Folliculitis

Abdominal point tenderness: What are the causes?

Fact Checked

Abdominal point tenderness is described as pressure on an area in the abdomen that triggers pain. It can also feel tender and sore. In case the removal of the pressure triggers pain, it is known as rebound tenderness. Take note that point tenderness is often an indication that there is something wrong with one or several organs in the area.

When to seek medical care

Conditions that cause abdominal point tenderness are considered as medical emergencies. It is vital to seek help if fever is also present. If left untreated, abdominal point tenderness can be dangerous.

Some conditions that can cause abdominal point tenderness include:

  • Appendicitis
    abdominal-point-tenderness
    Sensation of fullness in the upper abdomen especially after eating.
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Infections of the digestive tract
  • Twisted fallopian tube or pelvic inflammatory disease

What are the associated symptoms?

The symptoms that might arise along with abdominal point tenderness include:

  • Bloating
  • Diminished appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Fever
  • Abdominal pain
  • Missed periods in women
  • Constipation
  • Pale stools
  • Diarrhea
  • Jaundice
  • Distended abdomen
  • Fainting

Management

The treatment for abdominal point tenderness is based on the underlying cause. It is not advisable to use aspirin, naproxen or ibuprofen for the abdominal pain since this increases the risk for stomach ulcers and GI bleeding.

If the cause is appendicitis, intravenous antibiotics are given and some cases require appendectomy where the appendix is removed. Hernias, ectopic pregnancies and a twisted fallopian tube might also require surgery to fix any structural irregularities.

For vomiting and diarrhea, fluids and electrolytes might be given intravenously. These fluids help maintain the blood pressure and acid-base balance.

Home remedies

Once the main causes of abdominal point tenderness have been dealt with, you can ease the other symptoms with the following measures:

  • Apply a hot water bottle or heating pad to the sore area to relieve the soreness.
  • Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
  • Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top

The information posted on this page is for educational purposes only.
If you need medical advice or help with a diagnosis contact a medical professional

  • All firstaidreddeer.ca content is reviewed by a medical professional and / sourced to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

  • We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable websites, academic research institutions and medical articles.

  • If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please contact us through our contact us page.