Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms with which patients seek medical help. Although it can sometimes result from a minor problem such as overeating or gas, in many cases it signals a emergency conditionwhich requires immediate medical intervention.
Never self-medicate for new-onset abdominal pain
One of the biggest risk behaviors is the attempt to self-medicate - intake of painkillers, antispasmodics or "home methods" without a clear diagnosis. This may masks the symptoms, make it difficult to make a correct diagnosis and even delay life-saving treatment.
When new or progressive abdominal pain occurs, it is imperative to make examination by a specialist in Internal Medicine or Surgeon.
Main sources of abdominal pain
Abdominal pain can originate from various organs located in the abdominal cavity. Among the most common are:
- Stomach and oesophagus - gastritis, ulcer, reflux, perforation
- Liver and gallbladder - hepatitis, gallstones, cholecystitis
- Pancreas - acute or chronic pancreatitis
- Small and large intestine - colitis, ileus, diverticulitis
- Kidney and urinary tract - stones, pyelonephritis, infections
In some cases the pain can be broadcast to other parts of the body - for example to waist or backwhich is often seen in renal and biliary crises.
When abdominal pain is an emergency condition
Immediate medical attention is needed if pain:
- е strong and suddenfor no apparent reason
- get strengthens progressively
- is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, bloating, jaundice or collapse
- restricts movements and forces the patient to stand in a certain posture
- is related to retention of gases and feces
Such symptoms can be an expression of serious diseases such as:
- Appendicitis
- Acute cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
- Acute pancreatitis
- Perforation of bowel or stomach
- Intestinal obstruction (ileus)
Important: even a heart attack can manifest as abdominal pain
It is not uncommon in some patients, especially the elderly and women, the heart attack run without the typical chest pain, and with complaints from discomfort or heaviness in the upper abdomen. It is therefore always important to make electrocardiogram (ECG) with vague pain in this area.
Necessary examinations to clarify the diagnosis
After the clinical examination, the doctor may appoint:
- Blood tests and biochemistry
- Ultrasound examination (ultrasonography)
- X-ray of abdomen
- Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
These studies help to the rapid clarification of the cause and determining the most appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Abdominal pain should never be underestimated. Although it may be due to minor causes, it is often the first symptom of a serious disease. Timely consultation with a doctor and proper diagnosis can save a life.
