Question: Hello. I was wondering what would cause ongoing, minor cramping pain/discomfort (it fluctuates) in the lower left side under the ribs? I've experienced this for the past month, and have had a history with possible IBS (IBS hasn't bothered me in a yr) Could this be an ulcer? I also socially smoke about 1 pack of cigarettes a week (which I plan on quitting).
I have experienced some bright red blood in my stools for the first time two days ago but haven't had any since. I constantly feel bloated, have had some indigestion, a loss of appetite, have been burping more often (including trapped wind) and have recently experienced a minor crampy discomfort shooting to my left side of my back, including a possible low grade fever today (unconfirmed). I have an appointment with my doctor Tuesday, but is there any emergency need at this point? My doctor's nurse told me yesterday over the phone that I should go to the emergency room, as I could have gastrointestinal bleeding, however, I do not have insurance at the moment and do not feel (based on my bodilyy instincts and from dealing with the minimal crampy pain for the past month) it is an emergency.... That's why I'm waiting until my appointment on Tuesday. Meanwhile, I wanted to get a second opinion because my anxiety about what could be wrong is trying to get the best of me during the waiting period before I see my doctor. Any help/advice would be appreciated. Thank you,
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