. Irritations from the distal part of the ureter are transmitted along parasympathetic nerves to the aortic-renal ganglion, testicular plexus, hypogastric and pelvic nerve plexuses. Places of pain irradiation are associated with the localization of calculus in the ureter: the mesogastric and iliac region – the upper third of the ureter, the groin area – the middle third, the genitals and perineum – the lower third of the ureter.
The causes of renal colic are very diverse – obstructing stones of the kidneys and upper urinary tract, blood clots, accumulations of mucus and pus, sharp bends of the ureter with nephroptosis, necrotic masses with kidney tuberculosis, necrotic papillitis, tumor decay, which suddenly occlude the lumen of the urinary tract. Violation of the outflow of urine from the kidney, leading to renal colic, can also occur with allergic edema of the ureter. Intermittent hydronephrosis in children can also lead to acute pain.In this case, an attack of renal colic in most cases is short-lived, occurs suddenly, without previous symptoms. The penetration of small (up to 1.0 cm) stones from the renal pelvis or its cups into the ureter causes its spasm and an acute violation of the outflow of urine from the kidney, which leads to renal colic, while larger kidney stones are much less likely to cause the development of this pathological condition. During colic, it is often possible to palpate an enlarged kidney, the size of which decreases as the pain subsides.
The clinical picture of renal colic is characterized by an attack of acute pain in the lower back and lateral parts of the abdomen with pronounced irradiation to the area of ​​the inner thigh, groin and genitals. The patient’s restless behavior is extremely typical: he rushes about, cannot find a position in which the pain decreases, the abdomen is sharply painful on palpation and tense in the hypochondrium. If the obstruction of the ureter occurred in its lower part, then renal colic is accompanied by increased urination or pain in the urethra.Renal colic is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, which is caused by irritation of the solar plexus and peritoneum due to the close connection of the renal and celiac (solar) nerve plexuses.
The duration of an attack of renal colic is from several minutes to several hours. Sometimes the pain causes a fainting or collaptoid state, painful shock.
In most children, an attack of renal colic does not last long (10-15 minutes), sometimes accompanied by an increased urge to urinate (pollakiuria).Pain in renal colic in children is not severe and quickly relieved after taking a warm bath or prescribing drugs with an antispasmodic effect.
Pathological changes in urine in renal colic are different: from minor proteinuria, erythro- and leukocyturia to macrohematuria. However, with complete obstruction of the ureter of the affected kidney, urine from it does not enter the bladder, and urine analysis from the contralateral kidney may be completely normal. Therefore, for reliable confirmation of renal colic, it is necessary to perform an ultrasound examination of the kidneys.Determined by ultrasound, the expansion of the pyelocaliceal system on the affected side is an indirect sign of occlusion of the upper urinary tract.
Renal colic is recognized by a typical pain attack. Often, the already characteristic restless behavior of the patient makes it possible to suspect renal colic. Despite the brightness of the clinical picture, it must be remembered that under the mask of renal colic, acute surgical diseases that require urgent surgery can be hidden. Therefore, renal colic must be differentiated from acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction, acute appendicitis, perforated gastric ulcer, mesenteric vascular thrombosis, ovarian cyst torsion, ectopic pregnancy, inflammation of the uterine appendages.Ultrasound plays an important role in the differential diagnosis of renal colic and acute surgical diseases. In case of acute pain in the scrotum, examination and palpation of the external genital organs are necessary for the differential diagnosis of renal colic and acute epididymitis, orchitis or torsion of the spermatic cord.
The appearance of pain in the lumbar region during urination is a characteristic symptom of the throwing of urine from the bladder into the renal pelvis (vesicoureteral reflux). Most often, this symptom is observed in childhood: the child cries and complains of pain in the lumbar region during urination, but calms down after it ends.Sometimes two-stage urination is noted: a few minutes after emptying the bladder, patients again feel the urge to urinate, after which they excrete a small amount of urine without pain.
Pain in the ureter region spreads from top to bottom – from the lumbar region along the right or left side of the abdomen to the bladder and genitals (pain irradiation).
Pain in the bladder area can be constant or associated with the act of urination – before, during or at the end of it.Pain impulses from the bladder come along the somatic nerves of the abdominal wall. Pain may occur in the bladder area during movement and stop at rest (typical in the presence of stones in the bladder). Intensity – from a feeling of slight heaviness above the bosom to severe pain that does not stop day or night. The pain can radiate to the perineum, anus and the glans penis.
Most often, pain in the bladder is associated with inflammation. In this case, in addition to pain, there is an increase in urination.
Pain in the urethra may be associated with inflammation, injury, discharge of salts or calculus. It can occur during urination or be persistent. When urinating, pain occurs at the beginning or at the end, or continues throughout the entire act. The intensity of pain in the urethra can vary from sharp and pronounced in acute urethritis to a slight “tingling” and burning sensation in chronic inflammation of the urethra.Pain not associated with the act of urination may be due to colliculitis (inflammation of the seminal tubercle). Inflammation of the seminal tubercle can also cause pain in the urethra during and after intercourse.
Pain in the prostate gland is transmitted along the sacral nerves (parasympathetic innervation, LIV-SIV segments) and appears in acute and chronic inflammation of the prostate and seminal vesicles, prostate cancer, and rectal diseases.In chronic prostatitis and vesiculitis, patients complain of aching pains with irradiation to the perineum, sacrum, testicle, penis, rectum. With hypothermia, prolonged sitting, for example, during a car trip, after taking strong alcoholic beverages, beer, and in some patients, even after intercourse, the pain may increase. In acute prostatitis, there is a sharp pain radiating to the anus, perineum, sometimes the pain is pulsating in nature, increases with defecation.With prostate cancer, painful sensations appear under the bosom, in the anus, sacrum, lower back, thighs, there is a feeling of pressure on the perineum. Lumbosacral pain can also be a consequence of the metastasis of prostate cancer to the bone.
Pain in the scrotum radiating to the groin, sacrum, lumbar region is characteristic of diseases and injuries of the external genital organs. Pain impulses from the testicle and its epididymis are transmitted along the sacral, femoral-genital nerves and the testicular plexus.Severe pain in the scrotum, the intensity of which increases with movement, occurs with acute inflammation of the testicle and its epididymis, with torsion of the spermatic cord, with torsion and necrosis of the suspensions (hydatids) of the testicle and epididymis. Pain in oncological and chronic inflammatory diseases of the external genital organs are dull in nature, patients feel heaviness in the scrotum. It must be remembered that pain in diseases of the kidneys, bladder, prostate and seminal vesicles can radiate to the external genital organs, and if the pathology of the scrotum organs is excluded, it is necessary to examine other organs of the genitourinary system.
Aching pains in the penis, combined with its curvature, are observed in Peyronie’s disease (fibroplastic induration of the penis). Inflammation of the corpora cavernosa and the glans penis (cavernitis and balanoposthitis), infringement of the head by the foreskin (paraphimosis) and “fracture” of the penis (rupture of its tunica albuginea), persistent erection, not associated with sexual arousal (priapism), lead to severe pain in the penis.