Question 1

I've been feeling a small lump on the left side of my body just below the rib cage. It's not visible but I can feel it when I touch that area. It sometimes causes a bit of discomfort, although most of the time I don't really notice it. It's been there for six months now and hasn't changed in size, which is a bit concerning. I've also gained some weight over the last year, going from 55 to 70, and I don't smoke or drink. Is this something I should be worried about?

Accepted Answer

It is important to consider various possibilities. One potential cause could be a lipoma, which is a noncancerous growth of fat cells. Another possibility could be a benign cyst or a hernia. However, without a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, it is difficult to provide a definitive diagnosis. I recommend you consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

Question 2

I'm kind of worried because I think I swallowed a small chicken bone while eating yesterday. It doesn't hurt right now, but I'm not sure what to do. I've tried gargling and even eating a banana to see if it helps, but nothing's really working. Should I be doing something else, or is this a wait-it-out kind of thing? How serious could this be if it doesn't feel painful?

Accepted Answer

In this case, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent any complications. In the meantime, you can try eating soft foods like yogurt or pudding to see if it helps dislodge the bone. However, if the bone is still stuck, do not delay in seeking medical help. I recommend you to go to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Question 3

I'm dealing with some gas that's been trapped in my chest and upper back on the left side for the past two days, and it's making my chest feel really heavy. I've been taking pantoprazole 40mg to help with the gas since then, but it's just not clearing up this heaviness in my chest. Is there any medicine you can recommend that I can take right now? I already took pantoprazole at 8:30 am and had breakfast around 9:30 am. Would really appreciate some advice on what I can do next.

Accepted Answer

Episiotomy Complication and Painful Growth

_Possible Diagnosis_

1. _Episiotomy scar tissue formation_: The painful growth might be a result of abnormal scar tissue formation.
2. _Bartholin's gland cyst or abscess_: The growth could be related to the Bartholin's gland, which is located near the vaginal opening.
3. _Vulvar vestibulitis or vulvodynia_: Chronic pain and discomfort in the vulvar region could be contributing to the painful growth.

_Recommended Actions_

1. _Consult a gynecologist or a vulvar specialist_: Schedule an appointment with a gynecologist or a vulvar specialist to evaluate the growth and determine the best course of treatment.
2. _Biopsy or imaging tests_: Your doctor may recommend a biopsy or imaging tests (e.g., ultrasound or MRI) to determine the nature of the growth.
3. _Pain management_: Your doctor can help manage your pain with medication or other interventions.

_Possible Treatment Options_

1. _Surgical removal of the growth_: Depending on the diagnosis, surgical removal of the growth might be necessary.
2. _Medications for pain and infection_: Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage pain, infection, or inflammation.
3. _Physical therapy or pelvic floor rehabilitation_: Physical therapy or pelvic floor rehabilitation might be recommended to address any underlying pelvic floor dysfunction.

_Expert Consultation_

Consider consulting a gynecologist or a vulvar specialist with expertise in managing complex vulvar conditions. Some possible resources to find a specialist include:

I had a Nissan fundoplication 360 wrap done but the day after surgery the nurse gave me a large combiflam tablet which I swallowed whole without crushing it. Ever since then I'm experiencing reflux just like before the surgery - could that big pill have loosened my GE junction sphincter again?

Take all prescribed medicines as directed: Until you can swallow easily, take liquid medicines. If you are given pills, crush them and swallow them with liquids. But some pills can't or shouldn't be crushed.

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