Abdominal distension in a 79-year-old patient

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...

Introduction
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection.

Palpation is a crucial tactile examination method for assessing abdominal organs and detecting conditions like tenderness, distention, masses, or fluid. It involves both light and deep palpation techniques, each serving specific diagnostic purposes. Light palpation helps identify tenderness and other surface-level indicators, while deep palpation locates and assess abdominal masses and organ boundaries. A skilled professional can gather valuable insights through palpation, including evaluating...

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...

Percussion is a fundamental technique used to assess the liver, spleen, and abdominal organs by tapping the abdomen and interpreting the resulting sounds. This method helps identify fluid, distention, and masses through variations in sound, such as the high-pitched tympany of air-filled areas and the dullness of solid masses. Understanding how to percuss these organs provides valuable information for healthcare professionals in diagnosing conditions early.
Percussion
Percussion is an essential...

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...