User:Mr. Ibrahem/Abdominal pain
Stomach aches / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Abdominal pain, also known as a stomach ache, is a symptom of discomfort anywhere in the abdominal region.[4] It can be localized in one of the four quadrants or the abdomen or occur diffusely.[3] Other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation may be present.[3][5] It may be divided into pain of sudden onset (acute) and long term pain (chronic).[1]
Abdominal pain | |
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Other names | Stomach ache, tummy ache, belly ache, belly pain, gut ache |
Abdominal pain can be characterized by the region it affects | |
Specialty | General surgery |
Types | Acute, chronic[1] |
Causes | Common: Gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome[2] Serious: Appendicitis, perforated stomach ulcer, pancreatitis, ruptured diverticulitis, ovarian torsion, volvulus, ruptured aortic aneurysm, lacerated spleen or liver, ischemic bowel[3] |
Common causes include gastroenteritis and irritable bowel syndrome.[2] About 15% of people have a more serious underlying condition such as appendicitis, gall bladder disease, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, perforated peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, ovarian torsion, volvulus, diabetic ketoacidosis, diverticulitis, ischemic bowel, or ectopic pregnancy.[2][3] In babies necrotizing enterocolitis, vulvulus, and intussuception should be considered.[3] In a third of cases the exact cause is unclear.[3]
Diagnosis may be based on the history of symptoms, examination, blood work, and medical imaging.[3] An ECG may be done to rule out a heart attack.[3] Treatment may include intravenous fluids and pain management.[3] Depending on the underlying cause surgery may be required.[3] About 10% of people in the emergency department are there for abdominal pain.[3]