In medicine, “acute abdomen” refers to a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever. Acute abdomen is a medical emergency and requires urgent evaluation and treatment.
There are many potential causes of acute abdomen, including:
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas.
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder.
- Diverticulitis: Inflammation of small pouches that form in the wall of the colon.
- Perforated ulcer: A hole in the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
- Bowel obstruction: A blockage in the intestines.
- Ectopic pregnancy: A pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus.
Diagnosis of acute abdomen typically involves a physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment may involve surgery, antibiotics, pain relief, or other interventions depending on the underlying cause.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of acute abdomen are crucial to prevent complications such as sepsis, bowel perforation, or organ damage. If you experience sudden and severe abdominal pain, seek immediate medical attention.
