| Details | Diagnosis:
Acute abdominal pain is a sudden onset of pain in the abdomen that may be caused by a wide range of conditions, from benign to life-threatening. The evaluation begins with a thorough history (onset, location, character, radiation, associated symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, urinary changes, or fever) and physical examination (inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation). Key clues include location-specific pain (e.g., right lower quadrant for appendicitis, right upper quadrant for cholecystitis). Initial laboratory tests often include CBC, serum electrolytes, liver function tests, amylase/lipase, urinalysis, and pregnancy test in women of reproductive age. Imaging such as ultrasound, X-ray, or CT scan may be required to confirm diagnosis and assess complications.
Common causes include appendicitis, cholecystitis, bowel obstruction, perforated peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, ectopic pregnancy, and renal colic.
Management:
Management is guided by the underlying cause and patient stability. Initial supportive care involves ensuring airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs), establishing IV access, providing oxygen if needed, and monitoring vitals. Analgesia (opioids or NSAIDs) is administered without delaying diagnosis. Fluid resuscitation with crystalloids is started for dehydration or shock. Specific treatment may involve:
Surgical intervention for conditions like appendicitis, perforations, or bowel obstruction.
Antibiotics for suspected infections (e.g., cholecystitis, perforated viscus).
Medical management for conditions like pancreatitis (bowel rest, fluids, analgesia) or renal colic (hydration, analgesics).
Gynecological emergencies like ectopic pregnancy require urgent surgical or medical management.
Early recognition and timely referral to surgery or specialist care are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality. |
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