Question: I was diagnosed in 5/2015 from my Ortho (insurance stopped covering him) with pubic symphysis instability with cartilage damage. My entire pelvis is cracked with arthritis.This is a post-traumatic injury from a prior auto accident 7.5 years ago. I broke my pelvis & hips in the accident (treated conservatively), and it resulted in osteitis causing further damage. Problem: I've developed severe abdominal pain, bloating & distention, hard & painful to urinate, leakage, pain at bladder, painful rectum & fecal releases somewhat constricted. Pubis is swollen & hurts, Stabbing pains in abdomen that stab/shoot up to my belly button, skin at abdomen tender to the touch, burning from urethra to rectum;The pain also radiates to my lower extremities & feet. I notice all of the above (except for lower extr radiating pain; I have spine issues as well. I've been fused L4-S1 & bilateral SI joint dysfunction. I've was fused at my left SI joint 2/2015; A few months later, I noticed my swelling, and it's progressing. I've had a hysterectomy 8 years ago & appendix out in 1991. Question: Should I go to the ER for my severe abdominal pain & distention, or deal with it at home. It's getting worse & worse. I wasn't leaking before. Doesn't prolonged urinary retention affect the kidneys? I'm very worried about that & the severe pain . Help!

Thank you Dr. I absolutely don't go to the ER unless it's a last resort. I needed some validation whether I should go or not. I just know it's not normal. My abdomen is swollen to a 6-mos baby bump. Never in my life have I even had more than a pooch, so the average person would be right on it. I should have to.

You're right, it may be associated with another condition; however, it correlates with a severe case of pubic symphysis instability such as mine. Hopefully it's nothing more than that. I'm going first thing in the morning, as I can't tolerate prolonged sitting.

Thank you for your response.

Sincerely, XXXXXXX xxxxxxxxx