Acute abdomen

 

Acute abdomen/ Abdominal pain

Definition:-

Sudden or gradual onset of severe abdominal pain that may persist for several hours. Pain may be located in any quadrant of the abdomen. Other symptoms include Nausea, vomiting and appearing ill.

Causes:-

Infections, inflammation, bleeding, blood flow blockages, obstructions, perforations, endocrine and metabolic issues, and hematologic problems.

Gastrointestinal causes

• Sudden onset of diffuse abdominal pain.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Constipation/obstipation.
• Diffuse abdominal guarding, rigidity, and rebound tenderness.
• Absent bowel sounds.
• Loss of liver dullness on RUQ percussion.

Common causes of acute abdomen:-

1. appendicitis, 

2. diverticulitis,

3. cholecystitis,

4. constipation, 

5. diarrhea, 

6. food allergies, 

7. food poisoning,

8. Gallstone and

9. Renal stone etc.

Symptoms of acute abdomen:-

·         Sudden and severe abdominal pain

·         Nausea and/or vomiting

·         Fever

·         Bloating

·         Diarrhea or constipation

·         Changes in bowel habits

·         Abdominal tenderness

·         Rapid heart rate

·         Difficulty passing stool or gas

·         Sweating

Complication of acute abdomen:-

• Organ dysfunction

Damage to organs like the liver, kidneys, pancreas, or intestines can lead to acute liver failure, acute kidney injury, or pancreatic necrosis.

• Bowel obstruction

A partial or complete blockage of the intestines can lead to vomiting, dehydration, abdominal distension, and ischemia of the intestines.

• Hemorrhage

Internal bleeding can be associated with severe abdominal pain. Untreated hemorrhage can lead to organ damage and hypovolemic shock.

• Organ perforation

A rupture or perforation of organs like the gallbladder, appendix, or intestines can lead to sepsis, peritonitis, or abscess formation.

• Chronic abdominal pain

Acute abdomen can sometimes lead to chronic abdominal pain or functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Categories: Acute abdomen