Kõhuvalu

Kõhuvalu is the Estonian word for abdominal pain. It is a common symptom that can arise from a wide range of causes, affecting various organs within the abdominal cavity. The abdomen houses important organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys. Pain can be localized to a specific area or felt more generally throughout the abdomen.

The character of the pain can vary significantly. It might be sharp, dull, cramping, throbbing, or burning. The intensity can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Associated symptoms often accompany kõhuvalu and can help in determining the underlying cause. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fever, bloating, and changes in urine or stool.

Causes of abdominal pain are diverse. Digestive issues like indigestion, gastritis, peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are frequent culprits. Infections, such as gastroenteritis or appendicitis, can also lead to significant pain. Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones, or the pancreas, like pancreatitis, are also common causes. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones can manifest as abdominal pain, particularly in the lower abdomen or flank. Gynecological issues in women, such as menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can also cause abdominal discomfort. In some cases, more serious conditions like bowel obstruction or appendicitis require immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of kõhuvalu typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and potentially diagnostic tests like blood work, urine tests, imaging scans (ultrasound, CT scan, X-ray), or endoscopy. Treatment depends entirely on the identified cause. Mild cases may resolve on their own or with simple home care, while others require medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical intervention.