Why does swelling in the hip seen after lifting heavy tiles?

Question

Hi doctor,

First, let me clarify that I have been to a doctor for this problem already. But, the clinic is closed right now and I will not be able to get the diagnosis for a couple of days. But, waiting without knowing the cause is troubling me. So, I am asking for my peace of mind and also to have a second opinion. I lifted some heavy boxes of floor tiles a little over a week ago. Since then, I got a swelling to my left side between the hip and ribs and to my abdominal area. My doctor noted that those areas felt hard and said it might be fluid buildup. I am done with my x-rays now, but do not know the results of it. The swelling has not gone up or down since then. There is no pain, but sometimes there is a pressure, as if I am wearing a belt too tight. The swelling is most obvious when I stand. When lying down or wearing pants, it looks almost normal. Bodily functions have been normal. I do not have any diarrhea, unusual stool, vomiting, and so on. What do you think it could be? Thank you for your time.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com. It appears that you have an over use injury to your abdominal muscles. This happened during the heavy tile lifting. It could be abdominal muscle sprain, muscle strain, or inflammation. Less likely but ventral hernia is a possibility. Cold compressions. Ibuprofen 600 mg three times a day with food (available over-the-counter in 200 mg pills). Avoid excessive exertion that requires the use of abdominal muscles.