Health in the Home

Southland Times, Issue 21835, 12 October 1932, Page 3

Health in the Home

SEVERE STOMACH ACHE. (By a Family Doctor.) Most of us some time or other are seized suddenly with a severe stomach ache which may not only be extremely painful but veiy frightening. The first point to decide is whether it is a simple stomach ache or whether it falls into the category known medically as the “acute abdomen,” which requires the urgent attention of the doctor. In simple stomach ache the pain tends to be relieved by “doubling oneself up,” and by the application of pressure and hot water bottles to the abdomen. The abdomen is not particularly tender and it is quite supple. The tongue is moist; vomiting tends to bring relief; and the bowels may be very loose.

In the much more serious condition the patient tends to lie very still, not doubled up; and pressure or even light touch upon the abdomen is extremely painful. The abdominal wall is often very rigid and immobile. The tongue is dry and vomiting may be persistent. The pulse is fast and weak, and generally the bowels are confined.

But none of these signs is invariably true; and if there is any doubt, or if the symptoms persist more than an hour or so, send for your doctor. For remember that the “acute abdomen”— which includes acute appendicitis—requires to be operated on as soon as possible, every hour being important.