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Abdominal Pain Diagnostics: What to Expect During Medical Tests
Published: Dec 14, 2023
Identifying the cause of abdominal pain often requires specific medical tests. Let's explore what these procedures entail.
Initial Assessments
When you visit a doctor for abdominal pain, the first step is usually a thorough physical exam. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any lifestyle factors that may contribute to pain. They may perform a physical examination to check for tenderness or swelling in the abdomen, which can help narrow down the potential causes.
Common Diagnostic Tests
If further investigation is needed, your doctor might order some tests. Blood tests can check for signs of infection or inflammation. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans provide a detailed look at the abdominal organs and can reveal issues like gallstones or appendicitis. In some cases, an endoscopy might be used to view the inside of the digestive tract.
Advanced Procedures
For complex cases, more advanced procedures may be necessary. A colonoscopy allows doctors to examine the large intestine for abnormalities. Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery, can help diagnose conditions inside the abdomen when other tests are inconclusive. These procedures are usually reserved for when less invasive tests don't provide clear answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
A thorough physical exam is usually the first step.
Yes, they can detect signs of infection or inflammation.
They provide detailed images of abdominal organs.
It's used to examine the large intestine for abnormalities.
A minimally invasive surgery to explore abdominal issues.
The Bottom Line
Diagnostic procedures are crucial for accurately identifying the cause of abdominal pain.
References
- Ray BS, Neill CL. Abdominal Visceral Sensation in Man. Ann Surg 1947; 126:709.
- Bentley FH. Observations on Visceral Pain: (1) Visceral Tenderness. Ann Surg 1948; 128:881.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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