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Gastrointestinal system symptoms are associated with a wide range of conditions. Such may include infective processes, inflammatory conditions, cancers and ulcers among others. Abdominal pain is something that most in the city of Greenbelt, MD, have had to deal with at one time or the other. More often than not, the cause of the problem is related to the underlying structures. In this article we look at the different types of pain that exist and how to deal with them.
The first step in identifying the cause of pain is its location; the point where it is most intense. If this area is the epigastric region, then the most likely origin is the stomach. The individual will most likely be suffering from peptic ulcer disease or gastritis or rarely, hepatitis. Centrally located pain is most often related to the intestines while that in the flanks may indicate a liver problem (on the right flank), a splenic disorder (left flank) or kidney issue (either side).
The character and pattern of the symptom can both be used in identifying the pain. For example, dull and diffuse pain is likely due to a condition affecting a solid internal organ. In contrast, if the symptom is localized and constricting in nature it is probably coming from a hollow or tubular structure such a ureter or the intestines. Another way of utilizing patterns is to study the associated symptoms. The presence of associated diarrhea, for example, suggests an infection.
A number of investigations need to be carried out to differentiate the various possibilities that exist. The nature of these investigations is greatly depended on the problem that is suspected. A septic screen is conducted when an infection is suspected. The screen includes, among other things, a full blood count. This is a determination of levels of cellular components in blood. Of greatest concern is the level of white blood cells. Urine, cerebrospinal spinal fluid are subjected to culture studies as part of this screen.
Radiological studies are also useful in the identification of the source of pain. For instance, X-rays (also known as plain radiographs) are an important tool in the diagnosis of intestinal obstruction. Typical findings include the presence of gaseous distension. Tumors within the abdominal cavity are best assessed using ultrasound, CT scans and MRI. Specimens may also be collected under the guidance of some of these radiological modalities.
The treatment varies depending on the underlying condition. A majority of cases can be managed expectantly or may resolve with the administration of over the counter analgesic agents. Antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents are usually administered when an infection is present. If the cause of symptoms is an ulcer then the most appropriate medication will be an antacid or mucosal protective agent. Metastatic tumors such lymphomas may benefit from chemotherapeutic drugs.
Surgical intervention has two main benefits. It may be used in making the diagnosis such as in the case of acute appendicitis, ectopic pregnancies, tumors and abscesses and may be a therapeutic intervention. Surgery not only allows the surgeon to see where the problem is through direct visualization but also ensures that the area is accessible for any interventions to be undertaken. Both open and laparoscopic approaches can be used.
Pain in the abdomen is fairly common. It is associated with a wide range of conditions. Identifying the problem requires that one gives a comprehensive medical history and undergoes a physical examination and investigations. Treatment is dependent on the problem that has been identified.
The first step in identifying the cause of pain is its location; the point where it is most intense. If this area is the epigastric region, then the most likely origin is the stomach. The individual will most likely be suffering from peptic ulcer disease or gastritis or rarely, hepatitis. Centrally located pain is most often related to the intestines while that in the flanks may indicate a liver problem (on the right flank), a splenic disorder (left flank) or kidney issue (either side).
The character and pattern of the symptom can both be used in identifying the pain. For example, dull and diffuse pain is likely due to a condition affecting a solid internal organ. In contrast, if the symptom is localized and constricting in nature it is probably coming from a hollow or tubular structure such a ureter or the intestines. Another way of utilizing patterns is to study the associated symptoms. The presence of associated diarrhea, for example, suggests an infection.
A number of investigations need to be carried out to differentiate the various possibilities that exist. The nature of these investigations is greatly depended on the problem that is suspected. A septic screen is conducted when an infection is suspected. The screen includes, among other things, a full blood count. This is a determination of levels of cellular components in blood. Of greatest concern is the level of white blood cells. Urine, cerebrospinal spinal fluid are subjected to culture studies as part of this screen.
Radiological studies are also useful in the identification of the source of pain. For instance, X-rays (also known as plain radiographs) are an important tool in the diagnosis of intestinal obstruction. Typical findings include the presence of gaseous distension. Tumors within the abdominal cavity are best assessed using ultrasound, CT scans and MRI. Specimens may also be collected under the guidance of some of these radiological modalities.
The treatment varies depending on the underlying condition. A majority of cases can be managed expectantly or may resolve with the administration of over the counter analgesic agents. Antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents are usually administered when an infection is present. If the cause of symptoms is an ulcer then the most appropriate medication will be an antacid or mucosal protective agent. Metastatic tumors such lymphomas may benefit from chemotherapeutic drugs.
Surgical intervention has two main benefits. It may be used in making the diagnosis such as in the case of acute appendicitis, ectopic pregnancies, tumors and abscesses and may be a therapeutic intervention. Surgery not only allows the surgeon to see where the problem is through direct visualization but also ensures that the area is accessible for any interventions to be undertaken. Both open and laparoscopic approaches can be used.
Pain in the abdomen is fairly common. It is associated with a wide range of conditions. Identifying the problem requires that one gives a comprehensive medical history and undergoes a physical examination and investigations. Treatment is dependent on the problem that has been identified.
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