Acute abdominal pain is a condition familiar to many; however, it is not always taken seriously. But delays or incorrect actions can lead to serious consequences.
What exactly should be done before the arrival of medical personnel to alleviate suffering and avoid dangerous mistakes when experiencing severe abdominal pain? A clear algorithm of actions can save health and even life, explained doctor Elena Pavlova.
Reasons to Call an Ambulance
Abdominal pain is not just discomfort; it is a signal for help from the body, and your correct actions before the doctor arrives can prevent a catastrophe. The very concept of "acute abdominal pain" may indicate the need for urgent surgical assistance, but it could be appendicitis, peritonitis, intestinal obstruction, gynecological issues, etc. It is important not to obscure the symptoms before the ambulance arrives.
You should immediately call an ambulance when abdominal pain occurs along with additional symptoms of inflammation. There are certain complaints that should raise concern.
Sudden, intense pain that does not subside within 1-2 hours, but instead intensifies and is accompanied by a temperature rise above 38 degrees, repeated vomiting, especially with blood or dark contents, muscle tension in the abdomen when the abdomen is hard as a board, along with constipation and gas retention, or conversely, when there is diarrhea that is black, tarry, or contains bright red blood.
Additionally, weakness, dizziness, cold sweat, rapid heartbeat, and low blood pressure (signs of blood loss or shock), as well as yellowing of the skin or sclera may occur.
When the pain is localized in the lower right abdomen (suspected appendicitis), in women at the bottom (there may be a gynecological catastrophe — rupture of a cyst, ovarian apoplexy, ectopic pregnancy).
In pregnant women, any acute abdominal pain requires an emergency call.
While Waiting for the Ambulance
Ensure the patient is at rest and do not allow them to walk or strain when experiencing abdominal pain. Lay them in a comfortable position, preferably on their back with their legs slightly bent to relax the abdominal muscles. Remove any constricting clothing, belts, or tight elastics.
Measure temperature and blood pressure if possible; constantly monitor the condition and check pulse, pressure, and consciousness. Gather information for the doctor: when the pain started, its nature (acute, dull, cramp-like, constant), whether the pain moved, what it was accompanied by (nausea, changes in stool), and find out what the person ate the day before.
In case of vomiting, to prevent vomit from entering the airways, it is necessary to turn the head to the side. Small sips of still water can be given if there is no uncontrollable vomiting and suspicion of intestinal obstruction. Prepare documents: passport, insurance policy, and previous medical reports, if available, for the medical staff of the ambulance.
What Not to Do Before the Ambulance Arrives
Do not give painkillers, specifically analgin, ketorol, ibuprofen, antispasmodics, etc. This is the most common and dangerous mistake, as medications will obscure the clinical picture; the pain will subside, but inflammation and bleeding will remain. After pain relief, the abdomen may become soft, the pain may diminish, while the process in the abdomen, such as gangrenous appendicitis, will progress, leading to late diagnosis and peritonitis.
Do not apply heat, as this will exacerbate inflammation, bleeding, and may lead to rapid development of peritonitis. But cold should also be used with caution, as it may be uncomfortable.
Do not take laxatives or perform enemas, as this will catastrophically worsen the condition in cases of intestinal obstruction and inflammation like appendicitis and may lead to bowel rupture.
Do not take antibiotics, enzymes, or antacids — this will not solve the problem but will distort the picture and delay proper treatment.
Do not eat or drink excessively, as food or liquid intake may provoke vomiting, and in case of the need for emergency surgery under anesthesia, a full stomach increases the risk of contents entering the lungs during anesthesia; only moistening the lips or taking small sips of water is allowed.
Do not press or palpate the abdomen aggressively, as this may worsen damage — for example, in cases of perforated ulcers or organ rupture. Do not leave the patient alone and do not postpone calling the doctor until the morning.
What else is important: do not refuse hospitalization if it is suggested by the ambulance doctor, as many acute conditions require observation in a hospital and additional dynamic diagnostics. In cases of acute abdominal pain, time works against you, so it is important to follow the rules that will help doctors provide the correct assistance to the patient and reduce the number of complications.
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