Rebound abdominal tenderness is a medical condition that is characterized by pain in the abdomen that is felt when the doctor releases pressure on the area. This condition is also known as Blumberg's sign, and it is often a sign of peritonitis, which is a serious inflammation of the abdominal cavity's lining. Rebound abdominal tenderness can also be a symptom of other medical conditions, such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, and ectopic pregnancy.
Rebound abdominal tenderness can be caused by various medical conditions. One of the most common causes is peritonitis, which is often caused by a bacterial infection. Other causes include appendicitis, diverticulitis, ectopic pregnancy, and bowel obstruction. In some cases, it can also be caused by trauma to the abdomen, such as a blow or a fall.
The symptoms of rebound abdominal tenderness may vary depending on the underlying cause. However, common symptoms include abdominal pain that is worse when pressure is applied and nausea and vomiting. In some cases, the pain may radiate to other parts of the body, such as the back or the groin. If left untreated, rebound abdominal tenderness can lead to serious complications, such as sepsis or abscess formation.
The treatment for rebound abdominal tenderness depends on the underlying cause. In cases of peritonitis, antibiotics are often prescribed to treat the bacterial infection. Surgery may also be necessary to remove any damaged tissue or organs. In cases of appendicitis, surgery is often necessary to remove the appendix. For diverticulitis, a liquid diet and antibiotics are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to remove the affected part of the colon. Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency, and immediate surgery is necessary to remove the fertilized egg.