Intra-Abdominal
Intra-Abdominal Explained
Intra-abdominal is a medical term used to describe an area of the body located within the abdominal cavity, which is the space enclosed by the abdominal muscles and the diaphragm. It is within this space that important organs like the stomach, large and small intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, kidneys and reproductive organs can be found.
Signs and Symptoms of Intra-Abdominal Issues
Signs and symptoms of intra-abdominal complications can vary depending on the affected organ and the severity of the issue, but may include persistent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, fever and fatigue in extreme cases. It is important to speak with a doctor immediately if these symptoms are experienced.
Common Causes of Intra-Abdominal Complications
Intra-abdominal complications can have a number of different causes, including:
- Diverticulitis: an infection of small pouches in the wall of the intestine
- Gallbladder stones: a buildup of calcium and other types of material
- Gastroenteritis: inflammation of the stomach and intestines
- Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas
- Infection: infectious agents like bacteria, viruses and fungi can affect any of the abdominal organs
- Ulcer: a break or open sore in the lining of the stomach or intestines
- Hernia: an abnormal protrusion of organs through a tear in the abdominal wall
Diagnosis of Intra-Abdominal Issues
Diagnosis of intra-abdominal complications may involve the use of imaging, such as an X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Imaging can help to identify any potential issues, and other tests such as blood tests and endoscopies may also be necessary to determine a diagnosis.
Treatments for Intra-Abdominal Issues
Treatment for intra-abdominal complications can range from medication and lifestyle modifications to surgery, depending on the severity of the condition. For example, issues caused by infection or inflammation may be treated with antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications. However, if a hernia is present it may need to be operated on.
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of intra-abdominal issues can help to prevent any more serious issues from developing.