Abdominal Pain
Pain the abdomen usually has a minor cause like mild food poisoning, although it can be a sign of underlying problems with organs in the abdominal cavity. Distension (widening) or obstruction of the intestine causes colic - when the casualty feels waves of pain, often making them double up in agony and vomit. If the appendix or intestine ruptures the contents can leak into the abdominal cavity, giving rise to the very serious painful condition peritonitus.
It is for this reason that appendicitus, inflammation of the appendix, requires urgent medical attention. Appendicitus is characterised by pain in the centre of the abdomen which may move to the right with time, nausea, vomiting, bad breath and fever.
It is for this reason that appendicitus, inflammation of the appendix, requires urgent medical attention. Appendicitus is characterised by pain in the centre of the abdomen which may move to the right with time, nausea, vomiting, bad breath and fever.
Recognition:
- The casualty complains of abdominal pain.
Aims:
- To relieve pain and discomfort.
- To get medical aid if necessary.
Treatment:
- Make the casualty comfortable. Prop them up if breathing s difficult. Provide a vomit bowl.
- Give the casualty a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel to place on their abdomen.
- If the pain is severe or occurs with fever and vomiting call a doctor. Do not allow the casualty to eat, drink or smoke in case hospital treatment is needed.
