Skip to content
Testmottagningen logo
en
sv
Testmottagningen logo

Abdomen

The abdomen is the central area between the rib cage and the pelvis that houses several of the body's most important organs. This is where digestion, detoxification, and the immune system take place, among other things.

Contents

Quick version

What is the abdomen?

The abdomen, or abdomen, is the body cavity between the thorax and the pelvis. It is surrounded by the abdominal wall and contains organs of the digestive system, urinary tract, and reproductive and immune systems.

Anatomy and structure

The abdomen is divided into upper, middle, and lower parts and four quadrants. It is surrounded by abdominal muscles, fatty tissue, and the peritoneum (peritoneum), which protects the internal organs in the abdomen.

Organs in the abdomen

The abdomen contains the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. The liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, urinary bladder, and internal genital organs depending on gender are also located in the abdomen. These work together for nutrient absorption, detoxification, and reproduction.

Function of the abdomen

The abdominal organs are responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, blood purification, urine production, immune functions, and hormone signaling. The abdomen is also a place where many diseases can occur.

Examination of the abdomen

In the case of abdominal complaints, palpation, auscultation, blood tests, and imaging diagnostics such as ultrasound, MRI of the abdomen, or computed tomography are used. The examination is directed by the location and nature of the symptoms.

Common causes of abdominal pain

Abdominal pain can be due to infections, inflammation, blockages, bleeding, tumors or functional disorders such as IBS. The exact cause is determined through clinical assessment together with a doctor.

Relevant symptoms

  • Pain or cramps in the stomach
  • Swelling or bloating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Changed bowel habits
  • Fever with infection

Related conditions and diagnoses

  • Appendicitis (appendicitis)
  • Gallstones
  • Kidney stones
  • Stomach ulcer
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Cirrhosis of the liver

Questions and answers

The area between the rib cage and the pelvis is considered the abdomen. It houses the digestive organs, urinary tract, and parts of the reproductive system, and is protected by the abdominal wall.

The abdomen contains the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs. The location of these organs in the abdomen varies depending on gender and body type.

Infections, inflammations, digestive problems, stones, bleeding or functional disorders such as IBS cause abdominal pain. A medical examination is required to determine the cause.

Upper abdominal pain is often related to the stomach, liver, or pancreas. Lower abdominal pain can be due to the intestines, urinary tract, or reproductive organs. The location helps in diagnosis.

You should seek medical attention immediately if you have sudden, severe, persistent or recurring pain, or if it is accompanied by fever, vomiting, blood in the stool or difficulty breathing.

Appendicitis, or appendicitis, is an acute inflammation of the appendix that often requires surgery. Common symptoms include pain in the lower right abdomen, fever, and nausea.

Doctors use their hands to feel for tenderness, listen with a stethoscope, take blood samples and may supplement with ultrasound, MR or X-rays to find the cause of the discomfort.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder with symptoms such as gas, cramps, and changes in bowel habits. It is not dangerous but can affect quality of life.

Temporary discomfort and bloating that often go away on their own are common with gas. Abdominal pain is more persistent and may indicate underlying medical conditions.

Yes, stress can affect bowel movements and cause cramps, bloating, or diarrhea. This is common in functional gastrointestinal problems like IBS.