MEDICAL DICTIONARY

Table of Contents

Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain refers to discomfort or pain originating in the abdomen, the region between the chest and pelvis. It can vary in intensity and nature, ranging from mild discomfort to sharp, severe pain. Abdominal pain is a common symptom with various potential causes, from benign conditions such as indigestion to serious medical emergencies like appendicitis or gastrointestinal perforation.

Types of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can be classified based on its characteristics and location:

By Location

  • Upper Abdominal Pain: Associated with conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gallbladder diseases.
  • Lower Abdominal Pain: Commonly related to issues like appendicitis, diverticulitis, or gynecological conditions.
  • Right or Left-Sided Pain: Often associated with specific organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys.

By Duration

  • Acute Abdominal Pain: Sudden onset, lasting for hours or days (e.g., appendicitis, intestinal obstruction).
  • Chronic Abdominal Pain: Persistent or recurrent pain lasting for weeks or longer (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pancreatitis).

By Nature of Pain

  • Sharp or Stabbing Pain: May indicate an organ rupture or perforation.
  • Dull, Aching Pain: Common in inflammation or distension (e.g., hepatitis, intestinal blockage).
  • Cramping Pain: Common in gastrointestinal infections or menstrual cramps.

Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can arise from various organs and systems, including the gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, and reproductive organs:

 Gastrointestinal Causes

  • Indigestion (Dyspepsia): Often due to overeating or consuming spicy foods.
  • Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines due to infection.
  • Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, often presenting with sharp pain in the lower right abdomen.
  • Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause burning pain.
  • Intestinal Obstruction: Blockage in the intestines leading to cramping pain.

Hepatobiliary Causes

  • Gallstones: Can cause biliary colic, a sharp pain in the right upper abdomen.
  • Liver Diseases: Conditions like hepatitis or liver abscess can cause dull pain in the right upper quadrant.

Urological Causes

  • Kidney Stones: Sharp, radiating pain often felt in the flank or lower abdomen.
  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): May cause lower abdominal pain and a burning sensation during urination.

Gynecological Causes

  • Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Common cause of lower abdominal pain in women.
  • Ovarian Cysts or Ectopic Pregnancy: Can cause sharp, localized pain.
  • Endometriosis: A chronic condition causing severe menstrual pain due to tissue growth outside the uterus.

Other Causes

  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): A life-threatening condition causing severe, tearing pain in the abdomen and back.
  • Hernias: Protrusion of organs or tissues through weak spots in the abdominal muscles.
  • Trauma: Direct injury to the abdomen can cause internal bleeding and pain.

Symptoms Associated with Abdominal Pain

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Bloating and gas
  • Fever (in cases of infection)
  • Blood in stool or vomit (in serious conditions)
  • Changes in appetite or weight

Diagnosis of Abdominal Pain

  • Medical History and Physical Examination:
    • Assessing the location, nature, duration, and triggers of pain.
    • Palpation to detect tenderness, masses, or guarding.
  • Imaging Studies:
    • Ultrasound: Useful for detecting gallstones, cysts, or fluid accumulation.
    • CT Scan: Helps identify more complex conditions like appendicitis, tumors, or abscesses.
  • Laboratory Tests:
    • Blood tests to check for infections, liver function, and inflammatory markers.
    • Urine analysis for detecting urinary tract infections or kidney stones.
    • Stool analysis for detecting gastrointestinal infections or bleeding.

Treatment of Abdominal Pain

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

  • Medications:
    • Antacids or proton-pump inhibitors for acid-related conditions.
    • Antibiotics for infections.
    • Pain relievers and anti-spasmodics for cramps and discomfort.
  • Lifestyle Modifications:
    • Avoiding trigger foods (spicy, fatty foods) in cases of gastritis or ulcers.
    • Staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet.
  • Surgical Intervention:
    • Required for emergencies like appendicitis, perforations, or ectopic pregnancy.
    • Hernia repair for protrusions causing pain.

Complications of Abdominal Pain

  • Untreated appendicitis can lead to perforation and peritonitis.
  • Bowel obstruction can cause ischemia and necrosis.
  • Prolonged gastrointestinal bleeding may lead to anemia or shock.

Prevention

  • Regular, balanced meals to prevent acid reflux and indigestion.
  • Adequate hydration and fiber intake to prevent constipation.
  • Timely medical intervention for infections and chronic conditions.
References
  1. Talley, N. J., & O’Connor, S. (2014). Clinical Examination: A Systematic Guide to Physical Diagnosis.
  2. Kumar, P., & Clark, M. (2020). Kumar and Clark’s Clinical Medicine.
  3. Wikipedia contributors. “Abdominal Pain.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link.
  4. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Abdominal Pain: Causes and Treatment.” Mayo Clinic Health Information.