What is the cause of pressure and pain in the lower abdomen (abdomen)/pelvis and lower back?

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Differential Diagnosis for Pressure and Pain in Lower Abdomen/Pelvis and Lower Back

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Given the symptoms of pressure and pain in the lower abdomen/pelvis and lower back, a UTI is a common and likely cause, especially in women. The pain is often described as a dull ache or pressure in the pelvic area and can radiate to the lower back.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Menstrual Cramps: For women, menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) can cause significant pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis, which may also be felt in the lower back. The pain is typically cyclic and associated with the menstrual cycle.
  • Ovarian Cysts: Ovarian cysts can cause pelvic pain and pressure, which may radiate to the lower back. The pain can be constant or intermittent and may be associated with menstrual irregularities.
  • Constipation: Severe constipation can cause lower abdominal and pelvic pressure, as well as lower back pain due to the strain on the abdominal and back muscles.
  • Musculoskeletal Strain: Strain in the muscles of the lower back or pelvis can cause pain and pressure in these areas, often due to overuse, poor posture, or injury.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Ectopic Pregnancy: Although less common, an ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that must be considered, especially in women of childbearing age who present with pelvic pain and pressure. The pain can be severe and is often accompanied by vaginal bleeding.
  • Appendicitis: Appendicitis can cause lower abdominal pain that may radiate to the lower back. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis, as appendicitis can lead to serious complications if not promptly treated.
  • Kidney Stones: Kidney stones can cause severe pain in the lower back and abdomen, often radiating from the flank to the groin. The pain can be intermittent and may be associated with nausea, vomiting, and urinary frequency.
  • Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis, an inflammation of the diverticula in the colon, can cause lower abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by changes in bowel habits, fever, and nausea.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Endometriosis: While not the first consideration, endometriosis can cause chronic pelvic pain and pressure, which may also be felt in the lower back. The pain is often cyclic but can be constant and is associated with menstrual irregularities and infertility.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs and can cause severe pelvic pain, fever, and vaginal discharge. It's a rare but important diagnosis to consider due to its potential for long-term complications.
  • Ovarian Torsion: Ovarian torsion is a rare but emergency condition where the ovary twists around its ligaments, cutting off blood supply. It causes severe, sudden pelvic pain and is more common in women with ovarian cysts.

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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