Overview of Abdominal Pain
- Acute abdomen is the health term used for soreness in the abdomen that generally comes on unexpectedly and is so severe that one might have to go to the hospital.
- Acute abdominal pain can indicate to an array of more severe conditions, some of which need immediate medical assistance or surgery.
Causes of Abdominal Pain

There are a number of probable causes of acute abdomen. These might include:
- Cancer;
- Kidney stones;
- Hernia;
- GERD – acid reflux;
- Pancreatitis—swelling of the pancreas;
- Peptic ulcer;
- Intestinal blockage;
- Heart attack;
- Ischemia—insufficient, or blocked, flow of blood to one of the abdominal organs;
- Contagious diarrhea /abdominal swelling;
- IBS – Irritable bowel syndrome;
- Appendicitis—swelling of the appendix;
- Diverticulitis—swelling of tiny pouches that form in the large intestine;
- Crohn’s disease—inflammatory disease affecting the intestines;
- Gastroenteritis—tummy flu; and
- Pneumonia.
Risk Factors of Abdominal Pain
Factors that boost your risk of acute abdomen pain will be dependent on the cause.
Symptoms of Abdominal Pain
The symptoms of acute abdomen have a range of causes. If you experience any one of them, visit your doctor.
- Constant, severe pain, inflammation, and/or pain in the lower, middle, or upper abdomen
- Guarding—unintentional tightening of the abdominal muscles
- Inflexibility—when abdominal muscles are tight
- Fever
Diagnosis of Abdominal Pain
You will be asked for information about your pain, such as the precise position and period. You will also be asked about any added symptoms you might be having such as urinary symptoms. A medical record will be taken. You will be asked about any pills you’ve taken. A physical assessment will be completed.
Related Video On Abdominal Pain
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_byCHpQak3M