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(Acute Abdominal Pain; Severe Stomach Ache; Abdominal Cramps; Surgical Abdomen)
by Amanda Barrett, MA
Definition
Causes
Risk Factors
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Definition
Acute abdomen is the medical term used for pain in the abdomen that usually comes on suddenly
and is so severe that one may have to go to the hospital. Acute abdominal pain can signal a
variety of more serious conditions, some of which require immediate medical care and/or
surgery.
Causes
There are a number of possible causes of acute abdomen. These may include:
Risk Factors
Factors that increase your risk of acute abdomen will depend on the cause.
Symptoms
The symptoms of acute abdomen have a variety of causes. If you experience any one of them,
see your physician.
Persistent, severe pain, swelling, and/or tenderness in the upper, middle, or lower
abdomen
Guarding—involuntary contraction of the abdominal muscles
Rigidity—when abdominal muscles are tense and board-like
Fever
Diagnosis
You will be asked for details about your pain, such as the exact location and duration. You will
also be asked about any additional symptoms you may be having such as bowel or urinary
symptoms. A medical history will be taken. You will be asked about any drugs or medications
you’ve taken. A physical exam will be done, including rectal and pelvic examinations.
Blood tests
Urine analysis
Your bodily structures may need to be viewed. This can be done with:
Ultrasound
CT scan
MRI scan
KUB (kidney, ureter, and bladder) x-rays
Barium x-rays
Angiography
Endoscopy
Treatment
You may be given pain relievers. However, many doctors may delay prescribing pain relievers,
since details of the pain can help find its cause. Do not take any medication such as Tylenol or
ibuprofen, and do not eat or drink until you have spoken with your doctor.
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Depending on the underlying
condition causing your acute abdomen, treatment options may include:
Medications
Diet or lifestyle changes
Advanced medical treatment such as surgery—may be required for the majority of severe
abdominal pains that last for at least six hours in previously healthy patients
Prevention
Depending on the underlying condition causing acute abdomen, prevention measures will vary.
Talk with your doctor about preventing conditions that cause acute abdomen.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your
physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY
HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have
regarding a medical condition.